Canon VIXIA HFS100 HD Flash Memory Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom - 2009 MODEL

by Canon

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 2.7 x 2.8 x 5.4 inches ; 1 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B001OI2YZQ
• Item model number: 3569B001AA
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (83 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,222 in Camera & Photo (See Top 100 in Camera & Photo)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: January 5, 2009

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

Canon has a well-known and highly-regarded reputation for optical excellence, advanced image processing, superb performance and technological innovation, built on our legendary photographic and broadcast television lenses. Based on that experience, we bring the latest in high-definition camcorders. The Canon VIXIA HF S100 Flash Memory camcorder is one such example.

The VIXIA HF S100 delivers brilliant video and photos through a new Canon exclusive 8.59-megapixel CMOS image sensor and the latest version of our advanced image processor, DIGIC DV III. It combines lightweight, compact size and the ease and convenience of Flash Memory. This technology, the same used in advanced laptop computers, MP3 players, PDAs and cell phones, allows the VIXIA HF S100 to record up to 6 hours of crisp, high-definition video to a removable SDHC card. You have extended available recording space and more flexibility in file transfer and playback.

What's more, the VIXIA HF S100 allows you to record at up to 24Mbps, the highest bit rate in AVCHD format, for the highest quality image. The VIXIA HF S100's Canon Exclusive features - such as the Genuine Canon 10x HD video lens, sophisticated Genuine Canon Face Detection capability, SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization and a host of new control and creative options - makes our Flash Memory camcorder unmistakably Canon.

Canon HF S100 Highlights

Record HD Video Directly to Removable SDHC Memory Card

Capture outstanding high definition video directly to a removable SDHC Memory Card with the VIXIA HF S100. It's easy and convenient - you can then remove the card and place it into your computer or HDTV's card reader slot for immediate viewing.

You can also use higher capacity memory cards to further increase the video storage of your VIXIA HF S100. It's a fast and simple way to share your memories.

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 HF S100 starts recording video faster than you've ever seen before. In addition, you'll have faster access to your recorded scenes as well.

Another plus is the VIXIA HF S100'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 S100 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 found in other camcorders.

_{* 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.}

Genuine Canon 10x HD Video 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, digital camera and camcorder assures brilliant optical quality - and the VIXIA HF S100 is no exception.

The VIXIA HF S100 comes with an outstanding High Definition video lens - a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens. 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 lens' aspheric design reduces aberration and increases resolution, ensuring crisp, sharp video and enhancing the HD image quality. Additionally, a gradation neutral density (ND) system gives you better exposures in bright shooting situations.

A built-in 1.7x Digital Tele-converter provides an extended telephoto range, while still retaining the renowned Canon image quality. 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.

Canon Exclusive: 1/2.6-inch, 8.59-Megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor

The VIXIA HF S100 captures 1920 x 1080 High Definition video through its Canon designed and manufactured 1/2.6-inch, 8.59-megapixel HD CMOS image sensor, similar to the CMOS image sensors in Canon's EOS Series digital SLR cameras.

The VIXIA HF S100's powerful CMOS image sensor provides high color resolution and advanced color reproduction for 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 HF S100 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.

Canon Exclusive: DIGIC DV III Image Processor

DIGIC DV III is Canon's most advanced HD image processor ever, helping to deliver enhanced image quality, true color production for both video and photos, and a sophisticated noise reduction system for exceptional low-light performance. It is also the high-speed engine which powers a variety of new Canon technologies including the 8.0 Megapixel photo capture, 6.0 Megapixel Simultaneous Photo Recording, a new Advanced Auto Exposure system and Genuine Canon Face Detection.

Plus, the Canon DIGIC DV III Image Processor allows continuous shooting of digital photos with the VIXIA HF S100. You can also enjoy faster processing of your images to your memory card (1.4x normal card; 2.5x Hi Speed card). In addition, it helps lower power consumption for longer battery life.

