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Now that compact cameras and DSLRs can capture decent high-definition footage, what's the point of having a dedicated camcorder? The new Canon Legria HF S100 is a high-end camcorder that hopes to answer that.
With its S$2,099 price tag, the Legria HF S100 is built for the prosumer. It has the biggest sensor in Canon's camcorder line-up - an 8.59-megapixel high-definition CMOS sensor that's coupled with the Digic DV III image processor.
With it, the Legria can capture high-definition movies in the AVCHD format at up to 1,920x1,080 resolution (60 frames per second) and 8-megapixel still images.
It also records footage straight to an SD card. It has no built-in storage but you can fit it with up to 32GB of storage.
A new Dual Shot mode lets you capture 6-megapixel pictures while simultaneously capturing video. At the flick of a dial, you can shoot 8-megapixel still images in its dedicated photo mode.
While the camcorder is compact, it's weighty enough at 450g to remain steady in your hand. There isn't an optical viewfinder, but a 2.7-inch widescreen LCD provides an ample preview of what you're shooting.
When we started using it, we were a bit dumbfounded by a certain rattling noise the camera made when it was shut off. It sounded as if we dropped a lens cap. But the device didn't have a lens cap and we eventually found out that the noise was caused by the loose eyelid-like cover for the lens. The camcorder stops recording automatically when you shut the LCD and continues when you flip it out again.
The built-in video light and flashlight helped to brighten up faces at close range and in low-light conditions. The directional built-in mic picked up too much ambient noise but there's a 3.5mm jack so you can plug in your own external mic.
On top of all these extras, Canon's included a mini hotshoe so you can expand it with more accessories.
Footage taken by the Legria boasts fairly accurate and rich colours. Face detection technology also ensures faces come out clear and sharp in your footage.
There's a new video snapshot function that limits each movie to 4 seconds. After you're done taking your snapshots, you can play back this montage of clips to a soundtrack of your liking.
If you're in the market for a high-end camcorder that's decked out with features and will take the guesswork out of capturing decent high-definition footage, this Legria's for you.
- TODAY/yb
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