Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder
-
Discontinued
Canon's VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder puts 1920 x 1080 HD recording and a multitude of other features at your fingertips. The HF S21 captures up to 24 hours of HD video to the camera's 64GB internal flash memory, and lets you store even more footage to optional SD/SDHC memory cards, including Eye-Fi memory cards, using the dual SD memory card slots. In addition to video recording, the HF S21 also captures 8MP stills, and hosts a number of settings and functions to enhance your photo experience.
The heart of the HF S21 is comprised of an 8.59MP CMOS sensor and Canon's DIGIC DV III Image Processor. The two work together to capture HD video in 24Mbps AVCHD. The camcorder also relies on its Canon HD Video Lens with 10x optical zoom and Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization. Rounding out the set of core tools for image capture would be Canon's generous 3.5" High Resolution Touch Panel LCD Screen and a 0.27" color viewfinder, giving you options for how you want to film. This wide LCD not only gives you a platform on which to compose and play back shots, but it also uses Canon's Touch & Track which lets you hone in any subject for precise focus and exposure.
Other noteworthy aspects of the HF S21 include the option to record in Native 24p mode, 24p Cinema mode, or 30p Progressive mode (24p and 30p Progressive modes record at 60i). The camcorder also features microphone and headphone terminals, and a built-in video light, as well as a built-in flash. You'll also benefit from the Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe which allows attachment of optional Canon video lights or microphones.
When it comes to the various user-friendly features that help take the guesswork out of recording the HF S21 is loaded. Use Instant AF, Smart Auto, and Face Detection, among others, to get just the right shot. And when it comes time to edit and upload your video or still images Canon's Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software helps you every step of the way with everything from making hard copies of your footage to transferring and trimming.
- Flash Memory Recording
-
The VIXIA HF S21 allows you to record up to 24 hours of video to a 64GB internal flash drive or up to 2 removable SD memory cards. With Relay Recording, the camcorder automatically switches video recording from the internal drive to the SD memory card when the memory becomes full. There's no need to worry about running out of recording time during a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime shot.
You'll also have the flexibility of copying video from your VIXIA HF S21's internal drive to the removable SD memory card. That makes it easy to insert the card into your computer or HDTV's card reader and view your recorded footage immediately.
The advantages of flash memory go beyond the added recording time. You'll also appreciate the quick response time, because there are no moving parts. In addition, when you review, you'll have quick access to your footage. Another plus is the VIXIA HF S21's low power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. And if your HF S21 happens to slip, or you accidentally knock it against something, you'll be happy to know that flash memory makes your camcorder more shock-resistant than other recording storage systems. It also minimizes the chance of data loss if there is damage to your recording media or to the moving parts found in other camcorders
- Stunning HD Image Quality
- A Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens delivers excellent image quality, while the Canon Exclusive 1/2.6" 8.59MP HD CMOS Image Sensor captures video at 1920 x 1080 resolution and photos with astonishing detail, while the Canon Exclusive DIGIC DV III Image Processor provides impressive color and imaging performance, with enhanced reproduction of difficult to capture purple and blue tones. Exceptionally life-like tone and detail are captured thanks to 24Mbps Recording, which offers the highest bit rate in AVCHD. The VIXIA HF S21 not only captures images in HD, but records and outputs at 1920 x 1080 as well, so you get Full HD from lens to screen
- 3.5" High Res Touch Panel LCD Screen
- The VIXIA HF S21 features a 3.5" High Resolution Touch Panel LCD Screen which provides a large, expansive area for fast and easy menu navigation right at your fingertips. Boasting a resolution of 922,000 dots, the screen delivers exceptional detail and brilliant color for more accurate and enjoyable viewing. You'll also have Touch & Track, which allows you to get precise focus and exposure on any subject - whether it's people, vehicles, etc. by selecting your choice right on the touch panel LCD