1920 x 1080 Full HD Recording

The Canon VIXIA HF S100 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. With the advanced codec in the VIXIA HF S100, you can also record at the highest AVCHD bitrate of 24Mbps.**
_{* A Class 4 or higher SDHC memory card is required. For other recording formats, a Class 2 or higher card is recommended. Also, movie recording requires cards with 128MB of memory or more. Cards made by Toshiba, SanDisk or Matsushita are recommended. No particular restrictions apply for still images.
** DVD media containing AVCHD footage should only be used in AVCHD compatible players otherwise the DVD player may fail to eject the media and may erase its contents without warning.}

24Mbps Recording

The 24Mbps recording capability of the VIXIA HF S100 gives you the highest quality AVCHD video possible. You'll see enhanced detail, finer gradations of tones and improved reproduction of moving subjects. Video shot by the VIXIA HF S100 of fast-moving sporting events, multi-color butterflies on a variegated leaf or the shading of a brilliant sunset will be remarkable.

Canon Exclusive: 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 HF S100, 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 HF S100's stabilization design corrects camcorder shake instantly. SuperRange OIS also delivers steady images when shooting at long focal lengths.

SuperRange OIS in action.

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 HF S100. Thanks to Canon's expertise, it's easy to eliminate one of the telltale signs of amateur video and photography.

Canon Exclusive: Instant AF (Auto Focus)

Another critical objective when shooting in High Definition is achieving a very sharp focus. The VIXIA HF S100 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.

And because a properly focused subject is more critical than ever with HD, the VIXIA HF S100 also features Focus Assist. This helps in capturing your subject in razor sharp focus. It works by providing a 2x magnification of your subject (when you start recording, this assistance is automatically cancelled). This is a feature normally found in professional broadcast-quality cameras. Another sophisticated control available on the VIXIA HF S100 is color peaking, which enhances the edges of your subject to aid in focusing.

Canon Exclusive: Genuine Canon Face Detection

The same high quality Face Detection technology used in Canon digital cameras is now available in Canon High Definition camcorders. Up to 35 faces can be detected automatically, and 9 detection frames can be displayed at one time. Genuine Canon Face Detection ensures razor-sharp focus and natural, accurate exposure of the chosen subjects.

The system is in fact so intelligent that it will recognize faces that are 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 time line to further identify footage containing that subject.

Advanced Auto Exposure System

The VIXIA HF S100 has an Advanced AE System inspired by Canon's EOS DSLR cameras. It's designed to provide the most accurate exposure settings in a wide variety of lighting conditions. This enhanced Auto Exposure system, together with Face Detection and DIGIC DV III captures an expanded dynamic range, optimizing brightness to avoid overexposure, while still preserving important shadow detail.

24p Cinema Mode

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 S100'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.

Normal mode vs. Cinema mode

30p Progressive Mode

This is a sophisticated tool for which you would otherwise have to look to professional video cameras in order to have at your command. In addition to the standard interlaced video frame rate of 60i, you may choose to set the VIXIA HF S100 to capture video in 30p (30 progressive frames, recorded to 60i), which is particularly useful for footage to be used on the Internet. In addition, this setting gives enhanced quality to still images captured after recording. It's also excellent for action shots and sports.

60i vs. 30p

Built-in 8.0 Megapixel Digital Camera

The VIXIA HF S100 is not only a superb camcorder, but also a brilliant 8.0 Megapixel Digital Camera delivering stunning quality still photos. With many advanced photo features rivaling other state-of-the-art digital cameras and recording to an SDHC memory card, you get the best in both video and photos. An example? The VIXIA HF S100 boasts Simultaneous Photo Shooting, allowing you to capture crisp 6.0 Megapixel photos and video at the same time.

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 HF S100's image sensor results in outstanding digital photographs. It gives an impressive resolution of 8.0 megapixels for sharp, crisp still images.

Canon DIGIC DV III Image Processor Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV III Image Processor features improved continuous shooting of digital photographs with the VIXIA HF S100. You can also enjoy faster processing of your images to your memory card (1.4x normal card; 2.5x Hi Speed card).

Focus Features 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 S100's 9 Point AiAF will automatically select from 9 metering frames on the screen to help bring images into sharp focus.

Auto Exposure Modes Like any good digital still camera, the VIXIA HF S100 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.

Program AE Mode Your life happens everywhere, so the VIXIA HF S100 gives you settings that automatically result in the best exposure settings for different conditions and different subjects.

Portrait mode ensures shallow depth of field for a pleasing background in your shots of friends and family. Sports mode stops the action with faster shutter speeds. Night mode is designed to give you great shots after the sun goes down. Snow and Beach modes compensate for bright surroundings and give you the proper exposure on your subject. Sunset mode results in vibrant, well-exposed colors for one of the toughest subjects to capture properly. Use Spotlight mode when your child is on stage and in the spotlight - literally - and you want to make sure the exposure is right for them. And, Fireworks mode records brilliant images of another tough subject - the holiday fireworks display.

