Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder
- No Longer Available
Remember the Essentials
Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
Panasonic's HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder features 3D recording into addition to 1080p recording and flash memory storage. Using the optional VW-CLT1 3D conversion lens, the SD90 gives you the ability to make fun and unique 3 dimensional memories that literally pop! Finished 3D movies can be viewed on any 3D TV that is compatible with the side-by-side method, including the Panasonic VIERA 3DTV.
When it comes to making good old 2D movies the SD90 doesn't fall short. With 1080p recording and a multitude of quality features, the camera not only yields stunningly detailed, vibrant, and life-like footage that will look great on your HDTV, but it also gives you the tools you need to create memories that will last a lifetime. A 1/4.1" 3.32MP CMOS sensor and Panasonic's Crystal Engine PRO processor work together to produce those high def images quickly, and with the incredible beauty and detail that only progressive recording can give.
Progressive recording, as opposed to interlaced, reproduces the entirety of an image - the lines of information going across, and, up and down in an image. This means that your colors will be more vibrant and true to life, and details will be more well-defined. Progressive literally records twice as much information from your scene than interlaced does. When you put progressive footage up on your HDTV you'll see the incredible detail and lush colors that standard definition and interlaced recording can't match. Not only that, but shooting 1920 x 1080/60p also means that your video is future-friendly - making it usable and relevant for many years to come.
Other tools of the SD90 include a 28mm wide-angle lens. This lens helps you to get everyone in the scene. A 3.0" touch screen LCD gives you a generous platform on which to record and review your footage. The touch operation gives you an intuitive way to move through menus and change settings without taking your eyes off your subject. Other standard camcorder features include HYBRID Optical Image Stabilization, for keeping your footage steady, and a 40x Intelligent Zoom.
In addition to being a high def camcorder, the SD90 doubles as a 5MP digital still camera. You can leave your dedicated still cam at home - freeing yourself up from the burden of a weighed down bag and from having to switch between units. Other features of the SD90 include a bevy of user-friendly shooting controls. These controls help take the guesswork out of recording, allowing you to focus on the moment and not trying to figure out the correct setting for a particular scene. Functions like face detection, scene modes, and Intelligent Auto, among others, give you the options you need to make the most of your videos!
When you're done shooting and ready to share your memories the SD90 gives you numerous options. Use the included HD Writer AE 3.0 software for editing, archiving, and sharing your footage, including help uploading to social media sites like YouTube or Facebook. Using an optional mini HDMI cable or the optional VIERA Image Viewer you can view your video on your HDTV. You can also burn your footage using an optional DVD burner. And yet another option is to use the in-camera Advanced Highlight Playback which turns your scenes into a creative montage complete with music.
- 28mm Wide Angle Lens
- The 28mm wide-angle lens on the HD 90 Series fits more people and more of the background into the frame than conventional models. This is especially handy when you want to take a group photo in a small room. It fits your subjects in even when you shoot from up close, and makes it possible to pick up even small sounds with the mic. It also gives you entirely new ways to enjoy your camcorder, like taking self portraits or capturing sweeping landscapes without losing the sense of scale
- Intelligent 40x Zoom and HYBRID O.I.S.
