Not to burst your bubble or say you don't know what you are doing but with my HF10 I don't have any problems uploading the videos onto my computer and editing them in After Effects or Vegas or really any editing software... Even on my friends low-end laptop it works (Windows machines not Mac)
@mike6754321011 This review is from two years ago! The editing world is a far different place and most everything handles AVCHD now. At the time very few programs did.
You can buy hot shoe adapters for that camera so other mics will fit on it just search for this video he has the adapter "Dining Room Table Reviews - Canon HF200, Sanyo VPC-TH1 Shoot-Out"
Windows 7, 3GHz Quad, 8GB RAM. It's a monster, it'll preview the footage no problem, but when you start to add layers to it... Well it gets interesting :P
I have the Canon Vixia HF10. I gotta admit this camera is amazing! But i agree about the auto focusing. Yet i have windows 7. On a middle class laptop. (Dell) and this easily imports all avchd files and somwhow imports them into WMVS.(Usually)
@Marco007Marco007 I actually have a Mac now, and I usually import them as an event on iMovie then bring them over into Final Cut Express 4, so yes. I'm happy.
My computer eats AVHC. Try a PC with windows 7.. even a top of the line mac is not as fast as a PC and the hard ware is old before you even buy it. Hell I only have a 4600+ AMDx2 and I can render or do anything fast.
Well You can capture your videos to many editing softwares such as Sony Vegas,Adobe Premier,Apple Final cut express,Apple Final cut pro 6 those are the ones I recommend.
So if I got the camera now and transfer the files onto my PC, can I add them straight to Adobe Premiere Pro CS4 and start editing, or do I need to convert them somehow in a program like virtual dub?
With my current SD Hard Drive Disk camera I have to convert them before Adobe can even recognize the file.
The only difference is whether it has built-in memory or not. Both take SDHC flash cards. But the HF10 also has some built-in memory. You need usb2 and the camera has to be plugged into the a/c power adapter to get anything off the built-in memory. I prefer using flash cards in a card reader instead of plugging the camera in.
well i have the hf10 & love it once u convert the file with the program that came with it u can use any video editing program u wish to use i use widows movie maker and pinnacle studio. and i must say no problem at all. i was in a strip club last week and used it to record a live performace of a hiphop artist and it came out pretty good i must say. if u goto youtbue and type in jws photography u can see some of my videos i have done using this hf10. the on & off button is easy 2 use also
the 3 different series all give similar pictures and mostly have similar features. The difference is in workflow. The HV uses mini-DV tapes which give you a built-in archive, and needs a slightly less powerful computer to edit. The HF uses flash cards, which you have to back up to other media. The HG uses a spinning hard disk in the camera, which gives more storage but is also more fragile and still needs to be backed up.
Wonderful review. Thank you for confirming the [current] challenges and issues with AVCHD editing, which is extremely important for my next camcorder and editing software purchase.
I think that this is a good review but I have one issue. I have a 20 inch Imac upgraded to 4 gigs of RAM. I dont have any issues editing this video at the highest quality in Imovie 09 or FCE4. It does take a while to render but that is to be expected. However, the computer has no problem editing the footage at all. I dont know how much the 4 gig of RAM upgrade helps because I never tried it with only 2 gigs.
just to clarify - it only shoots HD, but it has several different bit rates that affect the quality. It does the same whether you're going to flash cards or the internal memory. The lower quality settings give you more minutes of recording per card, but it's still HD.
This review is close to two years old. Most video software and computers can handle AVCHD files now.
The current models, the HF200 and HF20, have subtle ergonomic improvements over the early models and are great cameras for the money. There are now HFS100 models with somewhat better controls, too.
Unfortunately, you have to spend quite a lot more than the HF200's $550 price to improve on it. If that's your price range, buy the Canon and enjoy!
I have a nice Sony DCR-TRV460. Can you suggest an upgrade? I use Pinnacle Studio on a PC. The Canon seems difficult to edit. The Panasonic AG-DVC 20 is something I am considering? Thank you
When taking few pictures on image mode and switching it right away to image playback, does it take long to process the image because mine is very slow does your camera have the same problem?
My final cut 5 wont read them.. I ended up having to buy a program called Voltaic.. Takes forever to convert them.. In the end though the quality is good. I filmed a music video with it.
Fast forward a year later, multi-core CPUs now are the norm and have become affordable. A lot of video editing suites now support AVCHD. Go for 64 bit O/S and apps if you can and load it with lots of RAM since its cheap. Battery life does suck, so get 2 or more. With HD TVs become more common, HD is the only way to go.
I just got the '08 model of this camera and have repeatedly tried to upload footage to imovie (both '06 and '09) but neither work. I think it has something to do with the cpi files. I connect the usb and the power adapter connecter, but the import button does not come up. How do I upload footage to the computer? Thanks
Make sure the camera is off and iMovie is not open when you attach the USB, open iMovie, then power the camera. It should then show you the Import option. Also, make sure the dial on the right side of the camera is turned to the blue movie camera mode. I hope this helps. I had to call Canon with the same problem. I'd much prefer to download onto iMovie from the SD card, but Canon says that's not possible on Macs :-|
This review was intended for professionals, not consumers and is now almost a year old... talk about catching up with the times. There are new models since then!
