Canon VIXIA HF S11 HD Dual Flash Memory Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom - 2009 MODEL Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I did months of research before deciding on the S11, and my biggest priorities were superb picture quality then durability. Because flash camcorders don't have moving parts like a hard drive, flash memory is less prone to damage, uses less power, and reads/writes faster. This is very expensive, but it will last for many, many years while vividly capturing my most important memories with family. HD is the way to go.
The picture quality is great, and you can easily find HD examples on YouTube to preview if you're curious to see how this measures up. Video capture at night isn't as bad as what I had read. I can easily make out images in my night time shots albeit some detail was lost (as expected with any consumer camcorder). An added bonus is that I can snap photos while in video mode, so I don't have to pack my point-n-shoot camera too. This has a built-in 8MP camera.
If you need more than the 64GB of internal memory, you can expand by purchasing an external SDHC card. Canon says to use a minimum Class 4 SDHC card for video, but a lot of people who own flash camcorders seem to have better results with Class 6 cards (faster write speeds mean you won't miss as many frames during recording). Keep in mind that 64gb can capture a minimum of 5 hours 55 minutes in MXP mode and up to 24 hrs 30 minutes in LP mode.
There is NO electronic viewfinder which can be a problem since the screen is hard to see when you're in super dark or super bright settings.
Unfortunately, your investment won't end with the camera.
You will have EXTRA stuff to buy:
* Extra battery - the one that comes included lasts 1.5 hours at best; I recommend Canon BP-827 * Lithium Ion Battery Pack for Vixia HG 20/21, HF11/10 & 100 Camcorders
* Battery charger - otherwise you can only charge the battery while it's in the camcorder so you have to stop filming while charging
* HDMI cable
* Canon Remote Control Adapter RA-V1 for Vixia HF S11 Camcorders to access the camera's functions if you heavily use a tripod
* Video editing software - Adobe Premiere seems to be pretty popular for AVCHD video.
I travel often, so it's not always practical for me to carry a lot of SDHC cards, and I wanted something that would be more user friendly for my folks to use. It's crazy that Canon charges so much more for 32GB extra memory over the S10, so if budget is an issue, look into the HF S10 (32GB internal memory) or HF S100 (no internal memory).
The S11 is very similar to the HF S10 and HF S100 models. The only differences I can tell:
- 64gb internal memory (main reason this model costs more)
- Dynamic SuperRange OIS (which is supposed to make for better video while walking and at wide angles)
- Compatible with Canon's RA-V1 remote adapter that you plug into the accessory shoe to provide a LANC (wired remote) terminal
- Extra mode for low light scene

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The VIXIA HF S11 Dual Flash Memory camcorder takes Cannon's solid reputation for optical excellence, advanced image processing and technological innovation in high definition camcorders and brings it to the next level. The VIXIA HF S11 offers a large 64GB of internal memory, recording up to 24 hours, 30 minutes (LP mode), approximately 6 hours recording at the highest quality (MXP mode), and compatibility with removable SDHC cards. And the video and photos you record will be as brilliant as they can be - with the Canon Exclusive 8.59 Megapixel CMOS Image Sensor and advanced image processor, DIGIC DV III. What's more, the VIXIA HF S11 allows you to record at up to 24Mbps, the highest bit rate in AVCHD format, for the highest quality image. The VIXIA HF S11 is packed with Canon Exclusive features - such as the Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens, sophisticated Genuine Canon Face Detection, Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization as well as Advanced Video Snapshot Mode and a host of new control and creative options. All of which make it possible for you to Shoot, Capture, See and Be HD. 24Mbps Recording Canon Exclusive - Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization Canon Exclusive - Instant AF (Auto Focus) Canon Exclusive - Genuine Canon Face Detection Advanced Auto Exposure System 24p Cinema Mode 30p Progressive Mode Built-in 8.0 Megapixel Digital Camera Superb Shooting Control Canon Exclusive - 2.7 Multiangle Vivid Widescreen LCD Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe Terminal Advanced Video Snapshot Mode Night Scene Mode Optional Canon RA-V1 Remote Control Adapter Intelligent Lithium-ion Battery HDMI Terminal Microphone Terminal with Manual Audio Level Control Includes Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software Television System NTSC Video Recording system MPEG4-AVC / H.264 Image Sensor 1/2.6-inch CMOS, RGB Primary Color Filter Total Pixels Approx. 8.59 M

