The Canon VIXIA HF S200 Flash Memory Camcorder not only captures 1920 x 1080 HD video, but gives you a number of tools to work with. In addition to capturing high def video, the HF S200 also takes 8MP digital stills, and provides multiple photo and video capture options, such as Video Snapshot, Dual Shot, and still capture from already shot video. Whether you're in video or still mode, the HF S200 records all your files to SD/SDHC memory cards (dual slot), including Eye-Fi memory cards. The dual card slots also let you take advantage of Canon's Relay Recording which automatically switches video from one SD memory card to the next when the first card fills up. This way you'll never miss any of the action.
The central nervous system of the HF S200 is comprised of an 8.59MP HD CMOS sensor and Canon's DIGIC DV III Image Processor. The sensor and processor work together to capture HD video at the 24Mbps AVCHD bit rate. Other key features of the camcorder include the Canon HD Video Lens, 10x optical zoom, and Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization. In addition to these staples, the HF S200 also has a 3.5" High Resolution Touch Panel LCD. This touch panel screen not only gives you an extra-large platform on which to compose and play back images, but the ease of Canon's Touch & Track, which lets you obtain exacting focus and exposure on desired subjects, with just a touch.
Among the various functions designed to take the guesswork out of recording, the HF S200 gives you Face Detection, Instant AF, Smart Auto, and Advanced Video Snapshot. Other noteworthy features of the camcorder include microphone and headphone connections, a built-in video light and a built-in flash, and recording in Native 24p, 24p Cinema, and 30p Progressive Frame modes. When you're ready to upload and edit the camcorder comes with Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software for post-production.
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 S200's low power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. And if your HF S200 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
To further enhance focusing capability, the VIXIA HF S200 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
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
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 S200'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 S200 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
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
- 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
- Burn DVDs of your video with the optional DW-100 DVD Burner and one-cable connection
- Color bars with reference tone help to set proper color and audio levels with editing video
- Gain control allows you to lower the dB value to ensure dark scenes can be shot with correct level of darkness
- Approximately 100% area display gives you a complete view in the LCD of the scene being shot
- Custom key allows functions of exposure, focusing, assist functions, mic volume, or AGC limits to be assigned to a custom key