- The HD 90 Series features an Intelligent Zoom function that goes all the way up to 40x. When using Intelligent Zoom, Intelligent Resolution technology lets you shoot at high zoom rates while preserving the image resolution. You get sharp images of highly detailed objects - without the blurry edges. Plus, the HD 90 Series is equipped with HYBRID O.I.S., an image stabilizer system that corrects hand-shake blurring by combining the action of its hybrid optical and electrical image stabilization systems. Even when zooming, where hand-shake often occurs, both optical and electrical hand-shake correction make it possible to record beautiful images with approximately 2 times* the hand-shake suppressing effect as conventional models
- O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) Lock
- The image-stabilizing effect is increased by pressing and holding the O.I.S. Lock indication on the LCD screen, which maximizes the blur detection sensitivity. This is great for when you want to zoom at a fixed angle, like for bird watching
- 1080/60p Recording
-
With its transfer rate of 28 Mbps, 1,080/60p recording (Full-HD, 1,920 x 1,080, 60 progressive recording) conveys about twice the information of 1,080i (interlace) recording. Whereas interlacing requires two images to produce a complete picture, the progressive method records a single image as a complete picture. Plus, the 60 Progressive Recording of the 90 Series produces 60 images per second. This extremely dense image information creates intricate detail and silky smooth motion. Even when subjects move quickly, afterimages are minimized to create more natural images. The progressive method is most effective when shooting designs where more patterns tend to occur, or when capturing scenes during sports events where the subjects are intensely moving around. Also, the recorded images displayed clearly even when they are made into still images, so it is possible to preserve stunning photos when clipping them from videos
- Interlaced Scanning (1080/60i):
Only half of the image data is reproduced in each picture. Fabric patterns run together, and moiré patterns appears
- Progressive Scanning (1080/60p):
Reproduces all of image data in a single picture. Patterns in fabric are crisp and clear with no color bleeding
- Interlaced Scanning (1080/60i):
- Crystal Engine PRO
-
The Crystal Engine PRO instantly processes the huge amount of data that goes into Full-HD images, and further enhances Full-HD quality. It produces smooth, high-resolution zoom shots even when the range exceeds the limit for optical zooming. Crystal Engine PRO clearly delineates even the tiniest details of your subject, with extremely natural beauty. In addition, its Noise Reduction (NR) technology has been completely redesigned. The low-frequency noise that occurs when recording in dim lighting has been further minimized. Compared to previous Panasonic models, noise has been reduced by approximately 45%. And Intelligent Resolution Technology ensures sharp and crisp pictures, resulting in bright and beautifully colored motion images
Intelligent Resolution Technology
The Intelligent Resolution Technology incorporated in the new Crystal Engine PRO uses edge detection technology to confirm the edges of objects within the image, then emphasizes the edges for optimal clarity. For example, it brings crisp definition to patterns and the outlines of objects like flowers. Conversely, it reduces noise and enhances the natural smoothness of parts without edges, like the sky. The increased sharpness is especially effective for images with delicate details. This highly advanced technology maximizes the beauty of Full-HD images
- Zoom Mic and Wind Noise Canceller
-
- Zoom Mic:
The Zoom Mic function that links with the camera's zoom action has evolved even further. Compared to previous models, the noise-reducing performance is improved by 1/3 (-10dB).* It lets you clearly record the sound of your target subject
- Wind Noise Canceller:
The Wind Noise Canceller automatically detects and suppresses only wind noise. It lets you capture natural sounds with lifelike ambience even when shooting in windy conditions outdoors or by the sea
- Zoom Mic:
- Still Picture Recording at 5MP with Intelligent Resolution Technology
- In Still Picture Recording mode, Intelligent Resolution Technology lets you record clear still images with resolution up to 5MP. Also, when playing back the moving pictures you shot, you can capture 4.5MP still images of any scene you want. The HD 90 Series lets you enjoy high quality in both motion and still images
- Scene Mode
-
Automatically selects the most suitable shutter speed and aperture for the shooting location and situation
- Scene modes: Sports, Portrait, Low Light (motion image only), Spot Light, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Fireworks, Scenery, Night Scenery, Night Portrait (still image only)
- Soft Skin Mode
- When this function detects skin tones, it softens the focus in that area. This has a skin beautifying effect, which makes wrinkles and lines appear less noticeable. When turned on, this function makes blemishes and moles look less conspicuous, while preserving resolution in areas of the picture outside of the skin
- Tele-Macro
- You can shoot macro close-ups while maintaining a distance of 50 cm from your subject. In addition, using the zoom at full magnification makes it much easier to capture extreme close-ups without your body or camera casting a shadow on the subject and while keeping the background in soft focus
- 3D Image Recording
-
When the optional VW-CLT1 3D Conversion Lens is attached, the HD 90 Series produces an effect called visual disparity. Right and left images are captured simultaneously by the two lenses, and recorded using the side-by-side method. To play back 3D videos, simply insert an SD Memory Card in the slot of a Panasonic VIERA 3DTV.** Or you can use an HDMI mini cable to connect the camcorder to a VIERA 3DTV or another 3D TV that is compatible with the side-by-side method
- How does the human eye perceive 3-Dimensional Images?
