Canon VIXIA HF M31 Full HD Camcorder w/32GB Flash Memory

by Canon

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 2.4 x 2.7 x 4.9 inches ; 4 ounces
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B00322OP4K
• Item model number: HF M31
• Average Customer Review: 3.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (31 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,016 in Camera & Photo (See Top 100 in Camera & Photo)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: January 5, 2010

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

Compare All 2010 Canon Camcorders


The Canon VIXIA HF M31 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder features a 32GB internal flash drive and an SD memory card slot in an ultra-sleek, compact and lightweight body - it's a brilliant blend of capability and convenience. Canon's advanced imaging technologies, including a Genuine Canon 15x HD Video Lens and 3.89-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor, help to deliver high definition video and 3.3 megapixel photos with incredible detail and lifelike color. Sophisticated features such as Smart Auto "reads" the visual components of the scene you're shooting and chooses the best settings. Touch & Track allows you to achieve sharp focus and precise exposure for any subject, simply by touching the 2.7" Touch Panel LCD. And to complete the entertainment picture, 5.1-Channel Surround Sound ensures your audio is every bit as impressive as your video.

Flash Memory
The VIXIA HF M31 allows you to record up to 12 hours of clear high definition video to a 32GB internal flash drive or to a removable SD memory card. With Relay Recording, the camcorder automatically switches video recording from the internal drive to the SD memory card when the memory becomes full. No need then to worry about running out of recording time during a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime shot.
You’ll also have the flexibility of copying video from your VIXIA HF M31’s internal drive to the removable SD memory card. That makes it easy to insert the card into your computer or HDTV’s card reader and view your recorded footage immediately.
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. Press the record button and your VIXIA HF M31 starts recording video faster than you've ever seen before. In addition, when you review, you'll have quick access to your footage.

Another plus is the VIXIA HF M31's low power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. It's just what you need so you don't miss that pivotal play on the field or the moment when they say "I do."

While we certainly hope you keep your VIXIA HF M31 securely in your hand while shooting, if it 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

Stunning Image Quality
A Genuine Canon 15x HD Video Lens delivers unsurpassed image quality. The Canon Exclusive 3.89-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor captures video at 1920 x 1080 resolution and photos with astonishing detail, while the Canon Exclusive DIGIC DV III Image Processor provides the ultimate in color and imaging performance, with enhanced reproduction of difficult to capture purple and blue tones. Exceptionally lifelike tone and detail are captured thanks to 24Mbps Recording, which offers the highest bit rate in AVCHD. The VIXIA HF M31 not only captures images in Full HD, but records and outputs at 1920 x 1080 as well, so you get Full HD from lens to screen.

Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization with Powered IS
The VIXIA HF M31 features Canon’s proprietary Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization which provides continuous adjustment throughout the entire zoom range to correct a broad range of motion. Extra compensation is applied at wide-angle focal lengths to eliminate unwanted shaking which is common when walking. Together with the latest development, Powered IS, you’ll find an even higher level of compensation for subtle hand movement at the telephoto end of the zoom range. Powered IS can be engaged by pressing or holding the Powered IS button on the touch panel LCD.

Instant AF
A critical objective when shooting in high definition is achieving the sharpest focus possible. The VIXIA HF M31 camcorder features Canon's revolutionary Instant AF focusing system which offers a dramatic improvement in auto focus speed and accuracy, compared to traditional auto focus systems. The Instant AF feature uses an external sensor, in combination with Canon's auto focus system, to help significantly decrease the time it takes to find focus, even in low light conditions. This system achieves focus instantaneously, reducing focus "hunting." This is especially beneficial in high brightness or night shooting situations. In addition, with Instant AF it's possible to capture fast, accurate focusing even when following a moving subject.

To further enhance focusing capability the VIXIA HF M31 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. This is a feature normally found in professional broadcast-quality cameras.