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Canon VIXIA HFS10 HD Dual Flash Memory w/32GB Internal Memory & 10x Optical Zoom - 2009 MODEL Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have owned a small wedding videography company for 5 years and after using this camera for a week I am incredibly pleased with it. If you want the smallest camcorder you can get without sacrificing video quality in any way, than this is the camcorder for you. I am amazed at how small this thing is while still having a professional grade lens. This is the same Canon lens as on their GL2 which is probably the most popular entry level professional camcorder ever (which I have owned for a few years).
Pros:
1.) Professional camera lens with superb HD video quality (even in low light situations). I cannot express enough how amazing the pictures look.
2.) 32 GB of internal Flash memory (This is the only difference from the HFS100)
A.) Flash memory is instant. No waiting for tapes to wind or hard drives to spin.
B.) Flash memory helps keep the camera small.
C.) Flash memory protects data from being lost due to the camera being dropped or hit (a real problem with hard drive cameras).
3.) The still picture quality, even with the built in flash, is unbelievable for a camcorder. I feel like I am shooting with my Rebel XTi.
4.) I love the auto open and close lens cover. It only opens when you are actually shooting. If the camera is off or if you are reviewing it immediately closes.
5.) Menus are very easy to navigate.
Cons:
1.) Doesn't come with an HDMI cable. Since it doesn't take a normal sized HDMI cable I think there is no excuse for that.
2.) Doesn't come with a battery charger. You either have to spend $50 to get one or recharge batteries using the camcorder itself.
3.) $200 more than the HFS100 for only 32GB of internal storage is way too much. Should have only cost an extra $100. Unless you need to be able to record more than 2.5 hours of shooting without changing SDHC cards, then get the HFS100 because 32GB class 6 SDHC cards only cost $100.
4.) Only comes with the BP-809 battery which doesn't even last an hour. So you will need to buy the BP-827 which costs another $150. The BP-827 does stick out from the back just a slight bit, but not even an inch and is totally not noticeable nor does it add any real weight.
5.) 10X optical zoom is a little slim for my liking. I am used to 20X.
This camcorder is basically a professional lens barrel with an LCD on the side which gives you the best picture quality possible while keeping the size incredibly small. I cannot encourage you enough to get this camcorder though I would advise the HFS100 over this to save a little money. Remember, the HFS100 is the identical camcorder except it does not have internal memory.
Canon VIXIA HFS100 HD Flash Memory Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom


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Canon's top-of-the-line, new VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memorycamcorder gives you everything you expect from Canon! It has apowerful, new 8.59-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor plusCanon's latest DIGIC DV III Image Processor. Add a Genuine Canon10x HD Video Lens and the highest bit rate in AVCHD, and you've got acamcorder that delivers spectacularly realistic HD video and photos.The VIXIA HF S10 features 32GB of built-in Flash memory that recordsup to 12 hours of HD video.You can also record to removable SDHCmemory cards for quick and easy sharing. The Canon VIXIA HF S10camcorder lets you shoot like a pro with assist functions including newzebra patterns, color peaking, a Custom Key and Dial, and shootingmodes including 24p Cinema Mode for video that looks like a holidayblockbuster. The VIXIA HF S10 incorporates some of Canon's mostexciting new functions, including Genuine Canon Face Detection for perfectfocus and exposure even with faces looking down or sideways, Pre-Record that captures video 3 seconds before you press the record button,and the new Video Snapshot Mode for saving your memories as aseries of 4-second video clips set to music. Shoot extraordinary videoand photos with the VIXIA HF S10. Canon USA 1-year limited warrantyincluded.