Intended for professionals? But this is a consumer camcorder. It doesn't even really fall into the prosumer category. I liked your review however - it was useful.
A lot of photojournalists want very small, high quality cameras... there were no pro or prosumer cameras in this category except Sony A1U until the recent JVC HM100. We have to take what we can get... and be aware of shortcomings. The new version of this camera, the HF200, is improved and the other new, slightly larger "s" Canon models have better controls. There would be a market for a pro camera based on this body, I think.
Thanks. I'm in Japan and the HF 11 is a popular model now. I'm looking to upgrade from a Panasonic 3CCD camcorder which I bought a few years ago. I was never happy with the low-light performance.
It's interesting but so many people still swear that Sony's VX2000 / VX2100 are the best camcorders that money can buy for under $2000.00 and they aren't even HD. Low light performance is incredible though.
hmmmm....the only terrible review on this camcorder, you are either a serious pro who expects to be making blockbuster movies OR you work for a company like sony or panasonic, seemed overly bias and not a good review for what is an ausome consumer camcorder.
Yes, this review was for professional photojournalists.... and was done almost a year ago when the editing situation was much worse than now. It is a good consumer cam... but consumer cams in general aren't so good for professional use.
I'm having some problems using the external mic input on this camera. I haven't used a powered mic yet, but I have used unpowered mics and I tried using line in cables from to connect the mic port to the headphone jack of a voice recorder I use.
The problem is that I get a lot of electrical noise, to the point where nothing else is audible. I sent it in to canon and mentioned this along with an unrelated problem, but they didn't seem to fix/address it.
It needs mic level - which usually means a microphone that has a battery in it. It won't provide phantom power for a pro mic, and it won't take line level inputs. You'll need an -20db attenuator from a pro audio shop to use line level inputs.
If you're listening through headphones, you need to go into a menu item and switch the a/v output to phones... otherwise you'll get the loud and nasty electrical noise you mention. It's not a defect, it's a feature!
Yes, you are right about the hf10 and hf100 being the same. The part of the video where the on-screen title says "with wide angle" is shot with a Raynox wide angle adapter on the camera.
Another thing to keep in mind is the quality of the wide angle lens. Some of them are *really* bad, with massive color fringing on the edges and blurry off center. That, in addition to vignetting.
Hi! I'm doing research on this camera and sounds good but some reviews co plain about it's editing system. Is it possible to bring the footage to Windows movie maker? (I have a PC) or Movie edit pro 14?
What is the sound like? In your opinion which High Def camcorder has the best sound quality with the least wind noise? or a camcorder that I use a small external microphone with? what is the the best and most importantly smallest external mic I can use?
I want the camera for vacations, blogging, special occasions nothing professional (but that looks professional in a small package).
Wind noise is tough... you have to spend money on something like a Sennheiser MKE400 and its optional wind muff, or even Canon's dedicated shotgun mic with a wind muff. No small camcorder has built-in mics that deal with wind. And audio quality depends on getting the mic close to the subject!
It is very similar to the hv30 except for the recording medium - tape vs AVCHD. The images are very similar. Tape is easier to edit if you don't have a powerful computer with latest software. The HF10, HF11 and HF100 are smaller, lack a viewfinder, but the controls (and lack thereof) are very much like the hv30. The hv30 needs firewire to capture; the avchd cameras need the right software.
i'm really thinking of getting the canon vixia hv30...u think it would be good quality for short movies and stuff like that? I think i'm going with it.
I finally bought one of these cameras. It's great and I think this guy is a little critical of the camera. I agree that video editing is a chore with this baby, but it's a great camera.
can anyone help please,i just got this cam and i got a windows vista and i dont know how to find the vids N put them on my computer. am i doing something rong?
Assuming you connect via USB and followed the on screen menu (u need to plug in power adapter), open up file explorer (windows explorer or my computer) & it should show up as new drive "CANON". Your files will be \AVCHD\BDMV\STREAM folder as *.MTS files. You'll need something that can playback MTS files or convert them. Sony Vegas will recognize it. So will Premiere CS4. Havent played with the supplied Canon software so not really sure about that.
Thanks for the review, it help me decide to get this or the similar Sony one. I got this back in the summer (thanks to stimulus check ^_^). I'm glad I made the choice, HF10 is great. No probs with AVCHD here with my Core 2 Duo PC with Premiere CS3 but I'm transcoding to Cineform. Vegas supports it natively. Just upgraded to CS4 and AVCHD is now fully supported. File also play back on PS3. Battery life is my only complaint. So get a few if you plan on filming a lot on the go.
avchd is supported by premier and after effects CS4? cuz I was worried. I still might reconsider a diff camera, but I still wanted to confirm that the codec is supported.
third party codecs and hardware (like Blackmagic Intensity HD capture cards) arent supported by CS4 yet until an update (which is suppose to be due sometime December '08) but yeah AVCHD is supported natively in CS4. Seems a lot of camcorders now are using AVCHD as the codec of choice. But you'll still need at least a Dual Core computer to work with the format efficiently.