2.7" Touch Panel LCD Screen
See exceptional detail with a sharp 211,000 dot screen delivering brilliant color together with touch panel control for faster and easier menu navigation. You’ll also have Touch & Track, which allows you to get precise focus and exposure on any subject - whether it’s people, vehicles, etc. by selecting your choice right on the touch panel LCD.

Smart Auto
Smart Auto makes shooting great video easier than ever before. Using the power of Canon’s DIGIC DV III Image Processor, the VIXIA HF M31 intelligently detects and analyzes faces, brightness, color, distance, and movement, then automatically selects the best settings for the scene. Whether you are capturing a sunset, a day at the beach, or a fast-paced soccer game, Smart Auto delivers exceptional accuracy, raising your video to the next level.

Touch & Track
Touch and Track delivers precise tracking of the focus and exposure on any subject- people, pets, vehicles and more. Simply select your point of interest on the Touch Panel LCD, and you will have your subject in sharp focus, regardless of where in the frame it moves during the shot – and, the exposure will be perfectly adjusted for subject and conditions. Touch & Track is the default setting. You can also choose to adjust focus or exposure independently by turning off Touch & Track, and turning on Touch Focus or Touch Exposure.
Touch Focus – allows the user to pinpoint a specific area to focus on. This function is similar to the Push AF feature found in professional camcorders, but can target a subject anywhere in the frame.

Touch Exposure – enables exposure to be locked or compensated for the area touched by the user.

Genuine Canon Face Detection
The same high quality Face Detection technology used in Canon digital cameras is available in the VIXIA HF M31 high definition camcorder. Up to 35 faces can be tracked automatically, ensuring razor-sharp focus and natural, accurate exposure. Of the faces tracked, 9 detection frames can be displayed at one time.

The system is in fact so smart that it will recognize faces turned downwards or sideways. 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.

Advanced Video Snapshot
Advanced Video Snapshot allows you to capture the highlights of a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a family milestone with the same ease as taking photos. Simply record a series of short video clips – or select your favorite clips while in Playback Mode – and blend in your favorite background music to create an exciting movie that will grab everyone’s attention. This version of Advanced Video Snapshot allows selectable recording time (2, 4, or 8 seconds). Additionally, audio from an external source such as an MP3 player can be played along with the Snapshot movie, and playback can be controlled from that source.

Easy Web Sharing
HD-to-SD Downconversion allows you to convert recorded high definition video to standard definition files while safely preserving the original HD video. These standard definition files make it even more convenient to edit, share video online, or create a DVD. The downconverted video can be transferred to your computer via traditional methods – i.e. USB connection, card slot – or wirelessly to sharing sites with an Eye-Fi SD memory card.

The VIXIA HF M31 is compatible with the Eye-Fi SD Memory Card. It’s possible to wirelessly transfer your down-converted video and photos to your computer, or upload them directly to online sharing sites in a few simple steps. Insert an Eye-Fi SD Memory Card into the SD card slot on the camcorder, configure your computer to select the target (e.g., Facebook, YouTube, Shutterfly, Flickr) site and you’re ready to share your standard definition files with family, friends, and the world!

Canon camcorders are not guaranteed to support Eye-Fi card functions (including wireless transfer). In case of an issue with an Eye-Fi card, please check with Eye-Fi, Inc. Outside of the United States and Canada, government approval is required to use Eye-Fi cards in many countries or regions. Without approval, use of the card is not permitted. If it is unclear whether the card has been approved for use in the area, please check with Eye-Fi, Inc.

3.3-megapixel Camera
Since Canon is acknowledged as a world leading maker of still image cameras, it’s not surprising that the VIXIA HF M31, in addition to being a brilliant camcorder, is also a superb 3.3 megapixel digital camera. Once again, Canon delivers features and technology that advance convenience and capability. The VIXIA HF M31’s Dual Shot makes it easier than ever to capture both video and photos. You’ll even be able to shoot 3.0 megapixel photos while shooting video at the same time with Simultaneous Photo Recording.

Auto Intelligent Auto Focus, AiAF, ensures sharp images and gives creative flexibility. Even when your subject isn't in the center of the frame, the VIXIA HF M31's 9-Point AiAF will automatically select from 9 metering frames on the screen to help bring images into sharp focus.

