Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder
Canon's top of the line standard definition MiniDV camcorder for 2008, the ZR-950, builds on the features of the 930, with the added benefit of still image capture. The 1.07Mp 1/6" CCD image sensor records beautiful video and stills every time you shoot while the 48x Advanced Zoom works to bring your subject up-close with no loss in image quality.
Smooth Zoom Control provides three preset speeds for professional looking zoom shots. The Quick Start function ensures that you'll never miss another once-in-a-lifetime shot again and the convenient joystick allows you to control playback, focus, exposure and menu functions. This camera also features a 2.7" LCD, Widescreen HR recording, PictBridge compatibility, an Image Stabilizer, a DIGIC DV processor and a built-in lens cap. If you crave the old-school tape format, with the ability to capture stills at an affordable price, then the ZR-950 is for you.
- MiniDV Recording
- Record your favorite moments right to MiniDV for the time-tested image quality that keeps the faithful coming back for more.
- 48x Advanced Zoom
- Canon's 48x Advanced Zoom extends the power of the 37x optical zoom for the longest Zoom available from the company. What's even better is that there is no loss of image quality, leaving you with clear, accurate video and stills in every shot.
- 1.07Mp 1/6" CCD Image Sensor
- This 1.07Mp 1/6" CCD image sensor gives you stunning footage every time you shoot.
- Still Image Capture
- Take 1Mp still images with the ZR-950 and store them to SD/SDHC cards for quick upload to your computer for emailing, printing or sharing on sites such as YouTube.
- Smooth Zoom Control
- Smooth Zoom Control gives you three preset zoom speeds to choose from for smooth, steady shots.
- Quick Start
- Never miss the moment again because you're waiting for your camcorder to start up. Pressing the Quick Start button once keeps your camera in sleep mode. When you're ready to start recording just hit the button again and begin recording in under a second.
- PictBridge
- Share and print your still images with the touch of the button using a PictBridge compatible printer via the included USB cable.
- 2.7" LCD Display & Widescreen HR Recording
- Widescreen HR recording captures your video in full 16:9. Using the 2.7" LCD monitor you can compose in the same widescreen format, leaving no doubt in your mind that what you saw on the screen is what was recorded.
- Image Stabilizer
- The Image Stabilizer on the ZR-950 gives you a steady shot even when you're panning and zooming or shooting telephoto.
- LCD Video Light
- Use the LCD video light for low-light situations that could use a little more punch. The extra light will produce better color and detail in typically hard to record conditions.
- Joystick
- The convenient joystick allows you to control playback, focus, exposure, and menu options.
- DIGIC DV Image Processor
- Canon's DIGIC DV image processor gives your video superb color and accuracy.
- Level Shot & Grid Markers
- The Level Shot Control button on the ZR-950 produces a horizontal mark, allowing you to line up level shots. The Grid marker also helps you to even out tough shots. Both markers can appear in color, making it even easier for you to compose.
- Built-in Lens Cover
- Never lose your lens cap again with Canon's built-in lens cover. When the camera turns on the cover opens and when it turns off it closes.
- Multi-Angle Wireless Remote
- The included Multi-Angle wireless remote allows you to control the camcorder from a distance, instead of just right next to the camera. Now when you want to be the in the shot too you can!
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 1/6" 1.07Mp CCD |
| Lens |
Focal Length=2.6-96.2mm f-stop/2.0-5.2 |
| Zoom |
48x Advanced Zoom 37x Optical 2000x Digital |
| Filter Size | N/A |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Format | MiniDV |
| Audio | PCM digital sound 16 bit (48kHz/2 channels), 12 bit (32kHz) |
| Image Stabilization | Electronic |
| Lux |
Night mode: 2 lux Easy mode: 8 lux |
| Recording Media | MiniDV |
| Recording Time |
MiniDV SP: 80 minutes LP: 120minutes (80 minute cassette) |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Display Size | 2.7" |
| Viewfinder | 0.35" widescreen |
| Camera Features | |
|---|---|
| Manual Controls | Exposure, focus, white balance |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Accessory Shoe | No |
| Built-in Light/Flash |
Yes - LCD video light No - flash |
| Digital Still Mode | |
|---|---|
| Still Recording Media | SD/SDHC cards |
| Resolution | 1MP |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Inputs | FireWire |
| Output |
FireWire A/V out USB (mini-B) |
| Microphone Input | No |
| Headphone Jack | No |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Languages | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Compatible Operating Systems | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Power Requirements | 100-240VAC, 50/60Hz |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.7 x 5.0 x 3.2" (57 x 92 x 119mm) |
| Weight | 13.4 oz (380g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 15 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
93%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Comfortable to operate (13)
- Great picture quality (11)
- Great features (10)
- Simple controls (10)
- Durable (8)
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel (10)
- Home movies (7)
- Family (5)
- Movies/short films (4)
- Editing (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual user (9)
Most Liked Positive Review
A wonderful camera for the price
We just had our first child, and bought this camera as a way to record bits of her life. I've found it to be very user-friendly and capable of doing what I wanted it ...Read complete review
We just had our first child, and bought this camera as a way to record bits of her life. I've found it to be very user-friendly and capable of doing what I wanted it for. It takes beautiful video and still images, and the sound is good for my purposes. One minor problem I didn't anticipate... I can't take still images at really high resolution, so we won't be able to get any large reprints of images. But 4x6's seem to be just fine. Great camera for the price.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Good for MiniDV
It's tough to beat the price/quality ratio on this camcorder. Ease of use is top notch.