- 0.27" Color Viewfinder
- When you want to zero in on the scene without outside distractions or glare from sunlight use the HF S21's 0.27" color viewfinder for recording and reviewing your video and still images
- Built-In Camera
- The VIXIA HF S21, in addition to being a camcorder, is also an 8MP digital camera. The VIXIA HF S21's Dual Shot makes it easier than ever to capture both video and photos. Shoot up to 3 frames per second in the Continuous Mode, or a blazing 5 frames per second in the High Speed Continuous Mode. The versatile VIXIA HF S21 even lets you capture a still image from an already recorded movie. While playing the movie in your camcorder, simply press the photo button to capture a 1920 x 1080 photo onto an SD card or to internal memory. Additionally, the VIXIA HF S21 allows you to capture 30 photos from one second of video. And in addition to all that your VIXIA HF S21's built-in flash lets you capture superb photos indoors and in low light conditions, and also features red-eye reduction
- Auto Intelligent Auto Focus
- Auto Intelligent Auto Focus, AiAF, ensures sharp images and gives creative flexibility. Even when your subject isn't in the center of the frame, the VIXIA HF S21's 9-Point AiAF will automatically select from 9 metering frames on the screen to help bring images into sharp focus
- Selectable Metering Patterns
- For optimal still image exposure, the VIXIA HF S21 offers selectable metering patterns: Evaluative, Center-Weighted Average, and Spot
- AE Bracketing Feature
- The AE Bracketing feature of the VIXIA HF S21 automatically takes three versions of the shot, with 'dark,' 'normal' and 'light' settings in 1/2 exposure steps so you may choose the one that best suits you
- Histogram Display
- For the advanced digital photographer, the VIXIA HF S21 comes with a Histogram Display - a feature found in Canon's line of digital SLR cameras. The display allows you to see the brightness information of your still images, so you can adjust your exposures as you shoot
- Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization with Powered IS
- The VIXIA HF S21 features Canon's proprietary Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization which provides continuous adjustment throughout the entire zoom range to correct a broad range of motion. Extra compensation is applied at wide-angle focal lengths to eliminate unwanted shaking which is common when walking. Together with Powered IS you'll find an even higher level of compensation for subtle hand movement at the telephoto end of the zoom range. Powered IS can be engaged by pressing or holding the Powered IS button on the touch panel LCD
- Instant AF
-
The VIXIA HF S21 camcorder features Canon's Instant AF focusing system which offers an improvement in auto focus speed and accuracy (compared to traditional auto focus systems). The Instant AF feature uses an external sensor, in combination with Canon's auto focus system, to help significantly decrease the time it takes to find focus, even in low light conditions. This system achieves focus instantaneously, reducing focus "hunting." This is especially beneficial in high brightness or night shooting situations. In addition, with Instant AF it's possible to capture fast, accurate focusing, even when following a moving subject.
To further enhance focusing capability, the VIXIA HF S21 also features Focus Assist. This helps in capturing your subject in razor-sharp focus. It works by providing a 2x magnification of your subject, which is automatically cancelled when you start recording
- Smart Auto
- Smart Auto makes shooting great video easy. Using the power of Canon's DIGIC DV III Image Processor, the VIXIA HF S21 intelligently detects and analyzes faces, brightness, color, distance, and movement, then automatically selects the best settings for the scene
- Touch & Track
- Touch and Track delivers precise tracking of the focus and exposure on any subject: people, pets, vehicles, and more. Simply select your point of interest on the Touch Panel LCD and you will have your subject in sharp focus regardless of where in the frame it moves during the shot. Touch & Track is the default setting. You can also choose to adjust focus or exposure independently by turning off Touch & Track, and turning on Touch Focus or Touch Exposure
- Genuine Canon Face Detection
-
The same Face Detection technology used in Canon digital cameras is available in the VIXIA HF S21 high definition camcorder. Up to 35 faces can be tracked automatically, ensuring razor-sharp focus and natural, accurate exposure. Of the faces tracked, 9 detection frames can be displayed at one time.
The system is in fact so smart that it will recognize faces turned downwards or sideways.