You can also choose from a range of exposure modes including: Auto, AV (aperture priority), TV (shutter priority), CINE and P (program).

For optimal exposure, the VIXIA HF M31 offers selectable metering patterns: Evaluative, Center-Weighted Average, and Spot. The AE Bracketing feature of the VIXIA HF M31 automatically takes three versions of the shot, with 'dark,' 'normal' and 'light' settings in ½ exposure steps so you may choose the one that best suits you.

The VIXIA HF M31 can capture a rapid succession of photos, just like the motor drive on a digital camera. Shoot up to 3 frames per second in the Continuous Mode, or a blazing 5 frames per second in the
High Speed Continuous Mode.

For the advanced digital photographer, the VIXIA HF M31 comes with a Histogram Display – a feature found in Canon's line of digital SLR cameras. The display allows you to see the brightness information of your still images, so you can adjust your exposures as you shoot.

With the Level Marker feature, it's easy to keep your camera level for more professional-looking photographs. The VIXIA HF M31's Grid Marker feature lets you compose your shot accurately, according to the grid in your viewfinder. Choose from two different colors for the grid to ensure that you see it, no matter what the background color of your shot is.

The versatile VIXIA HF M31 even lets you capture a still image from an already recorded movie. While playing the movie in your camcorder, simply press the photo button to capture a 1920 x 1080 photo onto an SD card or to internal memory. Additionally, the VIXIA HF M31 allows you to capture 30 photos from one second of video.

Your VIXIA HF M31's built-in flash lets you capture superb photos indoors and in low light conditions.

You can also easily burn DVDs of your photos taken with your VIXIA HF M31 as it is compatible with Canon's DW-100 DVD Burner. A one-cable connection is all it takes to send the files across and, with the click of a few buttons, your photos are ready to share with all.

24p & 30p Frame Modes
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 M31'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.

You would normally have to look to professional video cameras in order to have a sophisticated tool like 30p Progressive Mode at your command. In addition to the standard interlaced video frame rate of 60i, you may choose to set the VIXIA HF M31 to capture video in 30p, (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.

Terminals
To maximize the usefulness and versatility of the VIXIA HF M31, you’ll find a range of terminals to extend the capabilities of your camcorder. The Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe allows you to attach optional Canon accessories, such as the VL-5 Video Light, DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone, RA-V1 Remote Control Adapter, or SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone. Easy, one-cable connectivity to your HDTV is yours through the VIXIA HF M31’s HDMI Terminal which also supports CEC and x.v.Color. The built-in Microphone terminal with manual audio level control and Headphone terminal provide exceptional audio flexibility.

Audio
For the ultimate home theater experience, 5.1-Channel Surround Sound* allows you to capture audio quality that matches the stunning realism of your high definition video. The sound is captured from all directions (five different pickup sensors) so your home movies will look and sound more lifelike than ever before. The built-in Microphone terminal with manual audio level control and Headphone terminal also provide exceptional audio flexibility.

* Optional SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone is required

Compatible with Optional WP-V2 Waterproof Case
Take full advantage of the brilliant clarity and drama of HD video in the beauty of the underwater world with your VIXIA HF M31 thanks to the optional Canon WP-V2 Waterproof Case. Compact, light and custom designed especially for the VIXIA HF M31; it's waterproof to 130ft (40m). It has direct control buttons for record start/stop, telephoto and wide zoom, photo capture and preview, to let you make the most of the VIXIA HF M31's capability.

Additional Features
Intelligent Lithium-Ion Battery which accurately indicates remaining battery time down to the minute.

Built-in Video Light enhances your ability to shoot in difficult, low light conditions
Print/Share allows you to connect your camcorder directly to select Canon printers or any PictBridge-compatible printer with the supplied USB cable and with a touch of the Print/Share button, print directly from your VIXIA HF M31. Print/Share also makes it easy to transfer your photos to your computer. You can also easily burn DVDs of your photos taken with your VIXIA HF M31 as it is compatible with Canon's DW-100 DVD Burner. A one-cable connection is all it takes to send the files across and, with the click of a few buttons, your photos are ready to share with all.

Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software is bundled with the VIXIA HF M31.You can easily perform a variety of functions, including AVCHD Editing in which you can trim, reorder, and combine scenes, as well as add music, titles, and transitions. This software also allows you to play your AVCHD movies on your computer and will also let you share copies of your movie with friends and family through flash memory to hard drive copying. Transfer and store your movie onto your computer's hard drive with the software and easily convert your high definition video to standard definition video as well. Pixela ImageMixer 3SE will also assist you in converting video to the optimum resolution for transmission over the Internet.

With the Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Disc, you can burn your edited video onto Blu-ray disc, AVCHD DVDs, (which play in AVCHD compatible Blu-ray disc players), or onto Standard Definition DVDs. And to complement the VIXIA HF M31's Advanced Video Snapshot feature, a music CD containing royalty-free soundtracks is also provided.

* The bundled application is compatible with Windows XP and Windows Vista.

DVD Burner Compatible
You can also easily burn DVDs of the video shot with your VIXIA HF M31 as it is compatible with Canon's DW-100 DVD Burner. A one-cable connection is all it takes to send the files across and with the click of a few buttons, your videos will be burned to an AVCHD disc for play in a compatible DVD player.

AVCHD discs containing scenes recorded in MXP mode cannot be created with the optional DW-100 DVD Burner.

Compare All 2010 Canon Camcorders

Product Description

Features: Flash Memory Recording: The VIXIA HF M31 allows you to record up to 12 hours of video to a 32GB internal flash drive or to a removable SD memory card. With Relay Recording, the camcorder automatically switches video recording from the internal drive to the SD memory card when the memory becomes full. There's no need to worry about running out of recording time during a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime shot. You'll also have the flexibility of copying video from your VIXIA HF M31's internal drive to the removable SD memory card. That makes it easy to insert the card into your computer or HDTV's card reader and view your recorded footage immediately. 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 M31's low power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. And if your HF M31 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. Stunning HD Image Quality. A Genuine Canon 15x HD Video Lens delivers excellent image quality, while the Canon Exclusive 3.89MP HD CMOS Image Sensor captures video at 1920 x 1080 resolution and photos with astonishing detail, while the Canon Exclusive DIGIC DV III Image Processor provides impressive color and imaging performance, with enhanced reproduction of difficult to capture purple and blue tones. Exceptionally life-like tone and detail are captured thanks to 24Mb

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

164 of 166 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars 1st Review and lovin' it!, April 6, 2010

By 

Dennis R. Birchenough - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF M31 Full HD Camcorder w/32GB Flash Memory (Electronics)

Like most of the latest HD cameras for consumers, the camera is small and fits perfectly in my hand. It's very light when matched with the battery that comes with it and even with the BP-827 battery, it's still light enough to barely notice.

Speaking of batteries, the battery that comes with the M31, when turned on after a fresh recharge, shows 98minutes of battery time. The actual "real world" time you'll get will be dependent upon how much your zooming, re-playing recordings and overall "on" time. One could expect to have, safely, 60 minutes of recording time.

The Canon BP-827 Lithium Ion Battery Pack for Vixia HG, HF S & HF M Camcorders, after a fresh charge, shows 314minutes (5hrs 14 mins) worth of battery. The same cavet applies from above, and one could expect a solid 4hrs of recording time during real usage. Yes, the battery is pricey ($120) but the fact is: You ARE going to run out of battery when you consider how long most events you'll be recording are. Soccer games, European trips, weddings, high school graduations, etc. 1hr of battery is just not going to cut it for the majority of situations. But, the included 1hr battery will make a great backup battery to give you an extra hour of recording when your "main" battery dies, so it's not a complete waste. Get the bigger, extra battery. I got the Canon brand battery despite there being "generic/cheaper" ones out there.