Simultaneous Photo Recording With the VIXIA HF S100, you can record HD video and capture a 6-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 HF S100 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.

Level and Grid Markers With the Level Marker feature, it's easy to keep your camera level for more professional-looking photographs. 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 HF S100'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.

Still Capture from Flash Memory The versatile VIXIA HF S100 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 still image onto an SDHC card. Additionally, the VIXIA HF S100 allows you to capture 30 photos from one second of video. Now, better photos filled with action and expressions are easy to grab, print, post and share.

Built-in Flash Your VIXIA HF S100's built-in flash lets you capture superb photos indoors and in low light conditions. The VIXIA HF S100 also features red-eye reduction.

Share Your Photos Your VIXIA HF S100 comes with features that make it simple to share your still photos.

Print/Share Print/Share ButtonPrint/Share turns your VIXIA HF S100 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 HF S100 without going through a computer.

Print/Share also makes it easy to transfer your still images to your computer. Simply connect your VIXIA HF S100 and your computer, press the Print/Share button and your photos are downloaded to your computer.

DVD Burner Compatible You can also easily burn DVDs of your still photos taken with your VIXIA HF S100 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.
_{* Discs recorded in 24Mbps cannot be played back using the DW-100.}

Superb Shooting Control

Dual Shot Dual ShotCapture video and photos without switching modes, which both saves you time and helps you to avoid the chance of a missed shot.

Professional Shooting Assist Functions The VIXIA HF S100 provides you with an exceptional level of control. At your fingertips will be the same type of creative control tools the pros use to deliver the best results possible.

• Enhanced zebra pattern (70 percent, 100 percent) indicates blown out or high brightness areas to help you set the proper exposure.
• Color peaking displays the edges of your subject in color (red, blue, yellow) - to aid in manual focusing.
• Color bars with Test Tone.
• Gain control function is selectable from 0, 6, 12, and 18 dB and Auto. Lowering the dB value can ensure that dark scenes can be shot with the correct level of darkness. A higher gain setting can provide extra brightness for dark scenes.
• 00% area display gives you a complete view in the LCD of the scene being shot. No need to worry that areas in the margins are being left out.

The VIXIA HF S100 features a Custom Key and Custom Dial to provide quick and easy access to commonly used functions. Choose from:

• Exposure Lock (On/Off)
• Focus (Auto/Manual)
• Assist Functions
• Microphone Level Control (Auto/Manual)
• Automatic Gain Control Limits (On/Off)

Variable Zoom Speed Control Another sure sign of amateur video is the unsteady zoom shot. But with the VIXIA HF S100'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 Markers With 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 HF S100's Grid Marker feature lets you compose your shot accurately, according to the grid on your LCD screen. 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.

Quick Start Quick StartNever miss a quickly unfolding shot again. When the VIXIA HF S100 is in Camera Mode and the LCD panel is closed, it is placed in standby mode. When the action starts, open the LCD panel and you'll begin recording in less than one second. You'll also help extend your battery life as compared to leaving the camcorder in regular recording mode.

Pre-record The Pre-record feature places your VIXIA HF S100 in a stand-by "pre-roll" mode. When you press the shooting button while in Pre-record, the VIXIA HF S100 automatically records 3 seconds of the action which occurred prior to your pressing of the button. With Pre-record, it will be easier than ever to capture the moment when the bat hits the ball at the start of that home run.

Pre-record mode

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 HF S100'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 group of friends on a candle-lit terrace at night, the VIXIA HF S100 captures all the moments you want to record.

Manual Audio Level Control To make your videos sound as good as they look, the VIXIA HF S100 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.

Improved Menu User Interface For greater ease of use, the VIXIA HF S100 features a revised control button with cross movement action. It's an intuitive design enabling you to push up, down, left or right to choose the menu option you wish.

DVD Burner Compatible You can also easily burn DVDs of the video shot with your VIXIA HF S100 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.

Canon Exclusive: 2.7-inch Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD

The 2.7-inch Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD on the VIXIA HF S100 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 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.

Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe Terminal

Another pro-level feature of the VIXIA HF S100 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 available Canon optional accessories, such as the VL-5 accessory video light or DM-100 directional stereo microphone. Using the proper accessories can greatly enhance the production values of the video you shoot.