There are a few drawbacks, though. When the screen is closed against the camer...Read complete review
It's tough to beat the price/quality ratio on this camcorder. Ease of use is top notch.
There are a few drawbacks, though. When the screen is closed against the camera it stays turned on (either in playback or recording mode). My other complaint is occasionally you can hear the tape mechanism on the recording itself during playback. Other than that it's a pretty nice inexpensive camcorder.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 15 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-15
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Versatile
Cons
- Poor Battery Life
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Editing
- Travel
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
Use the camcorder day-in and day-out in freezing conditions (processing floor) and also the hot areas foundries.
Not had a single instance of problem
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
Cons
Best Uses
- Editing
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
I use it for storm chasing because I need a cheaper camera when out in the field. It is very easy to use and edit video however the stabilization is very poor compared to Sony's!
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
I bought this camcorder to capture video of our three kids as they grow. It's size is perfect as it easily fits in your hand and is very light. At the same time, it hasn't been compressed so much that the controls are difficult to use; instead, everything is very easy to use and understand. The quality of the video is great as well!
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
We purchased the camera to film our kid's sporting events and special family occasions. I like the size and it is very easy to use. The only thing I would change is to have the eye piece pull out so your nose isn't bumping into the battery.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Versatile
Cons
- Low light function not go
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
I am getting used to the functions. alot to know, easy to use. LCD is a little dark but i will read to see if that can be adjusted. Not really for night use. as indicated.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
We just had our first child, and bought this camera as a way to record bits of her life. I've found it to be very user-friendly and capable of doing what I wanted it for. It takes beautiful video and still images, and the sound is good for my purposes. One minor problem I didn't anticipate... I can't take still images at really high resolution, so we won't be able to get any large reprints of images. But 4x6's seem to be just fine. Great camera for the price.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
The camera is great, just what we wanted and ordered[...]
Pros
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
A fine camcorder with two exceptions,#1 there are no threads at the lens area to put a UV filter on or other lens attachments. #2 the joy stick to operate the play back and other functions is NOT easy to operate,I would rather have a few seperate buttons to do the play back,ff and other functions.It also puts un-needed preassure on the LCD screen holding hinge
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
Great camcorder for the casual user. Small and lightweight. Video and audio quality is good for this camcorder's price point. The buttons and menus are intuitive.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Features
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
- Flimsy Construction
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
- Family
- Travel
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
How you use the product: This camera works well for capturing home videos and documenting special family events.
Things that are great about it: This is a very compact, low cost solution for those not wanting to spend the money on a higher quality camcorder. Easy to use playback interface.
Things that aren't so great about it: Limited in video and audio quality. No external mic input. Plastic feeling. Longer life battery is very bulky.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Simple Controls
Cons
Best Uses
- Family
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
- Travel
- Weddings
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
Pros:
1. The picture quality in day light.
2. The color quality of the captured video.
3. Zoom
4. Price
Cons:
1. Expected better picture quality in low light or indoor light.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Family
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
The camera literally came in the day my wife gave birth. I took the whole box to the hospital, plugged it in to charge and was very easy to use without even reading the instructions. Buy an extra battery and seperate charger. The negative is to charge a battery the camera needs to be plugges in so therefore can not be in use. The battery that comes with it lasts a long time though so don't believe if they say it only lasts 20 minutes.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Great Picture Quality
- Simple Controls
Cons
- No auto off
- Tape mechanism noise
Best Uses
- Family
- Travel
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
It's tough to beat the price/quality ratio on this camcorder. Ease of use is top notch.
There are a few drawbacks, though. When the screen is closed against the camera it stays turned on (either in playback or recording mode). My other complaint is occasionally you can hear the tape mechanism on the recording itself during playback. Other than that it's a pretty nice inexpensive camcorder.
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
Great for the business I am starting and for personal use. Exceeded my expectations.
Tech support was really helpful in choosing acesories but did not tell me I would need to also purchase a firewire cord to download vidoes (seperate from USB cord that came with camera).
I think this is standard with most camcorders?
- How long have you owned it:
- One-to-three months
Pros
- Comfortable to Operate
- Durable
- Editors Camcorder
- Great Features
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Simple Controls
- Versatile
Cons
- No Mic Input
Best Uses
- Editing
- Family
- Movies/Short Films
- Special Events
- Sports
- Travel
Comments about Canon ZR-950 MiniDV Camcorder:
Works like any camcorder so its easy to use. Has a great amount of zoom and more than 1 mp for capturing good quality video. Recommended for those who edit on Macs. One down side is the fact that there isnt a mic input for the ZR950.
- How long have you owned it:
- A month or less
Displaying reviews 1-15
- Brochure (PDF 1.3mb)
- Instruction Manual (PDF 5.3mb)
Media
Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
- Price: $2.39
Batteries & Power
Don't get caught without power, always have a spare battery.
- Price: $47.90
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $14.95
On-Camera Lights
Adjust the lighting for virtually any indoor and many outdoor applications.
- Price: $9.95
What's in the Box
- BP-2L5 Battery Pack
- Compact Power Adapter CA-590
- Stereo Video Cable STV-250N
- Wireless Controller WL-D85
- USB Cable
- Digital Video Solutions Disc for Windows & Mac
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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