HomeCamera AccessoriesCanon VIXIA HFS100 HD Flash Memory Camcorder |
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 Great camcorder, but one nagging thing... Nov 01, 2009
The camcorder is great. It fits easily into the palm of my (large) hand, the controls are laid out intuitively, and it's easy to figure out how to start using it - without even reading the manual (I'll do that later).
There is one thing that I thought was wrong with it and I was about to return it to Amazon but then did some searching online. The problem is a very distracting rattling sound when holding the camera. An online search of additional reviews revealed that this happens only when the camera is not recording (true), such as when the camera is off (true). Oddly, no one posted anything about this on Amazon. I suspect this has something to do with image stabilization, but it is so noticeable, you'll likely think something is broken insider your camera. It is very, very strange and disconcerting after spending this much on a camcorder. If they would fix that (and lower the price), it would be perfect.
I agree with others about the battery charger. It seems like a cheap attempt to get you to spend more money. Well that's not going to happen, Canon.
 Utterly Amazing Oct 23, 2009
The Vixia HF100 is truly an amazing camera. I knew when I bought it that I would be impressed by it, but I had no idea just how great this thing would be. The image quality is amazing. The photo quality is on par with my Nikon D50. It's tiny, I can carry it around in my old point&shoot camera case. The battery life isn't stellar, but if you get a Canon BP-827 Lithium Ion Battery Pack for Vixia HG 20/21, HF11/10 & 100 Camcorders, that problem goes away for good.
I record onto a 16gb SD card, and I've never found that I didn't have enough space to film an event. Just drop from highest quality to high quality-17mbps, and you can easily get 2.5 hours on a 16gb card.
The features on the camera are similar to those on a DSLR. You can adjust the white balance, ISO level, shutter speed, and lots more. Or just leave it on auto and have it work itself out for you.
The one major problem I found with the camera is that it has to be plugged into the wall in order to transfer video to a computer. Removing the SD card and plugging that into the computer directly won't work, because of the cryptic file structure. This is a bummer, since I wouldn't need to carry the power cable with me otherwise. Still, not enough to keep me from absolutely recommending this camera to everybody.
1 of 1 found the following review helpful:
It rocks - buy it. Oct 21, 2009
It's really an amazing camera. It's Pro-sumer, so if you're a true Pro, you need to spend some extra money, this camera won't do all the things the real Pros want, but if you're on the "I am a gadget freak" side of the consumer space - this is your new toy.
I am the snobbiest gadget freak of them all - the absolutely king-pin nose in the air, research for months before making a decision, haggle over dollars and cents kind of person - this camera rocks.
Get the extra battery, get the external DM100 mic, grab a case from LowePro, and get a couple of 16GB Class 4 cards. All this on Amazon and paid less than the "package" prices advertised from camera companies.
1 of 2 found the following review helpful:
Great camera with some minor design issues Oct 10, 2009
Canon VIXIA HFS100 HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom
Ok, I needn't repeat the accolades already laid on the VIXIA HF S100. I agree with most of them. I especially appreciate the still camera's high resolution. I think Canon has missed a few things, however.
I would like a way to add a stronger flash for stills. There is no hot-shoe or PC socket.
The socket for connecting the AC charger is slightly recessed and is equipped with a permanently mounted protector cover. This makes it very difficult to insert (or remove) the L-shaped plug from the charger. A straight plug would work better.
My biggest complaint is with the camera's side-grip. I simply cannot use it. I have to use two hands when shooting. Of course, I know that's a better approach anyway, but there are times when it's not practical. Canon could either lengthen the adjustable strap by an inch (or more) and/or raise the attachment points for each end of the strap. I can actually adjust the strap so it works with my hand but then it isn't long enough to still fit under the Velcro to lock it into place. Raising it would also help in accessing the connections under the grip.
I too have issues with the lens cover which works like eye-lids on springs. I chose to add a UV filter and a clip-on lens-cap for extra security when transporting the camera.
The instructions seem to say that you cannot use the camera with the older NTSC (non-HD) TV. I think it works fine using the provided AV cord.
4 of 4 found the following review helpful:
Fantastic camcorder Oct 03, 2009
My previous camcorder was a Sony purchased about 8 years ago and using miniDV tapes. Needing to upgrade, I wanted a camcorder that would record HD and liked the option of using memory cards. I was persuaded to buy the Canon Vixia HFS100 after reading some excellent reviews about it. I have had this now for over a month and suffice to say it is indeed EXCELLENT. The following is my experience with the HFS 100 over the past 6 weeks.
While researching this camcorder I found a few consistent critiques, which bothered me at that time. These were:
1. Lack of an optical viewfinder
2. Poor performance in low light
3. A clicking sound as the lens cap does not close fully and
4. Complexity of the menu.
My take on these 4 points:
1. The viewfinder - not a problem for me. I like the idea of viewing on the screen to shoot. I find it more easy and less cumbersome than squinting through a narrow optical viewfinder anyway.
2. Next the low light - This was the one critique I was most concerned about before purchasing the HFS100. After using it, I am not sure if the reviews I read were written by people who did not know how to use the menu options, or there are some defective pieces about. I had absolutely no problems with low light. There is a convenient night shooting mode that works very well indoors, and there is a flash light that pops up to increase illumination when needed. Shooting indoors and outdoors, for me at least, has been without any issues.
3. It is true that there is a clicking sound, but it really did not bother me. I was more thankful that the lens automatically closed itself after every shoot and thus protected the lens.
4. Finally the menu - anyone who has used a digital camera and can navigate menus, will not have any difficulty. In the interest of disclosure, I have a Canon SLR camera, and found the menu options extremely easy to navigate and use, esp as they were very similar to my SLR camera menus. The menu is very well designed and practical to use. The options are many and makes the process of shooting more appealing. or those who may not be so concerned with the multiple choices, there are simple shooting modes. If you are in the habit of navigating menus with SLR cameras, this should be a cakewalk.
Having discussed and given my take on the often quoted negatives, let me switch to positives.
1. WEIGHT: It is an INCREDIBLY LIGHT camcorder and a joy to use.
2. VIDEO: This is what I purchased the camcorder for! The video image clarity and range of colors are simply STUNNING and to be seen to be believed.
3. BATTERY: The battery snaps easily in place, is perfectly flush with the camera (yes, even the backup battery) and has a decent lifespan. I would recommend a second battery though. Regarding charging, I find it quite convenient charging on the camcorder itself.
4. MEMORY CARD SLOT: Loading and unloading memory cards into the camcorder are very easy. I had a bad experience with one of the Transcend cards I purchased though - it failed after one use and I lost a lot of precious memories.
5.DOWNLOADING: All I have to do is hook it up into a USB cardreader and plug it into my Macbook (Leopard OS), open up iMovie and the whole thing pretty much downloads itself in high-def - I absolutely love the convenience of the whole thing.
Having never owned a Canon camcorder before, I found everything about the HFS 100 superb. It is clear that Canon has taken time to think over all the details and has made a camcorder that is great in quality, ease of use and convenience. Overall, I rate this camcorder very highly after 6 weeks of use, and am absolutely delighted with my purchase. I would recommend it without hesitation.
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