In addition, a specific face may be selected as the main subject for continuous tracking. This feature can be used to search for clips featuring that specific subject's face. In search and playback, use of the Face Index will display frames with the chosen face as a thumbnail in each shot in which it appears. The selected face can be linked as a timeline to further identify footage containing that subject
- Advanced Video Snapshot
- Advanced Video Snapshot allows you to capture the highlights of your adventures with the same ease as taking photos. Simply record a series of short video clips - or select your favorite clips while in Playback Mode - and blend in your favorite background music to create an exciting movie that will grab everyone's attention. This version of Advanced Video Snapshot allows selectable recording time (2, 4, or 8 seconds). Additionally, audio from an external source such as an MP3 player can be played along with the Snapshot movie, and playback can be controlled from that source
- Easy Web Sharing
- HD-to-SD Downconversion allows you to convert recorded high definition video to standard definition files while safely preserving the original HD video. These standard definition files make it even more convenient to edit, share video online, or create a DVD. The downconverted video can be transferred to your computer via traditional methods - i.e. USB connection, card slot - or wirelessly to sharing sites with an Eye-Fi SD memory card
- Eye-Fi SD Memory Card Compatible
- The VIXIA HF S21 is compatible with the Eye-Fi SD Memory Card. It's possible to wirelessly transfer your down-converted video and photos to your computer, or upload them directly to online sharing sites in a few simple steps. Insert an Eye-Fi SD Memory Card into the SD card slot on the camcorder, configure your computer to select the target site (e.g., Facebook, YouTube, Shutterfly, Flickr) and you're ready to share your standard definition files with family, friends, and the world 1
- Native 24p Mode, 24p Cinema Mode and 30p Frame Mode
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Native 24p Mode allows 24 frames per second - exactly the same capture rate as film - to be captured and recorded. This is a big advantage for serious filmmaking work enabling you to achieve a cinematic experience.
24p Cinema Mode enables all aspiring moviemakers to achieve a professional "film-look." You can change the camcorder's frame capture rate to 24p (recorded at 60i), which provides the appearance of the same frame rate as movie film. In addition, you can use the VIXIA HF S21's CINE setting, which changes the color and tonal characteristics, evoking the look and feel of a movie shown in a theater. For added flexibility, these settings can be used together or independently
In addition to the standard interlaced video frame rate of 60i, you may choose to set the VIXIA HF S21 to capture video in 30p Progressive Mode, (30 progressive frames, recorded at 60i) which is particularly useful for footage to be used on the Internet. Excellent for action and sports shots, this setting gives enhanced quality to still images captured after recording
- Terminals
- To maximize the usefulness and versatility of the VIXIA HF S21, you'll find a range of terminals to extend the capabilities of your camcorder. A built-in LANC Terminal provides an easy connection to both Canon and third party wired remote controllers. The Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe allows you to attach optional Canon accessories such as the VL-5 Video Light, DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone, or SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone. Easy, one-cable connectivity to your HDTV is yours through the VIXIA HF S21's HDMI Terminal which also supports CEC and x.v.Color. The built-in Microphone terminal with manual audio level control and Headphone terminal provide exceptional audio flexibility
- Audio
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For the ultimate home theater experience, 5.1-Channel Surround Sound allows you to capture audio quality that matches the stunning realism of your high definition video. Since sound is captured from all directions through five different pickup sensors, your home movies will look and sound more lifelike than ever before.