I use an HP with Windows Vista, 3ghz processor and 4gb ram. Sony Vegas Platinum 8 can open up the files with no problem, and no conversion to anything so it is very fast.
I want to thank you for this review. It's one of the most informative I've seen. I really wanted to buy one of these Canons, but I'm scared away by the computer-intensive editing/converting issues (I don't have a "top of the line" tower). Thanks again for the detail in this review!
Awesome review. Even if I can use a different codec to play the h.264 video the battery life is the clincher for me as well as not being able to choose standard format. HD is all or nothing. Thanks for the review. Saved me the time of buying and trying just to have to return it.
FYI, the optional $100 BP819 battery gives several hours of battery life.
The HF10 or HF100 are nice cameras if you're comparing them to other consumer cameras. Just make sure your computer and editing setup can handle the files!
Hey nice review! After about 2 months of research, I simply cannot decide between this cam and the Sony CX12. In my opinion, the only real edge Canon has over the Sony is the fast autofocus (however ironicaly enought, the focus drifted seemingly at random as you pointed out in this video). Sony's control dial is far better for manual focus than Canon's joystick. I could go on with the pro's and con's of each (like low-light performance, color reproduction, etc). It is so hard to decide!!!
The microphone and headphone jacks on the Canon are a huge advantage. The autofocus on the Canon is very good, but it's hard to lock it in tough situations like in this video. I've never used the Sony, so can't comment on it. Good luck!
Thanks for your reply. Yes, others mention the mic and headphone jacks as an advantage, yet for me, I don't see why I'd care, so maybe that isn't relevant to me. But what do I know? Take care.
The SD9 has the same issues with the AVCHD files as the Canon -- find some raw files to make sure you can work with them! The Canon is a really good camera compared to other consumer cameras but like all consumer cameras, has real drawbacks compared to pro cameras. Try before you buy!
It didn't work with any of the Windows XP machines I had access to.... I think you need Pinnacle or Vegas or use the included software for limited editing.
This isn't true. You simply need to install a capable codec (like the ones that come with ffdshow). Any recent PC can handle h.264 HD video. I've been messing with it for at least a couple years. Other than the PC misinformation, nice review!
It does lack a viewfinder and the hotshoe isn't standard size, but they wanted to make it small. Everything else the reviewer complains about is subjective or is an issue with all similar cams. If he's going to complain about AVCHD, then that's too bad because everyone is moving to this.
The record button is in the same location as other AVCHD cams (Sony CX12, Pana SD9), ergonomics are the same (all same shape) and battery life is weak on all these cams too--its not just Canon.
I've never used sd9 or hc7 but I've used hv20 a lot. It's a great camera and the tape format is easier to work with for a lot of editing programs and computers. Plus you'll always have the tape for archive... it's easy to lose your originals from a flash-based camera if a drive crashes.
I tried it on after effects and sony vegas and they went really slow when I tried playing the movie on the programs. It was probably my computer, but don't let me get your hopes down. Try it yourself.
I appreciate your review, being a proud HC 10 enthusiast. I'm editing on FCP ver. 6.0.4. I'm seeking advise on your recommended "Easy Set UP" settings, I have been using the format for Sony EX1 that is also 1920 1080p, It works but when you drop clips into a new sequence, a window shows stating it will convert automatically to the required format for best performance. However I Don't know what these settings are, as Easy Set UP window does not update to it's new setting
In the FCP browser window in list view, you can scroll over and see all the clip settings -- you might have to change the easy setup to match and then save it as a custom setup. Make sure you include the upper/lower/none setting for field dominance along with size and codec.
If you don't have the latest computer and software, the HV20 (now HV30) is a way better choice. Even if you do, there's a lot to be said for having tape archives!
1/3.2" Dslr sensor = amazing!
Not sure i like some of the quirks with it.
Flash = compromise and compression. Tape and hardrives are better.
Ibringthetruth1 11 months ago
3:22 VOICE CRACK LMAAAO
RVRx 11 months ago
excellent review.
loonpolice1 1 year ago
Not to burst your bubble or say you don't know what you are doing but with my HF10 I don't have any problems uploading the videos onto my computer and editing them in After Effects or Vegas or really any editing software... Even on my friends low-end laptop it works (Windows machines not Mac)
mike6754321011 1 year ago 5
@mike6754321011 This review is from two years ago! The editing world is a far different place and most everything handles AVCHD now. At the time very few programs did.
HeraldVideo1 1 year ago 3
Wait so the video of your face was shot with it?
cat325ccr 1 year ago
FYI...this is out of date. PremierePro and pretty much all video editing programs can now handle AVCHD.