Because the left and right eyes are located at different positions on the face, the left and right eyes perceive slightly different images. The difference between these two images is called 'visual disparity'. The brain processes these two images with visual disparity to reconstruct spatial conditions, enabling us to see things with 3-dimensional depth
- Shooting:
Images for the right and left eyes are simultaneously recorded through two lenses, using a 3D conversion lens that artificially reproduces the phenomenon of visual disparity
- Playback:
The TV alternately reproduces the left and right images, which are viewed through 3D Eyewear. To play back 3D videos, simply insert an SD memory card in the slot of a Panasonic VIERA 3DTV or use an HDMI mini cable to connect the camcorder to a VIERA 3DTV or a side-by-side method compatible 3D TV
- How does the human eye perceive 3-Dimensional Images?
- 3.0" Wide LCD with Intuitive Touch Operation
-
The easy-to-view 7.6 cm/3.0" wide LCD screen allows intuitive fingertip touch-operation. When shooting, you can use Touch Zoom to instantly zoom in and out by simply touching your fingertips, and Touch Shutter to automatically focus when shooting still images by simply touching the subject on the screen. For playback, you can also change thumbnail pages by sliding a fingertip across the screen. You get smooth, intuitive operation and don't have to take your eyes off of the LCD screen
- Touch operation for shooting:
You can easily zoom in and zoom out by simply touching the LCD with your fingertips. Shoot at any angle of view while watching the screen
- Touch Shutter:
Even when shooting movies, you can touch the subject on the screen to instantly focus on it, and easily switch to still-image shooting
- Touch operation for playback:
You can flip through thumbnail pages, display one of the thumbnail scenes, highlight a scene, and more, with easy, intuitive, fingertip operation
- Touch operation for shooting:
- iA (Intelligent Auto)
- This powerful function senses the shooting conditions and automatically makes the settings and activates functions that will deliver optimal results. iA does the bothersome settings for you and makes it easy to capture beautiful, well-focused images
- HYBRID O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) with Active Mode
-
HYBRID O.I.S. corrects hand-shake blurring by combining the action of its hybrid optical and electrical image stabilization systems. Even when zooming, where hand-shake often occurs, both optical and electrical hand-shake correction make it possible to record beautiful images with approximately 2 times* the hand-shake suppressing effect as conventional models
- Active mode:
Active mode comes in handy when shooting while walking or playing with your children. The wide correction area corrects even relatively large hand-shake motion. It's especially good for active video shooting
- Active mode:
- Face Recognition
- The Face Recognition function recognizes the faces of registered subjects, and automatically optimizes the focus and exposure for those special people. It continues to track the subject as he or she moves anywhere within the LCD frame, making it ideal for video shooting. It is extremely useful for capturing someone's face in a group. Names can also be registered and displayed on the LCD while shooting. A total of six people can be registered, and the names of up to three people at a time can be displayed in the shooting frame
- AF/AE Tracking
- Touch the LCD screen to indicate the subject, such as a person or an animal, that you want to focus on, and let AF/AE Tracking do the rest. The camera locks on the subject and follows it around, keeping it in sharp focus and properly exposed. It keeps tracking even if the subject turns to the side. This advanced function makes it easy to get a continually clear, beautiful shot of the subject in the scene you care most about
- Intelligent Scene Selector
-
The Intelligent Scene Selector function analyzes the shooting situation and automatically switches the camcorder to the suitable scene mode that will give you optimal results
- Portrait:
This mode captures faces beautifully. With Soft Skin mode, complexions are automatically enhanced to make faces attractive
- Scenery:
This mode is ideal for shooting wide landscapes and sweeping vistas, such as at the ocean or in the mountains. It balances the exposure over the entire frame to prevent brighter parts of the image, such as the sky, from being washed out or having blown highlights
- Spotlight:
The camcorder automatically uses this mode for scenes with particularly strong contrast, such as when you're shooting a spot lit area on a darkened stage. It captures the well-lit subject perfectly and prevents washed-out areas
- Low Light:
In dim lighting, the camcorder automatically switches to a slower shutter speed so that images across the entire frame are bright and easy to see
- Portrait:
- Face Detection