Video Snapshot Mode

The Video Snapshot Mode of the VIXIA HF S100 will let you shoot short movie clips in the same way you've shot snapshots with your still camera. Simply capture a series of 4-second video clips, blend in one of 10 supplied music tracks, or your favorite background music, and create an entertaining movie that will hold everyone's attention. It's the perfect way to document your vacation or a family milestone.

Intelligent Lithium-ion Battery

The Intelligent Lithium-ion battery which powers the VIXIA HF S100 is a major 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." It is especially useful thanks to the long recording time capability of the VIXIA HF S100 - you'll be able to take full advantage of it and not miss any of the action you want to capture.

HDMI Terminal

With the VIXIA HF S100, 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). The newest version of HDMI (version 1.3) adds support for x.v. Color, an expanded color space which closely matches the range of the human eye. This enables richer, more accurate color to be displayed on today's latest HDTVs. Additionally, the VIXIA HF S100 supports CEC (Consumer Electronics Control). This allows multiple HDMI devices connected to your HDTV to be controlled by one remote control for simple operation.

Microphone Terminal with Manual Audio Level Control

The VIXIA HF S100 allows you to enhance the quality of your audio by using the optional accessory Canon DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone (which attaches to the Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe) to capture better sound and headphones to monitor the audio as you hear it. You can also attach an external microphone through the 3.5mm microphone terminal. Manual control of audio levels also lets you set the exact balance you need for the situation. Your videos will sound as good as they look.

Includes Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software

The Canon VIXIA HF S100 High Definition Camcorder is bundled with a powerful software suite, Pixela ImageMixer 3SE. 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.

This software 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 either full size AVCHD DVDs which play in AVCHD compatible Blu-ray disc players for the full home theater experience or onto Standard Definition DVDs. And to complement the VIXIA HF S100's Video Snapshot feature, a music CD containing royalty-free soundtracks is also provided.
_{* The bundled application is compatible with Windows XP and Windows Vista.}

Additional Features

• 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 ultra-fast transfer of movies and photos.
• Compatible Optional Accessories available including the Wide Converter WD-H58, Tele Converter TL-H58, Video Flash Light VFL-2 and High Capacity Battery Pack BP-827.
• Wireless Remote Control lets you operate your VIXIA HF S100 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

• VIXIA HF S100 Camcorder
• Battery Pack BP-807
• Compact Power Adapter CA-570
• Wireless Controller WL-D88
• Component Cable CTC-100/S
• Stereo Video Cable STV-250N
• USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
• Digital Video Solution Disk
• Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software
• Music CD

Product Description

Canon's top-of-the-line, new VIXIA HF S100 Flash Memory camcorder gives you everything you expect from Canon. It has a powerful, new 8.59-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image sensor plus Canon's latest DIGIC DV III Image Processor. Add a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens and the highest bit rate in AVCHD, and you've got a camcorder that delivers spectacularly realistic HD video and photos. You can record to removable SDHC memory cards for quick and easy sharing, also enjoy fast, silent start-up and operation. The Canon VIXIA HF S100 camcorder lets you shoot like a pro with assist functions including new zebra patterns, color peaking, a Custom Key and Dial, and shooting modes, including 24p Cinema Mode for video that looks like a big-screen movie. The VIXIA HF S100 incorporates some of Canon's most exciting new functions, including Genuine Canon Face Detection for perfect focus and exposure, even with faces looking down or sideways, Pre-Record that captures video 3 seconds before you press the record button, and the new Video Snapshot Mode for saving your memories as a series of 4-second video clips set to music. Shoot extraordinary video and photos with the VIXIA HF S100. Canon USA 1-year limited warranty included.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

343 of 348 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best consumer camcorder I have ever seen. Reviewed by professional videographer., April 5, 2009

By 

AmazonLover (United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HFS100 HD Flash Memory Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom - 2009 MODEL (Electronics)

I have owned a small wedding videography company for 5 years and after using the HFS10 for a week I am incredibly pleased with it. Please note the HFS10 is identical to the HFS100 except the HFS10 also comes with 32GB of internal flash memory.

If you want the smallest camcorder you can get without sacrificing video quality in any way, than this is the camcorder for you. I am amazed at how small this thing is while still having a professional grade lens. This is the same Canon lens as on their GL2 which is probably the most popular entry level professional camcorder ever (which I have owned for a few years).