I edit it on an Dell laptop (PC) and it runs fine...spits out good stuff.
baywestchurch 1 year ago
'
i like my videocamera canon digital A1 hi8mm,,,
no more make it
bestamerica 1 year ago
You can buy hot shoe adapters for that camera so other mics will fit on it just search for this video he has the adapter "Dining Room Table Reviews - Canon HF200, Sanyo VPC-TH1 Shoot-Out"
ngvgnDOTcom 1 year ago
well the camera work in a gateway windows vista??????????????
mrhalo121 1 year ago
Can my computer from 2002 with 512 mb of ram use this camera? If not I'll be preety mad
bassskaterzach1 2 years ago
Yeah I know what you mean...
Windows 7, 3GHz Quad, 8GB RAM. It's a monster, it'll preview the footage no problem, but when you start to add layers to it... Well it gets interesting :P
Scorge120 2 years ago
I have the Canon Vixia HF10. I gotta admit this camera is amazing! But i agree about the auto focusing. Yet i have windows 7. On a middle class laptop. (Dell) and this easily imports all avchd files and somwhow imports them into WMVS.(Usually)
So.... BOOM!
Apple-0
Windows-1
GerMericanBeast 2 years ago 6
@GerMericanBeast You can import them on Mac too..... So.... BOOM
Apple - 1
Windows - 1
Happy we are tied?
Marco007Marco007 8 months ago
@Marco007Marco007 I actually have a Mac now, and I usually import them as an event on iMovie then bring them over into Final Cut Express 4, so yes. I'm happy.
GerMericanBeast 7 months ago
My computer eats AVHC. Try a PC with windows 7.. even a top of the line mac is not as fast as a PC and the hard ware is old before you even buy it. Hell I only have a 4600+ AMDx2 and I can render or do anything fast.
Joevit78 2 years ago
I think I see your problem...
you are using a mac. xD
BfeoAdmin 2 years ago 2
I was thinking the same thing.
Joevit78 2 years ago
how much does this camcorder cost?
OrangePHX 2 years ago
About $900 and up.
MaximumResonance 2 years ago
you can get it from circuit city refurbished for 500
kcaz94 2 years ago
Circuit City is out of business....
OrangePHX 2 years ago
Comment removed
Yadadamizzle 2 years ago
u can get it from b&h used for 500$, i bought one last week
kcaz94 2 years ago
hello, I bought this camera but seem to be having a hard time capturing video on to my pc, got any advice?
TheDekuSprout 2 years ago
did you ever find out about up loading video to pc. i nned to know before i buy it.
ninjazoner 2 years ago
Well You can capture your videos to many editing softwares such as Sony Vegas,Adobe Premier,Apple Final cut express,Apple Final cut pro 6 those are the ones I recommend.
uncutfilm 2 years ago
whats the difference between this and the hfs10. and whats with all the names legria, vixia.. omg.. could they make things any more confusing..???
fighterdude83 2 years ago
wtf?! r u telling me that using a pc i can't even open tha files? :(
persini 2 years ago
This review is over a year old... software is better now. If you've got a modern computer you'll be ok.
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
So if I got the camera now and transfer the files onto my PC, can I add them straight to Adobe Premiere Pro CS4 and start editing, or do I need to convert them somehow in a program like virtual dub?
With my current SD Hard Drive Disk camera I have to convert them before Adobe can even recognize the file.
Thanks for the informative review.
PeanutButterGamer 2 years ago
is the HF-10, or the HF-100 preferable?
Tomba444 2 years ago
The only difference is whether it has built-in memory or not. Both take SDHC flash cards. But the HF10 also has some built-in memory. You need usb2 and the camera has to be plugged into the a/c power adapter to get anything off the built-in memory. I prefer using flash cards in a card reader instead of plugging the camera in.
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
they used it to shoot a few scenes in crank 2
dickesproductions 2 years ago
well i have the hf10 & love it once u convert the file with the program that came with it u can use any video editing program u wish to use i use widows movie maker and pinnacle studio. and i must say no problem at all. i was in a strip club last week and used it to record a live performace of a hiphop artist and it came out pretty good i must say. if u goto youtbue and type in jws photography u can see some of my videos i have done using this hf10. the on & off button is easy 2 use also
jarvis0715 2 years ago
This is how all reviews should be. Taking both positive and negative sides carefully into account. Good job!
Winstonnnnnnn 2 years ago
Thank you, From the Canon Camcorder series, which one is the best; HF, HG, or HV?
Thank you so much.
CasualLuxuries 2 years ago
the 3 different series all give similar pictures and mostly have similar features. The difference is in workflow. The HV uses mini-DV tapes which give you a built-in archive, and needs a slightly less powerful computer to edit. The HF uses flash cards, which you have to back up to other media. The HG uses a spinning hard disk in the camera, which gives more storage but is also more fragile and still needs to be backed up.
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
Wonderful review. Thank you for confirming the [current] challenges and issues with AVCHD editing, which is extremely important for my next camcorder and editing software purchase.
emailkenny 2 years ago
I think that this is a good review but I have one issue. I have a 20 inch Imac upgraded to 4 gigs of RAM. I dont have any issues editing this video at the highest quality in Imovie 09 or FCE4. It does take a while to render but that is to be expected. However, the computer has no problem editing the footage at all. I dont know how much the 4 gig of RAM upgrade helps because I never tried it with only 2 gigs.
walker5family 2 years ago
so does it only record HD on the flash cards? The 16gb internal memory is for standard definition videos? sorry i just got a bit confused there...