- Face Detection automatically senses the ambient lighting and adjusts the exposure accordingly, so faces are bright and easy to see. The focus also prioritizes the faces, and skin tones are smoothed. Faces in the center of the frame serve as the reference for adjustments, but the function can detect up to 15 faces at once
- Intelligent Contrast Control
- Intelligent Contrast Control detects the ambient light level and adjusts the exposure accordingly, helping to prevent blown highlights and blocked shadows. You can capture natural looking, highly nuanced images with proper contrast
- Special iA Mode for Still Images
-
The iA function is active even when the camera is in still-image mode. When the Intelligent Scene Selector detects the shooting situation, it automatically switches to one of the five Scene modes for still-image shooting, and optimizes the settings for the still image
Sports, Portrait, Spot Light, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Fireworks, Scenery, Night Scenery, Night Portrait, Macro
- Handy Functions and Interfaces
-
You can enjoy more professional shooting with these handy functions
- Microphone:
There is a mic input terminal on the side of the camcorder. Plug in an external mic (optional) if desire
- Accessory Shoe:
Optional accessories can be attached here to increase shooting versatility
- Microphone:
- Smile Shot (Still Image)
-
The Smile Shot function automatically detects subject smiles, and captures the best possible smile while you're shooting movies. It lets you easily catch those fleeting, easy-to-miss stills of a smiling subject. It will also optimize the focus and exposure for your subject's smiling face
- Capture the smiles of only certain subjects - Face Recognition Link:
This function detects subjects who are registered in advance and automatically snaps the shutter to catch the subject's best possible smile. It's great for capturing the smiles of certain people in a group
- Capture the smiles of an entire group - Face Detection Linked:
This function automatically snaps the people within the LCD frame smiles. It gives you shots of an entire group of people smiling, making it great for group shots
- Capture the smiling face of a moving subject - AF/AE Tracking Linked:
Simply touch a subject within the LCD frame. This function will then lock on and start tracking your subject. When the subject smiles, it'll automatically snap the shutter
- Capture the smiles of only certain subjects - Face Recognition Link:
- 1.0 Sec Quick Power-On
- Switch the power on and the HD camcorders are in standby mode in approx. 1.0 seconds, ready to shoot when you are. When the LCD is closed, the power automatically switches off. This fast startup and automatic shutdown also help reduce battery consumption
- 0.6 Sec Quick Start
- Using Quick Start mode, you simply flip open the LCD and you're ready to shoot in just 0.6 seconds. When Eco mode is also used, the power turns off whenever the camcorder has not been operated for 5 minutes. This reduces wasted power consumption, and enables a longer battery life
- Relay Recording
-
The Relay Recording mode automatically switches from the built-in flash memory (once it's full) to the SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card and continues recording. You don't have to worry about missing an important shot while switching media
How to combine motion images that are split onto two types of media as a continuous scene
- Arrange the data that is split onto two types of media on an SDXC/SDHC/SD memory card:
The Relay Recording mode automatically switches from the built-in flash memory (once it's full) to the SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card and continues recording. You don't have to worry about missing an important shot while switching media
- Use the included software:
You can also use the editing software that is included with the camcorder to join the split data as a continuous scene
- Use a DVD burner to create a disc:
If the SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card is not big enough to hold all of the split data, use a DVD burner to create a disc with all the motion images as a single continuous scene
- Arrange the data that is split onto two types of media on an SDXC/SDHC/SD memory card:
- Pre-Rec Function
- This smart function records three seconds of images even before you actually begin shooting. The images are held temporarily in the camcorder's internal memory, before recording begins. This helps ensure that you won't miss the start of a moment you want to record, such as when an event begins all of a sudden. For example, if you're waiting to snap a shot of a jumping dolphin, you can press the REC button after you've made sure that the dolphin has cleared the surface of the water. The camcorder will record the entire scene, from the instant of the dolphin's jump until it disappears again into the sea
- Auto Power LCD