The Automatic Attenuator feature prevents high volume distortion and optimizes audio quality in situations when sound levels quickly change, such as when loud music plays in the background. It automatically keeps the audio clean and even
- Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software
- The Pixela ImageMixer 3SE video editing software allows for playback of recorded video on your computer and editing in which you can trim, reorder, and combine scenes, as well as add music, titles, and transitions. With the Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Software, you can burn a standard definition DVD to relive the memories on your TV. And to perfectly complement the Video Snapshot feature found on Canon flash memory camcorders, a music CD containing royalty-free soundtracks is also provided
- Creative Control and Workflow Features
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- Built-in video light for shooting video in low light conditions
- Color peaking enhances the edges of your subject to aid in focusing
- Enhanced zebra pattern indicates blown out or high brightness areas
- Intelligent Lithium-ion battery tracks remaining battery life for surprise-free recording
- Color bars with reference tone help to set proper color and audio levels with editing video
- Burn DVDs of your video with the optional DW-100 DVD Burner and one-cable connection
- Approximately 100% area display gives you a complete view in the LCD of the scene being shot
- Gain control allows you to lower the dB value to ensure dark scenes can be shot with correct level of darkness
- Custom key allows functions of exposure, focusing, assist functions, mic volume, or AGC limits to be assigned to a custom key
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 8.59 Megapixel 1/2.6" CMOS |
| Lens |
6.4 - 64 mm f/1.8 - 3.0 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 10x Digital: 200x |
| Filter Size | 58 mm |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Recording Media |
Internal Flash Memory 64GB Video/Image SD/SDHC Up To 32GB Video/Image 1 Please Note:2 x SD/SDHC memory card slot close |
| Recording Time |
Internal Flash Memory LP: 24 hours, 30 minutes SP: 19 hours, 10 minutes MXP: 5 hours, 55 minutes |
| Video Format |
High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1920 x 1080 (24/30/60 fps) 2 Please Note:Native 24p records at 24p, 24p Progressive records at 60i, 30p Progressive records at 60i close |
| Still Image Resolution | JPEG: 8 Megapixel |
| Audio Format | 2-Channel Stereo |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type |
LCD
3
Please Note:Also features a 0.27" viewfinder close |
| Screen Size | 3.5" |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Add-on Lens |
|---|
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Lux | 0.3 (Low Light Mode) |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Built-in Light/Flash |
Light - Yes Flash - Yes |
| Accessory Shoe | Mini Hot |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Inputs | 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini |
| Outputs |
1x USB 2.0 1x Component Video (out) 1x Composite Video (out) 1x HDMI C (Mini) 1x A/V 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini 1x LANC Terminal |
| Microphone Input | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Languages |
English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Japanese, Dutch, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, Italian, Polish, Romanian, Turkish, Ukrainian, Arabic, Persian, Thai, Greek, Czech, Hungarian
4
Please Note:Also displays Malay close |
| System Requirements |
Windows
Mac
|
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Power Adapter | 100-240VAC |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 3 x 2.9 x 5.8" / 7.62 x 7.37 x 14.73 cm |
| Weight | 1.2 lb / 544.31 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 71 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (47)
- Zoom range/performance (44)
- Easy to use (43)
- Large clear LCD (41)
- Image stabilization (39)
Cons
- Complicated to operate (4)
- Poor in low light (4)
- Short battery life (3)
Best Uses
- Home movies (37)
- Travel (36)
- HD shooting (35)
- Documentaries (26)
- Weddings (25)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual user (16), Enthusiast (15), Semi-pro (14), Pro videographer (6)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (46), Yes (4)
Most Liked Positive Review
Wait until the pros discover this!
As a video pro, I'm pretty picky. I bought this camera to use along with a Panasonic HVX-200, as a backup and second camera. I've compared footage shot with both cameras and ...Read complete review
As a video pro, I'm pretty picky. I bought this camera to use along with a Panasonic HVX-200, as a backup and second camera. I've compared footage shot with both cameras and without knowing which was used, I wouldn't be able to tell which was which.
I can see how consumers would like it, because it does a great job for home movies in the fully automatic mode, even though the video tends to be a bit overexposed. As a pro, I love the manual features, especially the ability to defeat both video and audio AGC. With the video gain limit set for zero or 6 db, the blacks are velvety smooth with no grain or noise. The auto-focus is very smooth (and can be easily turned off!) and the motion stabilization is also very good. With a custom setup, colors snap and fine detail is wonderful. Unlike other AVCHD cameras I've used, there seem to be no artifacts from compression. The native 24p is also wonderful and goes flawlessly right into Final Cut Pro. I love using 24p with a 1/24-sec shutter speed because it looks very smooth, even when converted to 60i. Since the imaging chip is bigger than most cameras in this class, you can get useful shallow depth-of-field even with medium zoom settings. My biggest gripe (and why I gave it four stars instead of five) is that the wide angle end of the zoom is not nearly wide enough. While the CAWD58H wide angle adapter solves this problem nicely and with good image quality, without it the camera is almost useless shooting indoors or for any kind of architectural shots. With this camera a wide angle adapter is a MUST. You will also want a couple of the higher capacity batteries--the little one that comes with it only runs about an hour.