Lukrecia888Crowley 2 years ago
there are two models the hf and hd the hd has internal memory and a flash slot the hf only has the cards
sacredgeometry 2 years ago
no you can record HD on the internal as well
Branman1994 2 years ago
just to clarify - it only shoots HD, but it has several different bit rates that affect the quality. It does the same whether you're going to flash cards or the internal memory. The lower quality settings give you more minutes of recording per card, but it's still HD.
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
so which camera is better than this and addresses the problems that you just mentioned?
CanadianHitler 2 years ago
This review is close to two years old. Most video software and computers can handle AVCHD files now.
The current models, the HF200 and HF20, have subtle ergonomic improvements over the early models and are great cameras for the money. There are now HFS100 models with somewhat better controls, too.
Unfortunately, you have to spend quite a lot more than the HF200's $550 price to improve on it. If that's your price range, buy the Canon and enjoy!
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
Thanks a lot, for the Value
Kafamara 2 years ago
hey guys i really cant decide. this or the hg20? the video quality to me looks almost the same but idk what do you guys think?
dayboyy24 2 years ago
i agree in terms of ergonomics, i wouldnt call it poor but definitely good good. lots of shit is in awkward spots
seajist 2 years ago
AVCHD is really exaggerated in terms of needing "computing horsepower" to edit..honestly any modern core2duo with 2gb ram will be more than enough
seajist 2 years ago 2
What do you film the Canon with??
TheHoustonRocket 2 years ago
If you do a vid. with this, will it mess up the quality in windows movie maker? sorry if that was a stupid question, lmao.
TheLifeOfJMJ 2 years ago
AVC H.264 RULES m8 its the fucher wot u talking about lol god
markyyyyy 2 years ago
get a PC u prick more compatable
markyyyyy 2 years ago
Well, actually, the PC guys have trouble, too. Now, more than a year after this review, Macs now have no trouble with AVCHD.
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
rofl this guy is a retard
seajist 2 years ago
Why thank you... it's always nice to get constructive criticism...
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
Hi Chuck, Great, informative video!
I have a nice Sony DCR-TRV460. Can you suggest an upgrade? I use Pinnacle Studio on a PC. The Canon seems difficult to edit. The Panasonic AG-DVC 20 is something I am considering? Thank you
HarlequinFilms 2 years ago
When taking few pictures on image mode and switching it right away to image playback, does it take long to process the image because mine is very slow does your camera have the same problem?
evks82 2 years ago
My final cut 5 wont read them.. I ended up having to buy a program called Voltaic.. Takes forever to convert them.. In the end though the quality is good. I filmed a music video with it.
dianagen11 2 years ago
Finally, a half decent review.
FirebrandNIRE 2 years ago
does it work with xp or vista?
xxxcraz 2 years ago
both, i think it works with windows media player 11
hahhahhahhahhahh 2 years ago
Fast forward a year later, multi-core CPUs now are the norm and have become affordable. A lot of video editing suites now support AVCHD. Go for 64 bit O/S and apps if you can and load it with lots of RAM since its cheap. Battery life does suck, so get 2 or more. With HD TVs become more common, HD is the only way to go.
junkyintel 2 years ago 8
This has been flagged as spam show
very good!
this cam works with 720x480 resolution too?
edsonpessoa 2 years ago
I just got the '08 model of this camera and have repeatedly tried to upload footage to imovie (both '06 and '09) but neither work. I think it has something to do with the cpi files. I connect the usb and the power adapter connecter, but the import button does not come up. How do I upload footage to the computer? Thanks
bslim27 2 years ago
Make sure the camera is off and iMovie is not open when you attach the USB, open iMovie, then power the camera. It should then show you the Import option. Also, make sure the dial on the right side of the camera is turned to the blue movie camera mode. I hope this helps. I had to call Canon with the same problem. I'd much prefer to download onto iMovie from the SD card, but Canon says that's not possible on Macs :-|
durkfx 2 years ago
Can the movies be edited with Windows Movie Maker?
payntingdotcom 2 years ago
Can you edit files with iMovie HD?
ComedyCluster 2 years ago
No, you need an intel Mac with iMovie 08 or 09
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
Sounds more like user issues than product related. Catch up with the times old man. Weak review!
tundraman02 2 years ago
This review was intended for professionals, not consumers and is now almost a year old... talk about catching up with the times. There are new models since then!
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
Intended for professionals? But this is a consumer camcorder. It doesn't even really fall into the prosumer category. I liked your review however - it was useful.
SwitchRich 2 years ago
A lot of photojournalists want very small, high quality cameras... there were no pro or prosumer cameras in this category except Sony A1U until the recent JVC HM100. We have to take what we can get... and be aware of shortcomings. The new version of this camera, the HF200, is improved and the other new, slightly larger "s" Canon models have better controls. There would be a market for a pro camera based on this body, I think.
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
Thanks. I'm in Japan and the HF 11 is a popular model now. I'm looking to upgrade from a Panasonic 3CCD camcorder which I bought a few years ago. I was never happy with the low-light performance.