- The LCD brightness can be adjusted manually to suit the surroundings. In Auto Mode, the LCD brightness is adjusted automatically in 16 smooth steps depending on the surroundings. In darker rooms it adjusts to a lower brightness, making it easier to frame the shot. Outside, it adjusts to almost twice the brightness for easy viewing even on sunny days
- Wide Viewing Angle
- The LCD has a highly detailed, 230,400 dots display and a viewing angle of 170°, both vertically and horizontally. Images are clear and bright even when viewed from an angle, so everyone can gather around the LCD to enjoy on-the-spot recordings. The wide viewing angle is also great for taking high- or low-angle shots
- AGS (Auto Ground-Directional Standby)
- The O.I.S. linear motor system can detect when the camera is in an unusual shooting position - such as when you've inadvertently left it on in recording mode. In these cases, the camera automatically stops recording, saving both battery power and media storage space
- 60 Frames/Sec High-Speed Burst Shooting
- This function lets the camcorder snap up to 60 consecutive 0.9-megapixel still images* per second for a total of 180 continuous images in about 3 seconds. The resolution can also be increased and up to 30 consecutive 2.1-megapixel still images** per second can be shot for a total of 90 continuous images in about 3 seconds. You can use it to analyze a golf swing, tennis stroke or other motion. You can also use it to get good shots of subjects in fast motion. Just fire off a number of shots without stopping, then keep the best ones and delete the rest
- Focus Assist
- This function shows which subjects are in-focus by displaying their outlines in blue. You can easily check the focus on LCD when manually focusing, to ensure consistently clear, sharp images
- Composition Guide Lines
- With wide LCD monitors, it's hard to keep images perfectly level. The HD 40 Series solves this by displaying horizontal and vertical Composition Guide Lines that make it easy to keep the subject straight and level
- LED Video Light
- When the camera determines that the ambient lighting is insufficient, it automatically switches the light on. This illuminates your subject for shooting. The LED (light emitting diode) has low power consumption, a long service life, and the safety of a low operating temperature
- Color Night Rec/Color Night View
- Leave the light off. Color Night Rec/Color Night View gives you images with color even in dim lighting (1 lux)
- Auto Lens Cover
- When the power is turned on, the lens cover automatically opens. When the power goes off, the lens cover closes. You don't have to keep removing and replacing a lens cap - or worry about losing it
- World Time
- Setting the time is as easy as selecting a city from the displayed map. The World Time function lets you set the time for two cities, home and destination. You don't have to figure out the time difference at your destination, and it's easy when you get home
- Advanced Highlight Playback
-
Select the days of the recordings you want to see, and this innovative function automatically selects the most exciting scenes, arranges them, and plays them, with music. It decides how exciting a scene is, based on zooming, panning, and scene changes, and whether there are faces. The 90 Series have both advanced with the addition of playback effects that include slow motion, still image fading, and flash playback. Four new image effect modes - natural, pop, dynamic and classical - have also been added. Set different effects based on the mood of your images, and enjoy memorable scenes just the way you remember them when shooting. The Face Highlight Playback mode places priority on selecting the faces of subjects who are registered in the Face Recognition function, for quick playback of the scenes where they are clearly recorded, together with music
- Natural:
Enjoy more impressive highlight playback with natural switching effects
- Pop:
View highlight playback of the images you've taken, together with a variety of fun effects
- Dynamic:
Enjoy highlight playback with speedy, dynamic effects
- Classical:
Enjoy highlight playback with dramatic effects applied mainly to your subject's faces
- Natural:
- Face Highlight, Highlight and Time Frame Index
-
The index function has been enhanced with the addition of a feature that divides each recorded scene into a number of smaller scenes, and displays thumbnails for each. This makes it much easier to find a particular part of a scene without having to fast-forward
- Face Highlight Index:
The Face Highlight Index selects scenes that have faces in them and displays them in an index format. This handy function lets you quickly find and view scenes that have people in them
- Highlight Index:
- Time Frame Index:
The camera automatically selects and displays the most exciting scenes. It determines the level of importance of each scene based on zooming and panning, and whether there are faces. This gives you an easy, convenient way to view all the highlights together
