Canon VIXIA HF10 Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder with 16 GB Internal Flash Memory and 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

by Canon

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 5.1 x 2.9 x 2.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B001144JQU
• Item model number: HF10
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (134 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,904 in Camera & Photo (See Top 100 in Camera & Photo)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: October 2, 2001

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

From the Manufacturer

From Canon's long history of optical excellence, advanced image processing, superb performance and technological innovation in photographic and broadcast television cameras comes the latest in high definition camcorders.

Now, with the light, compact Canon VIXIA HF10, you can have stunning AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) format recording with the ease and numerous benefits of Flash Memory. It's used in some of the world's most innovative electronic products such as laptop computers, MP3 players, PDAs and cell phones. Canon offers the best in Flash Memory with Dual Flash Memory- record to both the camcorder's 16 GB internal memory and a removable SDHC card, extending your available recording space and offering added flexibility in file transfer and playback.

Add to that the VIXIA HF10's Canon Exclusive features such as our own 3.3 Megapixel Full HD CMOS sensor and advanced DIGIC DV II Image Processor, SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization, Instant Auto Focus, our 2.7-inch Wide screen Multi-Angle Vivid LCD and the Genuine Canon 12x HD video zoom lens and you have a Flash Memory camcorder that's hard to beat and unmistakably Canon.

Canon VIXIA HF10 Highlights

AVCHD Flash Memory in a Compact Size The VIXIA HF10 is one of Canon's first AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) format Flash Memory camcorders. AVCHD uses an MPEG-4 AVC (H.264) video codec, recording true 1080 High Definition resolution video. An advantage of the AVCHD format is that it captures twice as much video using less storage, which enhances the extended recording time possible with Flash Memory, up to 6 hours 5 minutes in LP mode with the internal memory.

The advantages of Flash Memory go beyond the added recording time. You'll also appreciate the quick response time, because it doesn't have to wait for moving parts. Press the record button and your VIXIA HF10 starts recording video faster than you've ever seen before. In addition, when you review your footage, it will come up more quickly as well.

Another plus is the VIXIA HF10's lower 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 HF10 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 due to damage to your recording media or the moving parts in other camcorders.

Making this new technology even more convenient to use is the VIXIA HF10's compact size and light weight. Measuring only 2.9-inches wide, 2.5-inches high and 5.1-inches deep, it combines big video storage capacity in a small, easy to carry body.

Please note: 1920 x 1080 movie recording requires a Class 4 or higher memory card. For other recording formats, a Class 2 or higher card is recommended. Also, movie recording requires cards with 128 MB of memory or more. Cards made by Toshiba, SanDisk or Matsushita are recommended. No particular restrictions apply for still images.

Dual Flash Memory: 16GB internal Flash drive & SDHC card slot What makes the VIXIA HF10 stand out in the category of Flash Memory camcorders is its Dual Memory capability. You can capture video on both the camcorder's internal 16 GB Flash Memory as well as onto an SDHC Memory Card.

Video stored on the internal memory can also be copied onto the memory card which can then be inserted into your computer or HDTV's card reader slot for immediate viewing. It is also possible to transfer still images recorded to the SDHC card to the internal memory.

You can also use higher capacity memory cards to further increase the video storage of your VIXIA HF10.

3.3 Megapixel Full HD CMOS Sensor The VIXIA HF10 captures 1920x1080 High Definition video through its Canon designed and manufactured 1/3.2" 3.3 Megapixel Full HD CMOS image sensor, similar to the CMOS image sensors in Canon's EOS Series Digital SLR cameras.

Compared to a CCD, the VIXIA HF10's CMOS's high color resolution and advanced color reproduction gives brilliant results. It is also unique in featuring Canon's proprietary noise reduction technologies for crisp, sharp images. Low noise technology also means that even in dimly lit scenes, the signal from each pixel is as pure as possible, with minimal noise or other aberrations. It's the ideal sensor for HD.

The VIXIA HF10 uses an RGB Primary Color Filter with Bayer Placement Pattern that separates light into red, green and blue color components. This results in vibrant images with deep, rich, accurate color and natural-looking tones similar to what you'd obtain from 3CCD camcorders. In addition, the Bayer Placement Pattern delivers sharp high definition images with true-to-life color reproduction. As an added benefit, the CMOS sensor provides outstanding image capture in low light conditions.