Audio recording is great with both manual control and the ability to leave the automatic microphone attenuator turned on. It's the best of both worlds for audio. I've used 3 different pro mics with it so far, and all sound great. There's no problem using XLR mics with just a simple adapter cable. Actually, I made my own adapter cables that let me use two mics externally, one on each channel or to use a stereo XLR mic. Even though the manual audio control affects both channels equally, the dynamic range is good enough that this is not a problem at all.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
It's a Canon so it has to be good!
Well It is supposed to be compact and easy to carry. But by the time you have your ideal camera, it is not even lift-able. You have to buy extra batteries,because what comes...Read complete review
Well It is supposed to be compact and easy to carry. But by the time you have your ideal camera, it is not even lift-able. You have to buy extra batteries,because what comes with it is not enough. You need a charger,as Canon claims. You need a Tele-extension,and a Wide-extension. You definitely need a bag. Nowadays they won't even give you a neck strap .You need 2 high class SD cards. By the time you purchase an adequate microphone and flash light you are broke. It seems like it is best for one to stick to something small and inexpensive unless you have a rich uncle who is ready to go!
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 71 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Built in memory
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
I needed this camera to film my wedding... I love the Cinematic feature in the camera it gives an excellent movie feel like.
Can't find anything that isn't great about it, I am very satisfied.
But if you are a professional then you need to consider buying another type, this is just for personal use.
I am a professional photographer, but call me old fashion let the DSLR's to take the photos and the Video Camera take the video.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
- Poor Editing Software
- Poor lcd screen
Best Uses
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
Great video. But touch control on LCD screen is difficult to use. Bring back the joy stick. Can not see images on LCD finder in sunlight. ImageMixer software is a joke. Difficult to use. Multiple steps. Can not use Windows movie maker with high definition recording.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- No external zoom control
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- SportsAction
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
This is one of the best of the Vixia camera's it is feature rich and I like the two SD card slots to go along with the internal storage. The only feature I wish they had was the ability to connect an external zoom control for more smooth control.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
I bought this to record student college music auditions in my project studio. Importing to my Mac Pro is straight forward. While the imported video looks great on my Mac, I just wish iMovie'11 could produce a better looking DVD. Still, overall I am satisfied. A few small complaints: The battery does not release easily so I need to coax it out with a slender screwdriver. This could be a problem when shooting a live event, and you need to replace an expired battery quickly. The manual is inadequate and fails to acknowledge Macs as a likely editing platform. I still haven't put this camera through all it's paces yet but so far I like it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
Recently purchased this camera since having a baby in order to have the best possible footage from Day 1.
First impressions...all buttons are easily accessible whether using the hand holding the camera or free hand.
LCD...crystal clear, one of the best out of all camcorders I've tried out there. Very crisp, and sharp.
Startup time...instantaneous. Used similar cameras with almost identical specs from makers such as Sharp and Sony however this S21 is quick to get you shooting, EXTREMELY!
Most favorite feature: Image stabilization is sensational on this camcorder. Could not ask for better
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Accepts Eye-Fi card
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Has 2 SDHC slots
- Has separate viewfinder
- Highly shock resistant
- Large Clear LCD
- Large memory 64 GB
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
I use this camera for shooting documentaries as well as personal use. It replaces an earlier Canon camera I had that lacked a viewfinder. This is a definite plus.
The picture quality is excellent, and I am very pleased with the options available for shooting. The only downside is that it is difficult to use the touchscreen while shooting with the viewfinder, but once you have programmed the mode you want it is a breeze to use.
Image stabilization is great with this camera. No more row boat video for handheld shots. It gave excellent results on a recent trip to Glacier National Park, both video and stills.