The larger battery does weigh a slight bit more, but not too noticeable as the camera is already ultra-light in the first place. It also sticks out from the back of the camera about 2", but doesn't impeded any of the functions. To start/stop recording, your thumb, which would normally glide right across the back to the button, does have to go "around" the larger battery, but it's not a big deal.

Also, some may think the larger battery jutting out doesn't look as "sleek" or "cool". I think it looks fine. The battery is a nice matte black, with rounded edges and fits well, in my opinion. What doesn't look sleek or cool to me is having to carry around 3-4 extra batteries and stopping to swap out your dead battery every hour just so it looks "cool". That's gonna get old, really quick!

I also got the external charger, Canon 2590B002 CG-800 Lithium Ion Battery Charger for 800 Series Batteries, also a bit pricey for my tastes at $50. From what I've read, the charger cuts recharging time down about an hour. Besides, as you're battery is off to the side charging, you can still walk around and record with your backup battery. Otherwise, you'll be tethered to the wall as your battery charges directly inside the camera.

On the upside, if/when you upgrade the camera, if you stick with the Canon Vixia line, your batteries and charger will still work.

I also picked up a SanDisk Ultra 32Gb card for extra recording space. As long as you get a class 4 card, you'll have no problems. Class 6 is overkill and way more expensive.

Now back to the camera and how the amount of memory may be important.

There are two HD modes MXP(24Mbps) and FXP (17Mbps). As far as I can tell, the visual difference between the two are minimal, if there is a difference at all. MXP mode is most likely for "prosumers" who want/need bigger files for heavy post-editing of videos. In the camera world, I would relate this to a camera with 8 Megapixels vs 10 Megapixels. Is 10MP better? Yes. Are we ever going to print a billboard sized photograph? Probably not. So, if the extent of your video "editing" is maybe importing it to a program to do some fade in/outs, re-arrange scenes, etc, FXP is most likely just fine for you. However, if you want to do some George Lucas type filming with green screens and do some heavy post-processing than you'll probably want to film in MXP. But then again, if you really plan on doing things that extensive, you'd probably be better off purchasing a pro-camera, especially to get better low-light resolution.

Also, if you're recording in MXP, you'll only get about 2hrs 55 mins worth of recording time from the 32Gb internal memory, or 5hrs 50 mins with an extra 32Gb card. Recording in FXP mode will extend your record time to 4hrs 10 mins with the internal memory alone and an extra 32Gb card will get you a full 8hrs 20 mins recording time.

I eluded to the low-light resolution earlier. If you want a small, compact camera, the CMOS sensor (this is your image sensor) has to be small as well. The smaller the sensor, *usually* the worse the low-light recording capability. The M31 is 1/4 inch in size, typical for most camcorders of this size. It actually does pretty well in low-light situations and I am very satisfied. As the lighting situation decreases, the resolution for most cameras will start to get a tiny bit grainy (think slight static). As the light decreases more, the picture will get more and more grainy. To counter this, simply make sure the room is well lit. Also, zooming during low-lit locations will enhance the graininess, so avoid this when possible.

Or, you can spend nearly twice as much ($600) and get the Canon S21 (64Gb internal memory, touch screen, 3.5" viewing screen and a 1/2.6 inch CMOS sensor). The S21 will have better low-light performance, but at some point, as the light gets dimmer and dimmer, graininess WILL start to creep into the image. If you need/want pure perfection in all lighting conditions, then you're looking at spending $4K and up for a pro-camera. The S100, S10 and S11 also have larger image sensors, but don't have all the features of the new S2x or M3x lines.

With that said, the quality of the video is spectacular, especially when in a well lit environment or outdoors.

The 15X zoom is pretty impressive. I also like how the zoom speed varies depending on how much pressure is applied to the control. I can make it slowly zoom in/out or quickly...full control. Definitely a plus.

The HDMI/Component output is hidden beneath some faux leather, on the left side of the camera where you hold the camera. It took me awhile to find it (No, of course I didn't read the manual!) but I do like how it's in an inconspicuous location. It has connections for a mini-HDMI(cable not included), USB(cable included) and component out (cable included to RGB connections).