Full HD Lens-to-Screen (1920 x 1080 Capture and Recording) The Canon VIXIA HF10 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. Your memories are preserved in stunning clarity, and ready for playback on your HDTV.

Genuine Canon 12x HD Video Zoom Lens For over 70 years Canon has been producing exceptional photographic lenses that are synonymous with unsurpassed optical performance. Because of Genuine Canon Optics, every Canon broadcast lens, 35mm film camera, digital camera and camcorder assures brilliant optical quality -- and the VIXIA HF10 is no exception.

The VIXIA HF10 comes with an outstanding High Definition video lens -- a 12x HD Genuine Canon zoom. It's the lens you need to record long shots of your child on the soccer field, wide shots of beautiful landscapes, and everything in-between. And because it comes with four zoom speeds, three pre-set and one variable, you always get smooth, steady, professional looking zoom shots.

Super Spectra Coating technology results in images with minimal flare and ghosting. Plus, the new lens' aspheric design reduces aberration and increases resolution, ensuring crisp, sharp video and enhancing the HD image quality. Not only that, but a new gradation neutral density (ND) system gives you better exposures in bright shooting situations.

In addition, for those times when you need to get a particular shot from a very long distance, this flexible lens also has a 200x digital zoom.

DIGIC DV II Image Processor

The Canon DIGIC DV II Image Processor is the next generation of Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV signal processing technology. Designed specifically for HD, DIGIC DV II ensures optimal image quality. It also ensures optimal image quality for still images, even though video and still images have different color requirements. DIGIC DV II is just another one of Canon's advanced technologies that make the VIXIA HF10 an exceptional performer.

Thanks to Canon DIGIC DV II image processing, the VIXIA HF10 produces video with improved color reproduction -- especially in skin tones, and dark and light scenes. It also uses a hybrid noise reduction system that employs two types of noise reduction -- for high definition images that are crystal clear.

Plus, the Canon DIGIC DV II Image Processor features improved continuous shooting of digital photographs with the VIXIA HF10. You can shoot five (3.1 Megapixel) still images per second, and enjoy faster processing of your images to your memory card (1.4x normal card; 2.5x Hi Speed card). It also helps lower power consumption for longer battery life.

Shoot five still images per second

SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization The high-resolution images of High Definition video demand a steady hand. It's easier to get those clear, steady images with the VIXIA HF10, thanks to Canon's innovative SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization. It combines gyro- and image-sensors to give image stabilization through a wider range of camera motions. Some image stabilization systems correct one type of camera motion or vibration better than another. But Canon's SuperRange OIS corrects for a wide range of camcorder motion: the fast vibration you'd experience while recording from a moving car; the medium-speed motion of hand-held recording; and the slower motion of body sway. No matter what you're recording and how you're recording it, the VIXIA HF10's stabilization design corrects camcorder shake instantly. SuperRange OIS also delivers steady images when shooting at long focal lengths.

In addition, optical stabilization keeps your shot steady without a loss in image quality -- something that can't be said for electronic image stabilization. And image stabilization isn't just for video; you can even use it for taking sharper, clearer digital photographs with your VIXIA HF10. Thanks to Canon's expertise, it's easy to eliminate one of the telltale signs of amateur video and photography.

Instant AF (Auto Focus) Another critical objective when shooting in High Definition is achieving a very sharp focus. The VIXIA HF10 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." The benefits of Instant AF are especially seen in high brightness and night shooting situations. With Instant AF, it's possible to capture fast, accurate focusing, even when following a moving subject.

2.7-inch LCD display

2.7-inch Multi-Angle Vivid Wide screen LCD The 2.7-inch Multi-Angle Vivid Wide screen LCD on the VIXIA HF10 lets you see more of what your camcorder is recording. Using a hard coat Anti-Reflection surface and improved color reproduction, the scene in the viewfinder is a more accurate indication of what you're capturing in the camcorder. An added benefit of this Canon Exclusive is the wider range of viewing angle possible with this new LCD screen. With less glare and deeper contrasts, groups of people can gather around it and see the image displayed more clearly than ever before.

Superb Shooting Control

Variable Zoom Speed Control Another sure sign of amateur video is the unsteady zoom shot. But with the VIXIA HF10's zoom control, you simply select one of the four zoom speeds (three pre-set, one variable) for smooth, steady, professional looking zooms.

Level and Grid MarkersWith the Level Marker feature, it's easy to keep your camera level for more professional looking video. Line up any horizontal lines in your shot -- such as the horizon -- to the marker and you can be sure your camcorder is level.