I also purchased an Eye-Fi 8 GB card and a Pearstone BP-27 battery to use with this camera. The BP-27 greatly extends shooting time, and the Eye-Fi card makes transferring videos and photos a snap.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
I use a Mac and it is very easy to import video from this camera.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
Excellent presumer choice!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
Very useful because it's size means is can be always be available.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
It's amazing what you can do with this little thing!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
I am a prosumer and this camera has been great. Good lowlight and great for videoing the children. However, just as some have mentioned: battery life is short and the touch screen is difficult as the icons are small and you seem to always hit the one next to the one you want. Overall, the camera is as advertised and a good buy. Just remember to buy an extra battery if you need more than a 1 1/2 of record time without recharging.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Has a 5 quick adjust knob
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Bands and Dance movement
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
In the two weeks of using this camera, the first with a friends' which compelled me to get this, I have shot several bands and dance companies and have seen the versatility of light adjusments and capturing active movement without loss of detail. This camera offers controls on the verge of pro cameras. The results of quality in full HD is superb.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
I use my S21 for semi-professional work, and it has lived up to all expectations. Consumer Reports rated it the highest of all HD cameras, and it lives up to all expectations. The only down side is that it is a little bigger than other cameras (likely because it has a viewfinder attached) and the touch screen is still a little sticky, but these aren't major issues once you get used to them.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
Very light weight and compact for traveling, etc. Touch screen can be improved but functions adequately. Too many features to address but all are great to work with.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Small footprint
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
I purchased this camera to take on a trip to africa in sept 2011. So far based on my tests of this unit, i am amazed at what this camera is capable of doing.The internal 64g and separate sdhc slots make this one heck of a recording mobile device. I shoot at 24mbs and change from cinemode to 1080 at 24 and 30p and am impressed with the quality. Granted its not a professional camera of which i own several, but for the cost and the image that it produces, it is well beyond a b-roll camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
Compact.
Easy to use.
Lightweight.
Ability to be used as basic, automatic video camera but still has many other more sophisticated options.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
Extremely user friendly, light weight, and good quality.Negative parts would include the proprietary Canon mini shoe and the fact that all the settings are on the touch screen. If you are filming and need to adjust a setting, you have to be careful not to shake the camera. Get a bigger battery, stock only lasts 60min.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Light weigth
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
I used camera on a recent vacation and was very impressed. Images came out better then expected and reaction time is very fast. [...] Price was lowest I had found [...]
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
Make sure you set record mode in actual HD. It does not default that way. Also setting frame rate to 30P creates the best overall image.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder:
The camera is a delight to learn. As a total novice, I could be overwhelmed with all the features. But the instruction book gave me a basic understanding and a colleague helped me with the baseline applications. A good start. My projects involve interviewing artist and capturing their work on camera. I bought supporting infrastructure, battery/recharger, external microphone and a few other extras but now have a terrific instrument. Light weight and easy to handle.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Media
Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
- Price: $13.95
- GBP 8.82
Batteries & Power
Don't get caught without power, always have a spare battery.
- Reg. Price: $49.49
- Discount: -$1.50
- Discount price: $47.99
- Limited supply at this price
- Price: $69.95
- GBP 44.22
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $17.95
- GBP 11.35
Filters
Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect by adding a filter.
- Price: $8.48
- GBP 5.36
- Price: $29.90
- GBP 18.90
Lenses & Adaptors
Capture the right view with a conversion lens.
- Reg. Price: $289.00
- Discount: -$26.00
- Discount price: $263.00
- Limited supply at this price
- Price: $298.00
- GBP 188.37
External Microphones
Enhance the quality of your audio recording with an external microphone.
- Price: $22.95
- GBP 14.51
Shoe & Accessory Mounts
Increase your shooting options with the aid of additional mounts.
- Price: $19.95
- GBP 12.61
What's in the Box
- BP-808 Lithium-Ion Battery
- Wireless Controller
- Stereo Video Cable
- USB Cable
- Compact Power Adapter
- Music CD
- Component Cable
- Digital Video Solution Disc
- Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
Why Shop at B&H
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