It's a little difficult to access the power button control with the fingers from your right hand. With a little adjustment to the hand strap, all the buttons on the top can be reached, it just took a little messing with.

The touch screen display takes a little while to get use to. My fiancé has an iPhone so I'm use to scrolling around the touch screen. However, when I tried to scroll around on this screen, it kept selecting the various functions. Again, once you get use to how to scroll around, it's pretty easy, just a bit of a learning curve. Probably more so for the technologically challenged.

Powered IS works well when zooming/zoomed, however I think using two hands to hold the camera probably helps just as much.

Relay Recording seems like a no brainer feature, I can't imagine why this wasn't incorporated in previous models/brands. Automatically and seamlessly records to you your SD card when the internal memory is full. HOWEVER, Relay recording is automatically DEACTIVATED when the camcorder is turned off or you switch from MXP to FXP or any other number of reasons. There should be an option to enable this ALL the time. Maybe this feature can be added with a firmware upgrade. This is actually the only annoying thing I could find.

Finally, I'd like to dispell a "negative" that I read in past reviews about the Vixia's shutters 'rattling' because they were loose. Yeah, it rattles, but seriously, if this is the only thing you can pick out as a "negative" for the camera, you're really reaching!! I can barely hear this "rattle", it's not annoying, it would be drowned out by the simple scuffing of your feet on the side walk, a gentle breeze, or breathing. It only occurs when it's OFF and absolutely does NOT impact the function of the camera. I wouldn't even have made a note of it, but because someone else had mentioned it in other reviews on other sites, I wanted to address it. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being a deal breaker, this "rattling" is a 1. I can't even believe someone mentioned it.

To recap: Overall, I'm very happy with this camera and would highly recommend it!! I'll try to give an update after using it at my wedding at the end of May.

The only thing I don't like is the fact that relay recording disables after you turn the camera off or change operations.

From an accessory standpoint, I wish it came with an HDMI connection cable, but I may have one lying around here somewhere anyways.

None of the "negatives" are deal breakers in my opinion. This is a solid camera!

51 of 52 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Glad to Meet you Vixia M31, April 16, 2010

By 

C. Mitchell "Author" (Washington, DC) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF M31 Full HD Camcorder w/32GB Flash Memory (Electronics)

I purchased my Canon Vixia M31 several weeks ago and was drawn to it because it records in HD and has a 32 GB built in memory. I understand the only difference from the M30 is that it only has 8 GB of memory. Anyway, this is not my first camcorder, so I opted to explore the features of the M31 before reading the manual and discovered it was quite easy to operate at a glance.

When I discovered the touch screen menu, I thought "Oh no, what have I gotten myself into". Alas, a suggestion to use a stylus made my experience much better. It works like a charm and the touch menu is one of my highlights of the camcorder. Canon should have thrown one in the box.

Overall, the M31 is excellent for me. The video footage I have taken thus far is awesome! There are five different recording modes. The length of storage and battery life depends on which one you use. Based on my needs, I do not think I'll be using anything lower than the FXP mode.

The software (Pixela, ImageMixer 3) that comes with the camcorder is rather simple to operate. The software offers the MPEG2 or WMV formats to save your footage. This does not work for me because it severely degrades the video footage and I cannot use it for my projects. Fortunately, I already own Adobe Premiere CS4 which reads the MTS format. However, this software is expensive, so I would not recommend going out to purchase it just to use with this camcorder.

You will love the YouTube upload feature that comes with ImageMixer. However, at a glance, using ImageMixer, I have yet to find a feature allowing me to edit certain portions of the footage before uploading to YouTube. This is a bummer because I'd rather be able to make minor edits using ImagMixer rather than going through the trouble of working with Adobe Premiere (especially for something minor).

Anyway, I was able to select the clips I wanted to upload to YouTube and the software takes you to the YouTube login screen, then converts the footage to WMV and uploads on the spot. Real nice!