The VIXIA HF10's Grid Marker feature lets you compose your shot accurately, according to the grid in your viewfinder. You can even choose from two different colors for the grid. This ensures that you see the grid, no matter what the background color of your shot is.

Program AE Mode For the best exposure for various situations, the VIXIA HF10's Program AE mode will automatically adjust the settings to compensate for the conditions and subject. Choose from Portrait, Sports, Night, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Spotlight and Fireworks. You won't have to guess if you're capturing all the action just the way you want it, the VIXIA HF10 will do it for you.

Change settings to compensate for conditions, such as night or snow

Low Light Performance Some of the most magical shots are taken at the end of the day or long after the sun has set. You won't miss any of them, thanks to the VIXIA HF10's mini video light. The light lets you shoot subjects in color in low light up to 4.9 feet away. So, whether it's a shot of a sleeping baby, or a dramatic skyline at night, the VIXIA HF10 captures all the moments you want to record.

Manual Audio Level Control To make your videos sound as good as they look, the VIXIA HF10 offers a built-in audio meter and manual audio level adjustment. You'll be able to tell at a glance if the sound you're hearing is being recorded the way you want it and a simple control allows you to change the audio level if it's not.

DVD Burner Compatible You can also easily burn DVDs of the video shot with your VIXIA HF10 as it is compatible with Canon's new 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.

24p Cinema Mode enables all aspiring movie makers 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 HF10's CINEMA 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.

30p Progressive Mode This is a unique feature that only Canon offers in the consumer camcorder market. You would otherwise have to look to professional video cameras in order to have this sophisticated tool at your command. In addition to the standard interlaced video frame rate of 60i, you may choose to set the VIXIA HV30 to capture video in 30p which is (30 progressive frames) particularly useful for footage to be used on the Internet. In addition, this setting gives enhanced quality to still images captured after recording. Excellent for action shots and sports.
Stunning Digital Photography The VIXIA HF10 has many advanced photo features which make it a camera that rivals other state-of-the-art digital cameras. You get the best of both video and photos.

3.1 Megapixel Photos The same Canon exclusive CMOS image sensor that ensures sharp, vivid HD video also gives you brilliant digital photographs. Like the CMOS image sensors in Canon's EOS Series digital SLR cameras, the VIXIA HF10's image sensor results in outstanding digital photographs. It gives an impressive resolution of 3.1 Megapixel for sharp, crisp still images.

Canon DIGIC DV II Image Processor Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV II Image Processor features improved continuous shooting of digital photographs with the VIXIA HF10. You can shoot 5 (3.1 Megapixel) still images per second, and enjoy faster processing of your images to your memory card (1.4x normal card; 2.5x Hi Speed card).

Auto Exposure Modes Like any good digital still camera, the VIXIA HF10 lets you choose from a range of exposure modes. Auto mode automatically sets the exposure, letting you concentrate on your subject. AV (aperture priority) mode lets you control depth of field by letting you choose the aperture. TV (shutter priority) mode lets you select the shutter speed for sharp, action shots. In P (program) mode, the camcorder adjusts camera settings automatically.

Simultaneous Photo Recording With the VIXIA HF10, you can record HD video and capture a 2 Megapixel photo to a memory card--simultaneously. Simply press the photo button and you've got an e-mail ready digital photo to share with friends and family.

Histogram Display For the advanced digital photographer, the VIXIA HF10 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.

Still Capture from Flash Memory The versatile VIXIA HF10 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 2.07 Megapixel 16:9 still frame onto an SD/SDHC card or to Built-in Memory. It's another way the VIXIA HF10 lets you enjoy and share your precious memories.

Built-in Flash Your VIXIA HF10's built-in flash lets you capture superb photos indoors and in low light conditions. The VIXIA HF10 also features red eye reduction.

Mini HDMI Terminal and Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe With the VIXIA HF10, sharing your High Definition video on your HD television is easier than ever. Only a single cable connects your camcorder to your TV for the highest quality playback (video and audio).

Another pro-level feature of the VIXIA HF10 is the Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe on the camcorder. At about half the size of Canon's Advanced Accessory shoe, this feature allows you to attach extras such as a video light or directional stereo microphone without additional wires or batteries. Using the proper accessories can greatly enhance the production values of the video you shoot.