It's interesting but so many people still swear that Sony's VX2000 / VX2100 are the best camcorders that money can buy for under $2000.00 and they aren't even HD. Low light performance is incredible though.
SwitchRich 2 years ago
oops my apologies you did somewhat speak good of it for atleast 30 seconds...pssh
dartboardpicture2 2 years ago
This video went with a written review. See the url in the video description.
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
if your going to label it review how about you talk positive about it as well instead of just whining the whole time
dartboardpicture2 2 years ago
Is the Canon VIXIA FS100 ok
PlanBmexican7 2 years ago
You bitch alot
JesusOfSuburbia94 3 years ago
wtf? the bat lasts 30-40 minutes? =/
TerrenceCore 3 years ago
The optional BP819 battery is great, it lasts 2 1/2 hours.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
is it the same dimensions
sacredgeometry 3 years ago
Dose it work with Final Cut Express?
Sigurddrugis94 2 years ago
I would also want to know if it works with final cut express 4
McGovernCinematics 2 years ago
Yes, it works with FCE4 with the current updates.
HeraldVideo1 2 years ago
So turn autofocus OFF you dolt..
314noceu 3 years ago
Their is no manual focus except through a menu item, controlled by the joystick.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
Seems to me you need to get a PC. It works with most programs
symanleedsuk 3 years ago
sony vegas 8 works as well it opens and edits the files..
ps3bapekill1 3 years ago
on this camera, if you have a usb microphone, and you plug it into the usb slot in the camera, will it work as an external mic?
badappollo123 3 years ago
this video needs be updated!
telecaribe 3 years ago
Can you recommend any camcoder for the same price??? I'm looking into making short films. Thank you for the info on hf 10.
gabrielknights 3 years ago
hmmmm....the only terrible review on this camcorder, you are either a serious pro who expects to be making blockbuster movies OR you work for a company like sony or panasonic, seemed overly bias and not a good review for what is an ausome consumer camcorder.
patrickmanning94 3 years ago
Yes, this review was for professional photojournalists.... and was done almost a year ago when the editing situation was much worse than now. It is a good consumer cam... but consumer cams in general aren't so good for professional use.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
yes that's why they're called consumer and PROSUMER!BUT NOT EVERYBODY HAS 3 THOUSAND DOLARS FOR A CAMERA! BUDGET THAT
telecaribe 3 years ago
thanks for posting. every other vid i saw made this camera seem perfect, besides i didn't want to spend that much on it anyways.
sk8erjoe7 3 years ago
Actually, it's a really good value for the money... but it's not a pro camera.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
I'm having some problems using the external mic input on this camera. I haven't used a powered mic yet, but I have used unpowered mics and I tried using line in cables from to connect the mic port to the headphone jack of a voice recorder I use.
The problem is that I get a lot of electrical noise, to the point where nothing else is audible. I sent it in to canon and mentioned this along with an unrelated problem, but they didn't seem to fix/address it.
Any advice?
NWVietnameseNews 3 years ago
It needs mic level - which usually means a microphone that has a battery in it. It won't provide phantom power for a pro mic, and it won't take line level inputs. You'll need an -20db attenuator from a pro audio shop to use line level inputs.
If you're listening through headphones, you need to go into a menu item and switch the a/v output to phones... otherwise you'll get the loud and nasty electrical noise you mention. It's not a defect, it's a feature!
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
Thanks for the great review!
ravynx 3 years ago
"with wide angle?". The HF10 has the exact same wide angle as the HF100, which isn't very much at 48 degrees.
You really need a wide angle attachment lens in order to get anything other than quite narrow angles.
a1mint 3 years ago
Yes, you are right about the hf10 and hf100 being the same. The part of the video where the on-screen title says "with wide angle" is shot with a Raynox wide angle adapter on the camera.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
Another thing to keep in mind is the quality of the wide angle lens. Some of them are *really* bad, with massive color fringing on the edges and blurry off center. That, in addition to vignetting.
a1mint 3 years ago
Hi! I'm doing research on this camera and sounds good but some reviews co plain about it's editing system. Is it possible to bring the footage to Windows movie maker? (I have a PC) or Movie edit pro 14?
earlpie 3 years ago
avoid focus drift.. zoom in as far as possible.. focus pull out and everything between will be in focus
doinkinternational 3 years ago
There's no way to lock focus with this camera without going into a menu item using the joystick. Which isn't difficult, but is inconvenient.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
What is the sound like? In your opinion which High Def camcorder has the best sound quality with the least wind noise? or a camcorder that I use a small external microphone with? what is the the best and most importantly smallest external mic I can use?
I want the camera for vacations, blogging, special occasions nothing professional (but that looks professional in a small package).
dreamerchaser101 3 years ago
Wind noise is tough... you have to spend money on something like a Sennheiser MKE400 and its optional wind muff, or even Canon's dedicated shotgun mic with a wind muff. No small camcorder has built-in mics that deal with wind. And audio quality depends on getting the mic close to the subject!
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
If any1 wants to check out my vids in HD visit me!