Pros:
1.) Professional camera lens with superb HD video quality (even in low light situations). I cannot express enough how amazing the pictures look.

2.) Accepts up to 32 GB of SDHC Flash memory
A.) Flash memory is instant. No waiting for tapes to wind or hard drives to spin. The camera goes from off to red light recording in less than 2 seconds.
B.) Flash memory helps keep the camera small.
C.) Flash memory protects data from being lost due to the camera being dropped or hit (a real problem with hard drive cameras).

3.) The still picture quality, even with the built in flash, is unbelievable for a camcorder. I feel like I am shooting with my Rebel XTi.

4.) I love the auto open and close lens cover. It only opens when you are actually shooting. If the camera is off or if you are reviewing it immediately closes.

5.) Menus are very easy to navigate.

Cons:
1.) Doesn't come with an HDMI cable. Since it doesn't take a normal sized HDMI cable I think there is no excuse for that.

2.) Doesn't come with a battery charger. You either have to spend $50 to get one or recharge batteries using the camcorder itself.

3.) No internal memory, however it's $200 more for the HFS10 for only 32GB of internal storage and that is way too much. It should have only cost an extra $100. Unless you need to be able to record more than 2.5 hours of shooting without changing SDHC cards, then get this camera because a 32GB class 6 SDHC card only costs $100.

4.) Only comes with the BP-809 battery which doesn't even last an hour. So you will need to buy the BP-827 which costs another $150. The BP-827 does stick out from the back just a slight bit, but not even an inch and is totally not noticeable nor does it add any real weight.

5.) 10X optical zoom is a little slim for my liking. I am used to 20X.

This camcorder is basically a professional lens barrel with an LCD on the side which gives you the best picture quality possible while keeping the size incredibly small. I cannot encourage you enough to get this camcorder.

96 of 97 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Images and Features, Remarkable Stills, May 5, 2009

By 

Tom D (Columbus, OH United States) - See all my reviews
(TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (VINE VOICE)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HFS100 HD Flash Memory Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom - 2009 MODEL (Electronics)

I'll try to cover what others haven't. Yes, the images are sharp and the colors are faithful. That goes for both video and stills. I'll try to post an image of a flower as an example of a still shot. Posting video's problematic. One of the key reasons I chose this camcorder is its still image capabilities. I followed other reviewer's recommendations and purchase the separate battery charger and BP-827 battery. And I purchase the optional video light, VFL-2 which is light and small.

If you're new to video, it's a commitment. Taking good videos requires concentration, and at least a little bit of practice. Though the camcorder is truly compact, the supporting equipment is an order of magnitude more bulky than with today's point and shoot digital camera. You can slip an excellent point and shoot in your pocket; video demands a case for the charger, cables, optional video light and power supply at a minimum. Then there's the mandatory downloading and editing.

This camcorder has so many features and choices that you'll need to refer to the manual and once you understand the way the menu system works, it's fairly intuitive. There are five resolution choices for video. Similar for stills. On the other hand, you can start creating videos and stills out of the box; they may not quite match your preferences though. The complexity of the options shouldn't stop anyone; you don't have to take advantage of all the features. To get what you want, you'll need to spend maybe an hour with the camera and manual. The you can pretty much ignore the details if you wish.

The screen image is readable, even in bright sunlight. And even better with a little tilt to put it in shadow. The controls are OK though the zoom is just a tad awkward for my stubby fingers. Record/Stop is convenient and the camera sits well in your hand. No big deal. Tougher I suppose if you're left handed.

I have a couple of 16G, class 6 SDHC cards because they're at the right price point. They're good for 1 hour 18 minutes at the highest resolution and that pretty well matches the included battery capability. That's a LOT of video, though an hour of video may end up as only a few minutes of edited material worth keeping.

So far I haven't figured out how to get the video directly off the flash card so it can be edited with the software. I have to download it from the camera using the included software. It may be a problem with the Corel editing software I'm trying to use. The included software seems to have limited editing capabilities, but that may reflect my inexperience as a user. The manual for the software is lengthy, but so far, not particularly useful. (added 17 May 09, With more time the Corel Video Studio 12 is perfect, cheap, and has all the features I need and I've been able to pull the video directly off the SDHC card without using the camera, very convenient).