This mode divides each recorded clip into 3 second, 6 second, 12 second, 1 minute and 5 minute intervals, and displays them. This is convenient when you want to find a specific scene within a long clip
- Face Highlight Index:
- Easy Connecting, Easy Viewing
-
- VIERA Link:
Connect your HD camcorder to a VIERA or compatible Blu-ray Disc Player via an HDMI mini cable, and you can control both units in synchronized operation with a single remote control. This kind of simple, easy operation makes it enjoyable to view your recordings
- VIERA Image Viewer:
Just slip the SD card from your camcorder into the VIERA Image Viewer card slot on your VIERA TV, and you're ready to view full-HD moving images recorded
- VIERA Link:
- Archiving and Playback
-
The HD camcorders have a USB Host function that lets you connect directly to a DVD burner via a USB cable. Then just press a button and you can copy the moving images you recorded from the SD card, Built-in Memory, or HDD to a DVD disc
- Easy AVCHD to MPEG2 Conversion:
You can make a copy either in the original high-definition AVCHD format, or in the standard-definition DVD-Video (MPEG-2) format. Choose the one that matches your playback equipment
- Saving 1080/60p Data with a PC:
Use the included HD Writer AE 3.0 software to save Full-HD 1080/60p data onto a PC or an SD card
- Playback with a DVD burner:
To view the disc you just burned, simply connect the HD camcorder to an HDTV via an HDMI mini cable
- Easy AVCHD to MPEG2 Conversion:
- Editing, Archiving, and YouTube Uploading
-
HD Writer LE 1.0 software, included with the camcorder, makes it easy to play or edit videos on your PC and have more fun when the shooting's done
- Importing Data:
When the camcorder is connected to a PC, the software automatically starts up. Importing data takes only a few clicks of the mouse
- Easy YouTube and Facebook Uploading:
The videos you've recorded are easily uploaded to YouTube or Facebook in their original high quality. HD Writer LE 1.0 lets you share your videos worldwide
- Editing:
It's easy to add titles, rearrange scenes, provide transition effects, and edit images in single frame units
- Archiving:
Make a copy either in the original high-definition AVCHD format, or in the standard-definition DVD-Video (MPEG-2) format
- Importing Data:
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 3.32 Megapixel 1/4.1" CMOS |
| Lens |
2.82 - 59.2 mm f/1.8 - 3.5 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 21x Intelligent (Optical): 40x Digital: 1500x |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Recording Media | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Recording Time |
SD 4GB: 1080/60p: 19 minutes; HA: 30 minutes; HG: 40 minutes; HX: 1 hour 16GB: 1080/60p: 1 hour, 20 minutes; HA: 2 hours; HG: 2 hours, 40 minutes; HX: 4 hours, 10 minutes 32GB: 1080/60p: 2 hours, 40 minutes; HA: 4 hours, 10 minutes; HG: 5 hours, 30 minutes; HX: 8 hours, 20 minutes 64GB: 1080/60p: 5 hours, 20 minutes; HA: 8 hours, 30 minutes; HG: 11 hours; HX: 16 hours, 50 minutes |
| Video Format |
High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1920 x 1080p, 1920 x 1080i (60/60 fps) |
| Still Image Resolution |
JPEG: 5.0 Megapixel JPEG: 1.9 Megapixel, 0 x |
| Audio Format | 2-Channel Stereo |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Screen Size | 3.0" |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Lux |
4 (1/30 Low Light scene mode) 1 (Color Night Rec) |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Built-in Light/Flash |
Light - Yes Flash - Yes |
| Accessory Shoe | Cold |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Inputs | 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini |
| Outputs |
1x HDMI C (Mini) 1x USB 2.0 1x A/V |
| Microphone Input | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | No |
| General | |
|---|---|
| System Requirements |
Windows
Mac
|
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 1.99 x 2.48 x 4.67" / 50.55 x 62.99 x 118.62 mm |
| Weight | 8.61 oz / 244 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 51 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Zoom range/performance (67)
- Easy to use (45)
- Great picture quality (40)
- Image stabilization (39)
- Good in low light (27)
Cons
- Poor still image (5)
- Poor in low light (3)
- Poor sound (3)
Best Uses
- Home movies (34)
- Travel (32)
- HD shooting (26)
- Low light (16)
- Movies/short films (10)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual user (25), Enthusiast (18), Semi-pro (4)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (41), Yes (6)
Reviewed by 51 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
Decided to buy this camcorder instead of buying a still camera that records in HD. I have a healthy Nikon addiction but felt that a camcorder should be lightweight, ergonomic, efficient and technically advanced with auto focus proficiency. In this Panasonic, I have found all of these qualities. Even though I scowl at SLR operators using program mode, this is what I wanted: a non-technical approach of capturing video. However, the White Balance could be more accurate - it has to record for a few seconds before it can identify the color temperature of the light source.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