Share Your Photos Your VIXIA HF10 comes with features that make it simple to share your still photos.

• Print/Share Print/Share turns your VIXIA HF10 into a photo lab in the palm of your hand. Simply connect your camcorder directly to select Canon printers or any PictBridge-compatible printer with the supplied USB cable. Then, with a simple touch of the Print/Share button, print directly from your VIXIA HF10 without going through a computer. Print/Share also makes it easy to transfer your still images to your computer. Simply connect your VIXIA HF10 and your computer, press the Print/Share button and your photos are downloaded to your computer.
• SD/SDHC Memory Card The VIXIA HF10 makes it easy to store digital photos onto an SD/SDHC Memory Card
• DVD Burner Compatible You can also easily burn DVDs of your still photos taken with your VIXIA HF10 as it is compatible with Canon's new 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.

Bundled Pixela ImageMixer Software The Canon VIXIA HF10 High Definition Camcorder is bundled with a powerful software suite from Pixela ImageMixer. 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 also will 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.

This software will also assist you in converting video to the optimum resolution for transmission over the Internet.

Please note: The bundled application is compatible with Windows XP and Windows Vista

Additional Features

• The "Intelligent" Lithium-ion battery which powers the VIXIA HF10 is a major, and useful, advance. It not only more accurately tracks remaining battery life, it also gives a display in minutes remaining. It will allow you to better plan your shooting, so you won't be caught out with a battery that suddenly goes from "half" to "empty".
• The Built-in Electronic Lens Cover means you never have to go looking for your lens cover again. Turn your camcorder on and the lens cover automatically opens. Turn it off, and the cover closes.
• USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Terminal for digital video streaming and ultra-fast transfer of movies and photos.
• Wireless Remote Control lets you operate your VIXIA HF10 from a distance, so you don't have to be left out of the picture.
• 1 Year Parts And Labor Limited Warranty provides protection long after other manufacturers' warranties expire.

What's in the Box:

• Canon VIXIA HF10 Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder
• BP-809 Battery Pack (with Terminal Cover)
• CA-570 Compact Power Adapter
• STV-250 N Stereo Video Cable
• WL-D88 Wireless Controller
• IFC-400PCU USB Cable
• CTC-100/S Component Cable
• Digital Video Solution Disc for Windows and Macintosh
• Pixela ImageMixer(TM) 3SE Disc

Product Description

V2)CANON HF10 16GB FLASH HD CAMCORDR

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

146 of 150 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Finally an AVCHD Camcorder worth buying, April 3, 2008

By 

Educated Parent (Bethesda, MD United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF10 Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder with 16 GB Internal Flash Memory and 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom (Electronics)

I had the award-winning HDV (tape-based) HV20 prior to this, and the HF10 is almost indistinguishable in terms of image quality. Given the dramatic difference in image data between an HDV image and an AVC image, that means this is one heck of a camcorder. I have tried out other AVC camcorders and have been really disappointed. Not so here, and I purchased this one. It has 24p and 30p recording, in addition to 60i. (Don't be confused by Canon's nomenclature, it is true 24p, just recorded in interlaced 60i.) The cinema mode has a bit of a wash-out effect on colors. The camcorder is surprisingly small. Power save mode is great, and is virtually instantaneously on when the LCD screen is opened. One warning about AVC in general, if you don't have a fast computer, it will grind it to a halt. I have a quad-core with 4 gig RAM and editing is fine, but I wouldn't want to use an old computer. Sony Vegas works great with the files. Wish the camcorder automatically saved to the SDHC card when the internal storage was full. Otherwise, this is the best thought out camcorder since my DVX-100. Nice to occasionally see consumer products worth their expense.

63 of 64 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars How to import video into iMovie on the Mac, July 16, 2008

By 

J. W. Hoelter (Mill Valley, CA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF10 Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder with 16 GB Internal Flash Memory and 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom (Electronics)

This is a marvelous camcorder. Rather than repeat what some of the other reviews have mentioned, I thought I'd explain how to import video on the Mac, because it wasn't obvious to me. First, you must have an Intel based Mac running Mac OS X 10.5 (Leopard). You also need iMovie '08, which comes with new Macs. If you're running an older version of Mac OS X (such as Tiger) or have an older version of iMovie, or have a PowerPC based Mac, you won't be able to import video from this camera.