The zoom's what you'd expect. The optical zoom is magnificent. The digital has two setting, one to 40X and one to 200X. The 40X setting's good, the 200X looses a lot and I really can't imagine a useful application, perhaps very great distances with infinite focus. Only the optical zoom works with stills.

What I like best: great images, the 3 second "pre-record" feature, beautiful stills, OK sound with the built-in microphone, pop-up flash and video light, and yeah, again crisp images.

What I don't like: not crazy about the software, no separate charger, no case or good case recommendation (see below). Trivial compared to what I like.

Finding a suitable case wasn't obvious. Tough search. I'm happy with a USA Gear Pro Series "Gear S-6" for $14.95 from Amazon through Accessory Genie. See my reviews of that case and the Case Logic TBC-5 Medium Case I didn't like for this application.

83 of 85 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Highly Recommended, but understand the "total package cost!, November 29, 2009

By 

Stockstradr "Stockstradr" (Bay Area) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HFS100 HD Flash Memory Camcorder w/10x Optical Zoom - 2009 MODEL (Electronics)

MY BACKGROUND: techno-geek engineer, camera and camcorder enthusiast, not a pro videographer or pro photographer. I purchased this product from Amazon (great price!) and have explored its capabilities VERY thoroughly for nine months. I use this camcorder to capture magic moments in the life of our 15 month-old daughter.

REVIEW IN A PARAGRAPH:
Highly recommended for being one of the best full HD (60i/30p @ 1920x1080) "prosumer" camcorders - at this price level. Yes, the convenient SD flash memory is so much better than messy digital tape. The Auto Focus often works even after you attach the recommended accessory lenses or filters. We love this video camera! However you only see the exceptionally vibrant and very-close-to-broadcast-quality video IF you shoot under very bright indoor light lighting conditions (or outdoor on sunny day, or a cloudy day that still manages to be bright) ; otherwise, in less intense indoor lighting the video looks good but nothing that your eyes will perceive as close-to-broadcast-HD quality. (NOTE: this drawback of lower performance in less light is typical to ALL camcorders at this price point, and this one is the least affected by it.) Qualifier: no "video professional" with trained eyes would ever mistake the best video from this camcorder for being close to true broadcast-quality HD, but I do claim that the typical non-professional WILL perceive it as being stunningly close.

An example will help explain what is meant by "very bright indoor lighting": if we shoot video at our kitchen table (under direct overhead lighting of five unshaded 75-watt incandescent bulbs) even that much light is NOT enough light to get the best video this camcorder can produce. However, if I put two separate inexpensive flood lights (each using two standard 150-watt incandescent bulbs, so in total 600 Watts!) directly on the subject from about five feet away, then the resulting HD video is so close to broadcast-quality on brightness, crispness, and color intensity that friends and family are stunned when seeing it on a big-screen LCD. For great indoor video, you'll need something like two easily movable floor lamps / floods that you can position to put at least 600 watts of incandescent light (or equiv.) onto your subject. If your home decor doesn't suffer to much for it, you can check out the inexpensive 72" Tochiere brushed metal Floor Lamps available from low-cost department store starting with "T" named after something you aim at. Get about three or four of those to move quickly around the house; you'll have plenty of light for shooting video.

YOU MAY NOT KNOW THIS ABOUT THE S10/S100:
1) Shoots astoundingly great photos and can even do continuous-mode 8-megapixel snapshots at 5 frames/second. You will not miss your baby's momentary smile when you can shoot continuous stills at 5 f/sec, but if you do that for several minutes you will have A LOT of still images to parse!
2) The AF sensor is located INSIDE the lens ring, meaning the AF usually keeps working even with a variety (but not all) lens attachments.
3) It has the weird proprietary Canon Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe, so your previously existing Universal Hot Shoe accessories (such as camera external flash) will not fit this camcorder. You can buy a small adapter, but that can only convert to a universal COLD shoe.
4) It may have a 8.6Mp CMOS sensor, but it only utilizes 6Mp of that sensor when shooting movies. However, the video still looks great.
5) This camcorder records to its memory in 60i; when you set its recording mode to say "24PF" or "30PF" it merely changes its post shooting CONVERSION method. If your goal is something like 24p, you will get better results to simply shoot in its native format, and do your own conversion in post using a higher-end 3rd party utility such as Cineform Neo Scene. NOTE: many report better video end result by using Cineform Neo Scene (or similar) to convert ALL of the S10/S100 AVCHD files for editing as visually lossless (but much larger) CineForm AVI or MOV files.
6) Get a Blu-ray burner (~$200) for your PC, and you can directly burn this camcorder's video onto Blu-ray disks, yielding permanent media containing stunning video when seen on a big screen HD LCD.