SteevnFire 3 years ago
What do u recommend the HF10 or the HV30? Please help me. Which has best AUDIO ?? And please tell me pros and cons of each one .
limabone 3 years ago
battery life???
settembreee 3 years ago
it have propetary format?
settembreee 3 years ago
is this a better camera than the canon vixia hv30?
lightmydank 3 years ago
It is very similar to the hv30 except for the recording medium - tape vs AVCHD. The images are very similar. Tape is easier to edit if you don't have a powerful computer with latest software. The HF10, HF11 and HF100 are smaller, lack a viewfinder, but the controls (and lack thereof) are very much like the hv30. The hv30 needs firewire to capture; the avchd cameras need the right software.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
i'm really thinking of getting the canon vixia hv30...u think it would be good quality for short movies and stuff like that? I think i'm going with it.
lightmydank 3 years ago
If you filmed this review with the Vixia, and had it recording in HD, there would be a "Watch in HD" link in the corner of the video.
There isn't even a "Watch in High Quality" link.
MooseOfReason 3 years ago
Hey, this review was done long before YouTube had HD option!
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
What about the "High Quality" option, because I can give a link to a video with the "Watch in High Quality" link from April, if needed.
MooseOfReason 3 years ago
I own a Mac so no problem.
I can't wait to get it.
dero32 3 years ago
wait till i nollie bigheel the 9 set with this thing
MSemeranSB 3 years ago
You can't edit them because your a gay ass Mac user who sucks his own dick.
nbyma99 3 years ago
agreed this dudes an old duoche bag who doesnt know what hes doing, hes ripping on it when its one of the nicest handycams u could get
MSemeranSB 3 years ago
Great complimentary to other review videos.
iAnton3000 3 years ago
I finally bought one of these cameras. It's great and I think this guy is a little critical of the camera. I agree that video editing is a chore with this baby, but it's a great camera.
northwestmike 3 years ago
i have a regular PC and the videos upload fine... i no have no problem editing at all
theKATHLEENshow 3 years ago
So what program are you using to edit?
luvmyctd 3 years ago
What program are you using to edit?
luvmyctd 3 years ago
Question was for theKATHLEENshow but seems the Respond button isn't putting my question in the right place. doh.
luvmyctd 3 years ago
What HD camera would you suggest over this one that is under $1,000?
AndrewsFootage 3 years ago
can anyone help please,i just got this cam and i got a windows vista and i dont know how to find the vids N put them on my computer. am i doing something rong?
Vegetanthony 3 years ago
Assuming you connect via USB and followed the on screen menu (u need to plug in power adapter), open up file explorer (windows explorer or my computer) & it should show up as new drive "CANON". Your files will be \AVCHD\BDMV\STREAM folder as *.MTS files. You'll need something that can playback MTS files or convert them. Sony Vegas will recognize it. So will Premiere CS4. Havent played with the supplied Canon software so not really sure about that.
skytoast1 3 years ago
Thanks for the review, it help me decide to get this or the similar Sony one. I got this back in the summer (thanks to stimulus check ^_^). I'm glad I made the choice, HF10 is great. No probs with AVCHD here with my Core 2 Duo PC with Premiere CS3 but I'm transcoding to Cineform. Vegas supports it natively. Just upgraded to CS4 and AVCHD is now fully supported. File also play back on PS3. Battery life is my only complaint. So get a few if you plan on filming a lot on the go.
skytoast1 3 years ago
avchd is supported by premier and after effects CS4? cuz I was worried. I still might reconsider a diff camera, but I still wanted to confirm that the codec is supported.
radioschizo 3 years ago
third party codecs and hardware (like Blackmagic Intensity HD capture cards) arent supported by CS4 yet until an update (which is suppose to be due sometime December '08) but yeah AVCHD is supported natively in CS4. Seems a lot of camcorders now are using AVCHD as the codec of choice. But you'll still need at least a Dual Core computer to work with the format efficiently.
skytoast1 3 years ago
Canon is great...yep
leodino000 3 years ago
I use an HP with Windows Vista, 3ghz processor and 4gb ram. Sony Vegas Platinum 8 can open up the files with no problem, and no conversion to anything so it is very fast.
Works for me!
lowcostvideos 3 years ago
if u dont like it return it ok fuss fuss
ScottLewisNJ 3 years ago
which will you recommend...
canon vixia hf10 or sony sr12e??
Kalees 3 years ago
I want to thank you for this review. It's one of the most informative I've seen. I really wanted to buy one of these Canons, but I'm scared away by the computer-intensive editing/converting issues (I don't have a "top of the line" tower). Thanks again for the detail in this review!
northwestmike 3 years ago
Awesome review. Even if I can use a different codec to play the h.264 video the battery life is the clincher for me as well as not being able to choose standard format. HD is all or nothing. Thanks for the review. Saved me the time of buying and trying just to have to return it.
toloekot 3 years ago
FYI, the optional $100 BP819 battery gives several hours of battery life.
The HF10 or HF100 are nice cameras if you're comparing them to other consumer cameras. Just make sure your computer and editing setup can handle the files!
