Thursday, August 13, 2009

Canon VIXIA HF200 HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 15x Optical Zoom Decide Now


Canon HF200 is what I bought for Vegas trip as a primary documenting device replacing my bulky Nikon D300.
I was also considering Samsung HMX-H104 HD SSD Flash Memory Camcorder w/16GB memory &10x Optical Zoom.
Samsung puts more functional features in HMX-H104, such as time lapse recording, slow motion capture..etc However, proven image quality of the previous model, HF100 was the main reason why I decided to go for Canon HF200.

My impression about the image quality is similar to what others say: After setting the image quality to MXP, the video out of this tiny camcorder is really stunning on my 1080p HDTV. The indoor image is just acceptable. I would suggest using built-in video light for a really dark place.

I find video editing challenging. However it is not unique to HF200 but common for all AVCHD camcorders. I guess AVCHD cams are ahead of their time because I need more powerful computer and still pricey Blueray recorder to nicely complement this AVCHD cam. Having this said, I think Canon HF200 is a forward looking investment, that can survive and serve better for years to come thanks to its fine image quality.

To sum up:
[Things I found personally appealing]
* impressive image quality (24Mbps)
* tiny size & build quality (a lot easier to carry around than my usual camera outfit)
* effective optical image stabilizer
* Mic jack and Mini Advanced Shoe (my outfit can grow flexible with more optional accessories if I wish to)

[Things I want to be improved]
* more wide-angle (40mm-equivalent in 35mm film photography at the lowest zoom setting. I bought Kenko SGW-05 Wide Angle Conversion Lens)
* more features such as time lapse & slow motion capture
* better low light image quality (maybe due to small sensor size)
* accompanying software (less than adequate; a complete mismatch to the camcorder itself) Get more detail about Canon VIXIA HF200 HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 15x Optical Zoom.

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