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Canon VIXIA HF S20 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder - 2010 MODEL Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am a professional photographer that needed a camcorder for our first baby on the way. I wanted a camcorder that produced outstanding full 1080P HD video, good optical stabilizer and ease of use. Canon delivers. I was blown away by the quality of the video shot in full auto mode. The colors, vibrance and razor sharp focus completely convinced me that my hard earned cash was well spent. The dynamic stabilizer is amazing. At wide angle, I shot a video one handed while walking my dog. Usually this results in severe motion sickness. Reviewing the video was incredible- very smooth, no jarring. At full telephoto (10x) some movement was noticeable....until you press the Powered IS button located on the bottom left of the LCD. I call it my virtual tri-pod. The Powered IS locks down the image. Completely acceptable, but more, amazing how well it works.
The LCD panel is gorgeous. It's a mini HD monitor. It's a touch panel that works. You can control everything from exposure, focus, aperature, shutter speed, video gain, and more. What's really cool is the Touch and Track feature. Say you have someone or something (works on objects too) that you want to keep in focus and property expose- just touch the person or thing on the LCD and a box forms around it. It's so sensitive you can touch someone's eye and the camera puts focus priority on the eye, vs the nose. This even works with my dog. Really impressed by that.
As for ease of use, the Auto mode is exactly that. Turn it on, point it and record. The camera is very intelligent and almost always selects the best settings for your subject. This is perfect for someone that doesnt really know a ton about photography/videography but wants to be able to capture life's precious moments. For more advanced users, there are various settings that will give you hours of fun playing with.
It has a pop-up video light which works well in a pinch. The hot shoe allows for more sophisticated lights and mics.
One gripe I do have is the battery performance. True, the LCD eats power, but come on, the standard battery only lasts 40-50 mins tops. Canon should include a larger capacity battery. Canon should also include a wall charger so when you shell out more money for a bigger battery, you can charge that while still using your beautiful camcorder.
So, to sum up, you will not be disapointed with the quality and ease of use of this camera. Make sure you get a bigger battery and getting a Hoya filter to protect your HD lens is a great idea.

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Canon's VIXIA HF S20 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder, with a 32GB internal flash drive and two SD memory card slots, offers Canon's most sophisticated feature set to date - blurring the line between consumer and professional. Canon's superlative proprietary imaging technologies help deliver video and 8.0 megapixel photos with incredible detail and lifelike color. Touch & Track allows you to achieve sharp focus and precise exposure for any subject, simply by touching the generous 3.5" High Resolution (922,000 dot) Touch Panel LCD. Native 24p Mode perfectly matches the frame rate of film. And 5.1-Channel Surround Sound ensures your audio complements the stunning realism of your video.FEATURES:Flash Memory - The VIXIA HF S20 can record up to 12 hours of the most crisp, high definition video possible, with a 32GB internal flash drive. It is also equipped with two SD memory card slots, but it gets even better. With Relay Recording, the camcorder automatically switches video recording from the internal drive to the next available SD memory card, when the memory becomes full. It will be easier than ever to capture that late game play or the exact moment those first steps are taken.Stunning Image Quality - A Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens delivers unsurpassed image quality and a smooth background for professional-looking results. The Canon Exclusive 1/2.6" 8.59-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor captures video at 1920 x 1080 resolution and photos with astonishing detail, while Canon's Exclusive DIGIC DV III Image Processor provides the ultimate in color and imaging performance, with enhanced reproduction of difficult to capture purple and blue tones. Exceptionally lifelike tone and detail are captured thanks to 24Mbps Recording, which offers the highest bit rate in AVCHD. Even when shooting in extended telephoto range, the VIXIA HF S20's built-in 1.7x Digital Tele-converter retains excellent image quality. The VIXIA HF S20 not only captures images in Full HD

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