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
Hey nice review! After about 2 months of research, I simply cannot decide between this cam and the Sony CX12. In my opinion, the only real edge Canon has over the Sony is the fast autofocus (however ironicaly enought, the focus drifted seemingly at random as you pointed out in this video). Sony's control dial is far better for manual focus than Canon's joystick. I could go on with the pro's and con's of each (like low-light performance, color reproduction, etc). It is so hard to decide!!!
AllUrUtubeRbelong2me 3 years ago
The microphone and headphone jacks on the Canon are a huge advantage. The autofocus on the Canon is very good, but it's hard to lock it in tough situations like in this video. I've never used the Sony, so can't comment on it. Good luck!
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
Thanks for your reply. Yes, others mention the mic and headphone jacks as an advantage, yet for me, I don't see why I'd care, so maybe that isn't relevant to me. But what do I know? Take care.
AllUrUtubeRbelong2me 3 years ago
can u put a fish eye on it??
pistolwhip32 3 years ago
It takes 37mm filter size.... some of this was shot with a .33x semi-fisheye.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
could it fit a .43x fisheye lens
pistolwhip32 3 years ago
were would you get ths?
DrOpHaTeRs 3 years ago
thanks for the video review... which would you recommend then? i was thinking of the pana sd9
pofrani 3 years ago
The SD9 has the same issues with the AVCHD files as the Canon -- find some raw files to make sure you can work with them! The Canon is a really good camera compared to other consumer cameras but like all consumer cameras, has real drawbacks compared to pro cameras. Try before you buy!
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
Will this work on Windows movie maker???
deewill23 3 years ago
It didn't work with any of the Windows XP machines I had access to.... I think you need Pinnacle or Vegas or use the included software for limited editing.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
This isn't true. You simply need to install a capable codec (like the ones that come with ffdshow). Any recent PC can handle h.264 HD video. I've been messing with it for at least a couple years. Other than the PC misinformation, nice review!
bluesk1d 3 years ago
wait, this camera wont work on a black macbook???
mavericks417 3 years ago
It works -- a black Macbook is an intel machine, which is ok.
Powerbooks are PowerPC machines, which won't work.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
ok gotcha thanks
mavericks417 3 years ago
It does lack a viewfinder and the hotshoe isn't standard size, but they wanted to make it small. Everything else the reviewer complains about is subjective or is an issue with all similar cams. If he's going to complain about AVCHD, then that's too bad because everyone is moving to this.
The record button is in the same location as other AVCHD cams (Sony CX12, Pana SD9), ergonomics are the same (all same shape) and battery life is weak on all these cams too--its not just Canon.
DansCamcorder 3 years ago
sd9 any good????? hwo about the hv20 or hc7 how do they compare to the hf10
hallal55 3 years ago
I've never used sd9 or hc7 but I've used hv20 a lot. It's a great camera and the tape format is easier to work with for a lot of editing programs and computers. Plus you'll always have the tape for archive... it's easy to lose your originals from a flash-based camera if a drive crashes.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
DansCamcorder makes really good points. I was looking at the HF10 in comparison to prosumer cameras... compared to other consumer cams, it's great.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
does the HF100 make the same video format?
almostskater815 3 years ago
The HF100 is exactly the same as the HF10 except that it doesn't have any built-in memory (it's sd cards only) and it's gray instead of black.
The new HF11 is the same as the HF10 except it has more memory and one higher bitrate setting.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
can adobe cs3 edit the avchd format?
almostskater815 3 years ago
I tried it on after effects and sony vegas and they went really slow when I tried playing the movie on the programs. It was probably my computer, but don't let me get your hopes down. Try it yourself.
StephenNguyen 3 years ago
Found By: Selecting Time Line Clip-Edit Menu-Item Properties-Format-Done.
Your assistance was a life saver, sincere thanks.
ronbc8 3 years ago
I appreciate your review, being a proud HC 10 enthusiast. I'm editing on FCP ver. 6.0.4. I'm seeking advise on your recommended "Easy Set UP" settings, I have been using the format for Sony EX1 that is also 1920 1080p, It works but when you drop clips into a new sequence, a window shows stating it will convert automatically to the required format for best performance. However I Don't know what these settings are, as Easy Set UP window does not update to it's new setting
My Thanks.
Ron.
ronbc8 3 years ago
In the FCP browser window in list view, you can scroll over and see all the clip settings -- you might have to change the easy setup to match and then save it as a custom setup. Make sure you include the upper/lower/none setting for field dominance along with size and codec.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
would my computer be able to handle it? Intel cpu t2300 @ 1.66 ghz 980 Mhz 1.00 GB of RAM
mickk92 3 years ago
1gb of ram probably isn't enough.
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago
pinnacle studio 12 and sony vegas accept the avchd files!!
canoeclanner 3 years ago
do you think the HV20 is a better Choice ?
SoulReaper876 3 years ago
If you don't have the latest computer and software, the HV20 (now HV30) is a way better choice. Even if you do, there's a lot to be said for having tape archives!
HeraldVideo1 3 years ago