Easy to use, very lightweight and handles well.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
I have used the camera for a few months with no problems. The focus is very good using the zoom feature. The image quality is outstanding using the 1080 60p when viewed on a HD tv but I have not found an editor that works with the camera video file format and display on HDtv so all HD viewing is unedited. Computer viewing is excellent quality.
- 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
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
I have been using this camera for about two months now. The one thing that I still love about this camera is it's size. Very small and very light weight (.54lbs). Fits in my hands nicely and I hardly realize it's there. The picture quality is outstanding. The wide angle lens that is used in this camera can be found on Panasonics higher end cameras. This brings a professional feature to a mid range priced camera. I love the mic input feature that also allows for more professional live sound recording. The Macro feature is simply awesome. I take very close video shots of computer componants and these close ups are clear as can be. Battery life even with the battery supplied with the camera is surprisingly long. This camra does GREAT! in low light situations, something that has been an issue for a long time with digital cameras and cam corders. This is the best still shot digital camera I have ever owned. I was really surprised at how well this camera functions as a 5mp digital camera. Loaded with so many features to name here including great night shot mode, manual focus, 30" LCD, face recognition, 1 second power on, auto lens cover, and many more. I will gladly give this camera 5 stars. Any one who purchases this camera will not be disappointed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- External microphone, Tripod
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
Used on recent vacation to the mountains. Zoom excellent. Photo-taking ability while video-taping a great bonus. Movement/wind cancellation great. Used on helicopter ride and videos/pictures turned out fantastic. So small can put in large pocket. Couldn't be more satisfied.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
Great wide-angle lens with easy-to-control zoom, amazing video images, excellent still pics. Recomended
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
I'm just a novice, last camcorder I owned
took vhs tapes! with a little reading and
practice I have made and played back movies and pics.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
So far I have only taken indoor video, but considering that is what I disliked about my last camcorder. The quality was very good and sound was quite realistic. I do have to learn how to run the camcorder better, but that is my problem. It also easily takes good quality photos.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
The HDC-SD90 image stabilization is rock-steady, for hand-held video you would think a tripod was used. The color is true-life and shot in true 1080P. The low-light capability is great - video shot outside a dimly lit shark tank was amazing. The touch screen is intuitive. The zoom is smooth too.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
I just received this camera last week and used it to film a band's Blues/Rock show at a club. This particular club is very dark and even though I used no additional light, the video quality turned out very good. Also, the stabilization and zoom features on this camera are excellent, a big advance from my previous Panasonic direct to DVD camera. I can't really rate the sound quality yet because, I really was positioned too close to the lead guitarist to pick up much of the bass player. However, the lead guitar and drums were quite sharp and clear as far as sound quality. I'm very happy with my purchase of this camera so far and others have made positive comments on the videos produced too. Definitely would recommend this camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
I just got the HDC-SD90 and love it! I've used it to film my daughter at gymnastics meets and it rocked. I also used it at home to catch my youngest doing funny toddler things. The wide angle lens and zoom are fantastic! Very satisfied!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
Bought this camera to record the precious moments that occur daily with our newborn son. After only a few days it is clear that this was the right purchase. No noisy or heavy internal hard drive. Convientent ScanDisk storage makes for great portability. The start up time on the camcorder in standby mode is super fast. The size, weight are perfect. The picture quality is truly high def. looks great on the high def Tv/computer.