To import video, attach the camcorder to the Mac with the USB cable that's included with the camcorder. Make sure you plug your camcorder into AC power, running from the battery won't work. Set the mode dial on the camera to video playback (the little blue camcorder icon). Turn on the camcorder. Now open the LCD display on the camcorder, and you'll see it's asking you a question: use the joystick to choose "computer" for where you're connecting the USB cable. I spent some time the first time I wanted to import wondering why iMovie couldn't see the camcorder until I finally tried opening the LCD screen and noticed this question. Once you've made this choice, iMovie will detect the camcorder and will be able to import video, and you can do the rest from iMovie.

121 of 129 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Very nice camera. Be aware of AVCHD limitations., May 28, 2008

By 

Mark (North Carolina, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF10 Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder with 16 GB Internal Flash Memory and 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom (Electronics)

This is a fantastic camera but people need to have more realistic expectations of what to expect from AVCHD. It is a highly compressed format so using this camera in low-light conditions is going to produce pretty "grainy" results. In good lighting AVCHD output from this camera can produce some really great looking results in HD but don't kid yourself into thinking you're going to get professional HDTV quality. This is a point-and-shoot.

I love the camera, especially how fast it focuses in good light, so I'm going to concentrate on what some of the other reviewers said to correct some misconceptions.

I use both Macs and PC and I have to tell you that you that PCs suck for AVCHD - you will waste a lot of time and pull your hair out. I'm sure PC video software vendors will address this eventually, but seriously folks if you want to do this the easy way get an Intel-based Mac (caveat: only Intel based machines using Leopard support AVCHD) and use either iMovie or Final Cut Express 4. Both of these programs (iMovie 08 and FCE4) just LOVE this camera (and two other Sony AVCHD cameras I've tried as well) and they work like a charm. Video making has never been this easy. FCE4 lets you mix AVHCD, HDV and SD video on the same timeline and save in whatever format you want so it's worth the $200 if you want to do that or have more exacting control over your videos. It is basically a (lightly) stripped-down version of Apple's excellent professional video software (Final Cut Pro) and it is very good. For most home videos iMovie 08 (which comes in iLife 08) will be just fine.

I've had no problem transferring the movies directly from the camera but, as mentioned earlier, you do need to have the camera plugged into the AC to do it. You can avoid plugging the camera into your Mac to transfer the files if you're only recording on SDHC cards, rather than internal memory on the HF10, but it works just fine. For this reason I would recommend buying the HF100 (over the HF10) and getting an extra 16Gb memory card or two. You will save money that way and have more flexibility. I bought the HF10 because I had to have it the next day and, at the time, the HF100s were delayed a bit. Transcend's excellent 16Gb SDHC Class 6 card comes with a nifty little card reader for only $78.98 here on Amazon, you can get two of them for less than the $200 difference in price between the HF10 and HF100 so you'll have 32gb to work with instead of 16gb for less money. I don't mind having the internal memory as a backup but you pay more than it is worth for it.

The video camera is just acting like a USB reader when you connect it to your Mac anyway - it is the file layouts that the software recognizes. When read in and converted to Apple Intermediate Codec at 1920x1080 they will balloon in size. If you want to store the raw video in a more compressed way you can simply copy the root directory of the card to another directory and copy it back again later. If you're working with AVCHD you need to buy the biggest hard drives you can afford. 60 minutes of video will use up something like 50Gb of storage on your Mac when converted to 1920x1080. If you just want great looking home video to show on your HDTV, but don't want to go broke on hard drives, Apple offers to import the movies at a slightly lower resolution (960x540) which takes up a LOT less space with very little drop in quality. I have been making home videos and showing them on an Apple TV at that resolution and they look stunning. The quality difference between that resolution and full HD isn't that big of a deal.

If want to try to get truly professional-quality video you should avoid AVCHD cameras and stick to the HDV format concentrating on cameras with larger sensors. But this is great camera for HD home videos at a great price.

The user interface on this camera is slow and clunky. Sony's AVCHD cameras have a better interface (using a touch screen) but you can still watch back the videos (which is the main thing you'll do) and it beats the heck out of a tape camera. I wish they had added a dial or button set for adjust exposure and/or backlighting control on the camera. The joystick works surprisingly well for this however in bright light the screen gets washed out enough that it is hard to tell if your exposure is really that great or not. This is where a viewfinder would really help. But these are minor nits because the camera does a good job at exposure control on its own.

As I said earlier this is a very compact point-and-shoot camera that shoots HD video and for that it's excellent.