The camera is so small it is easy to handle especially when using the zoom feature. I decided to use the zoom feature to capture the Ken Burns effect (gives the effect that a still shot is moving). So, for practice I took a still shot and zoomed in real close, then started zooming out until the entire photo was in view. It worked like a charm and I was able to steady my hand throughout the entire process.

Pros:

Small, easy to handle (convenient to carry on a road trip)
Zoom feature
Quality footage
Onscreen Touch Menu
Quick Playback on television using HDMI cable
Easy to transfer video to computer

Cons:
Battery charger is the actual camera (I purchased a separate charger for the convenience of being able to use my camera while my extra battery pack charges)

********************

As of September 2010, I have since purchased another Canon Vixia M31 because it is important that I own two identical cameras to use during a two camera shoot.

I am quite pleased with how the video displays on my flat screen TV. When I share my video portfolio with potential clients, they are always impressed with the quality of the lens.

To enhance the audio, I purchased the Canon SM-V1 detachable 5-1 Channel surround microphone. It is a wonderful enhancement and adds the extra professional touch to the final video.

18 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars HD camcorder perfected, June 2, 2010

By 

CM (CA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF M31 Full HD Camcorder w/32GB Flash Memory (Electronics)

I bought and own the M31 and I am absolutely excited about it. It's to the point where I actually think of it when I wake up. It's really that good and that fun to use.

Not only does it turn out 1080 footage, it really captures in 1080. It doesn't capture in some lesser resolution and upconverts like Canon's R series. This is real 1080 HD.

I've done quite a bit of video capture already and the quality and detail is brilliant. The auto focus works very quickly. Adjusting the speed of zooming in and out is easy with the zoom lever on top of the camcorder. It's designed like those on most camcorders.

And the sound! I recorded a bird from a distance that chirped. When I played it back, that chirp was heard very clearly. The camcorder seems to capture individual sounds from a quiet background very clearly.

And the playback! The screen is perfect for viewing footage. And the sound is nice and loud if you need it to be! Just turn up the volume. It's not super quiet when turned all the way up like many other camcorders or cameras with video modes. I played the footage of the bird on the camcorder and it was seriously like hearing the bird itself.

And the screen is a touch screen! Thank you Canon! At first it takes getting used to, especially if you're new to touch screens like I am. If you're trying to scroll through menus that go up and down, touch the screen and rub it up and down. This isn't a cloggy touch screen with a faint sense of control like your local ATM machine screen. This screen is smooth to work with! The learning curve for this may vary for people but for me it was around a few minutes.

The hand strap is good. I have no problems with it. Adjustable. I like it a little loose so I can pull it down my hand. Works great for me.

If you want to hear with headphones, be sure to switch the setting from AV to headphones. Then you won't hear the interference or pink noise type of sound. Instead you'll hear your live feed or playback with excellent clarity.

Don't worry about getting a hundred dollar 4 hour or whatever battery yet. Unless you need to immediately have this thing on for multiple hours. I went around capturing video footage a few minutes at a time. Captured some random conversations in public. Encounters with people's dogs. Turned the camcorder off when I wasn't capturing video for a while. I still had plenty of battery juice left. If you're thinking "oh the included battery is useless, I have to add a hundred bucks to the budget for a better one," just plan for that better battery later. Get this camcorder and have fun now. I don't work for Canon or have anything to do with them other than having bought a few other products that they made. And I'm saying this camcorder is giving me so much fun.

When you get the camcorder, invest in a ten dollar 37mm UV filter. Do this for the main purpose of protecting and sealing the lens from dust, contact with physical objects, scratches, marks, damage, etc. If it happens to the filter, big deal. It's 10 or 15 bucks. Get two or three to start with.

May want to get a protective cover for the touch screen but it's not as big a deal there.

Oh, if you use it indoors and use the DC and plug it into the wall, the plug that goes into the camcorder is pretty secure. It won't fall off as easily as some other ones like Sony's Mini DV camcorders.

Join the other Canon Vixia junkies on YouTube and upload some 1080 HD videos for us to see!