The built in light is helpful but a bit weak. But the auto/on and off in dark /light conditions is an nice feature and does help. Very impressed with the image stabilization feature. Makes for nice smooth recordings. Excellent zoom for a camera in this price class. TOuchscreen/or hard controls for most features makes it very easy to use.
I looked at many retailers on and off line and B&H had the best price by far!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
Beautiful video quality - easy to use, etc, etc. Great manual shutter-control - like all Panasonics. Really the best camcorders on the market in my opinion.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
I use this camcorder to capture duck and goose hunts. It works great in lowlight and is very easy to operate.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
Lightweight, compact, easy to use, great picture, good audio
- 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
- No earphones input
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
Everything is just fine, almost perfect camcorder. But, only one missing point among many great features in this camera. I desperately need a connection for the earphones. In such a great camera they must have built an entrance for the earphones. My main goal for this camera was to record live music, so, I was happy abut external mic option, but missed this point in choosing the right camera. The rest of it, I strongly recomend this camcorder.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
Using the product takes a very short amount of time to figure out. It coulld come with an SD card, but they aren't that expensive so I didn't consider that a serious problem. The sound is above average but not perfect. The pros outweigh the cons by a longshot and I would recommend buying this camera if you want something great for a starting camcorder.
- 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
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
I'm a music teacher at a performing arts elementary school. I have 45 years experience working with Regular 8, Super 8 Sound, and video cameras making educational videos and home projects utilizing as many bells and whistles as I have available.
Before buying the HDC-SD90, I did quite a bit of research, and found that Consumer Reports listed it as a "Best Buy".
The quality is very impressive. The lens is fantastic. It handles low light well, and is very stable and sharp when hand-held.
I am also a Macintosh uses. It does have a Mac compatible mode, but at less than HD quality. I found a work around for this issue. I downloaded a program called, "Aunsoft MTS Converter" which will convert the full HD files at full quality to be compatible with iMovie and Final Cut Pro X. It was a bit annoying to have to spend an additional $40 for the converter, but well worth it. This is a Mac issue, not an HDC-SD90 issue. I love the camera, and look forward to using it on many many projects.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
This Panasonic SD90 is super compact and light weight yet produce amazingly pleasing Full HD movie quality with 60fps even in extreme low light condition. For close ups, I can film the object within inches while on wide angles. operating is super easy. I was able to use most of the functions without painfully looking up the menu. focusing was smooth and fast.
3D movie? I love the idea of the optional 3D lens use with this SD90. I will definately be buying that in the near future. The only lack of functions like those fround from three thousand dollars camcorder are manual zooming and focusing.
battery life is kind of short, around 90 minutes. I end up purchased an additional battery doubling my recording time.
Other than that, this SD90 definately is a keeper.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic HDC-SD90 High Definition Camcorder:
This camcorder has a quite acceptable quality, is very fast, maybe missing a few physical buttons for example pre-rec or the built-in flashlight.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Aron de Alacant
Images shared by Aron de Alacant
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
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Media
Required item: Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
- Price: $9.99
Batteries & Power
Don't get caught without power, always have a spare battery.
- Price: $44.69
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $16.16
Lenses & Adaptors
Capture the right view with a conversion lens.
- Price: $243.99
What's in the Box
- AC Adapter
- AC Cable
- Rechargeable Battery Pack
- A/V Multi Cable
- USB Cable
- Shoe Adapter
- Stylus Pen
- CD-ROM
- 90-Days Labor & 1-Year Parts Limited Warranty
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