Canon's LEGRIA HF S20 Dual Flash Memory PAL Camcorder features 1920 x 1080 HD recording, 3 storage options, and a myriad of useful features and functions, including 25p Cinema mode. In addition to these features, the camera also captures 8MP digital stills. Video and stills can be stored to the 32GB internal flash memory or to SD/SDHC memory cards (including Eye-Fi SD memory cards) thanks to the dual card slots.
The heart of the HF S20 is its 8.59MP CMOS sensor. Along with the DIGIC DV III Image Processor this sensor captures brilliant footage. Of course these two have help from the camera's HD Video Lens, 10x optical zoom, and Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization. And, let's not forget about the generous 3.5" High Resolution Touch Panel LCD screen. This screen gives you a large surface on which to compose and playback video and still images, and it also features Canon's Touch & Track which allows for pinpoint selection of focus and exposure on the subjects of your choosing.
The many user-friendly features of the HF S20 take the guesswork out of getting your shot on the first try. Choices like Face Detection, Instant AF, Smart Auto, and Professional Shooting Assist Functions are just a few. Other noteworthy attributes of the camcorder include microphone and headphone jacks, a built-in video light and a built-in flash, and a Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe. When you're ready to upload and edit what you've shot the HF S20 includes Canon's Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software.
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 LEGRIA HF S20's low power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. And if your HF S20 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 LEGRIA HF S20 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
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
- 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