KNOW THIS BEFORE YOU BUY:
This is NOT a sub $1000 investment; it is more like $1600+ (because you'll need to buy multiple must-have accessories). Plus, you'll likely discover your PC isn't fast enough to edit the very CPU-intensive AVCHD video, so you'll need to buy a very fast PC (which will cost you another $1500, or more). My total outlay is now over four grand, when I also include the cost of the faster PC we had to buy.

This will better explain how the "total package" must include the critically-needed accessories: imagine you shoot video of your child's soccer game in the park, only to discover your video is garbage because of wind noise. You see, to get acceptable sound when shooting under even slight wind conditions, ANY camcorder must use an external video mic equipped with a "dead cat" wind screen. Next, imagine you are sitting w/friends at dinner and you point the camera to capture mom holding baby on the opposite side of the table, but can't get them into the frame - because you need to buy a wide-angle lens. And there are a half-dozen other critically-needed video accessories you'll find you must buy to cover different shooting conditions; otherwise, you are gonna get embarrassingly mediocre video. This holds true for any camcorder, not just this one.

CONCLUSION: if this camcorder AND the minimally-required accessories (and new PC!) is outside your budget, then you're better offer buying a less-expensive camcorder so you can then also buy its critically needed accessories - because that lower cost (but more complete system) will yield better final video product, even if the video happens to be slightly lower resolution and not as crisp as you get from this Canon camcorder.

OK, let's say you're not worried about your budget. You've got money to burn. That's why I posted this review, to offer tips on the best "minimal set of accessories" for this Canon camcorder. I spent many hours reading online reviews specific to the S100, then I bought a variety of recommended accessories and tested them, figured out which are critically-needed for good video, parsing them down to this list of MUST-HAVE accessories to get great video from the S100:

-> PC w/Intel Core i7-920 2.66GHz (or similar), at least 4GB (or more) SDRAM, ATI Radeon HD 4850 (or better) video card, Blu-ray Disc Burner, plus a good 1080x1920 LCD monitor OR matching dual-LCD-monitors (1080x1920) highly recommended for video editing. OR: (expensive choice) Mac Pro Quad-Core (or 8 Core), with 3GB SDRAM (or more). Plus in either case you need at least a 1TB (2TB is better) in a RAID0 (or RAID10) array for needed read/write speeds; alternatively, you could go without the RAID and instead temporarily edit your video off a super-fast SSD (Intel X25-M, or similar), but you'll still need a large conventional hard drive (min 2TB) for archiving your video.
-> Video editing software. Limit your choices to software built to handle AVCHD format, such as: Sony Vegas Movie Studio Platinum 9 (PC Windows, lowest cost but powerful), OR: Adobe Premiere Pro CS4 (expensive but considered very good, well-reviewed). NOTES: the Canon Pixela video editing software included w/this camcorder is horrible. WARNING: before you buy ANY version 9 of Sony Vegas Movie Studio, be sure you read the reviews explaining the "crashes during render" which the only known fix can be a bit too "complex" for non-geek types and involves downloading CFF explorer from ntcore, installing it, then running CFFExplorer as Administrator and MANUALLY re-setting the 2GB limit flag in about FIVE different Sony Vegas run files so they can handle > than 2gig address space. This complex solution is found in the site sonycreativesoftware, go to Support > Forums.
-> Canon DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone (I strongly recommend this Canon mic, as it does both mono shotgun mode, and also 90-degree and 120-degree stereo modes, and the S100 interacts w/this mic through the Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe), However, some pro's seem to prefer the Rode mics, such as Rode Stereo VideoMic + Dead Kitten wind screen, OR the Rode (shotgun) VideoMic. NOTES: for Rode camcorder mics to mount on S10/S100, you should google something like "Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe to Universal Shoe Adapter" to find the adapter you'll need.
-> Canon BP-819 Lithium Ion Battery Pack for HF10, HF100 HF S & HF M Camcorders (expensive!). It doubles the std battery capacity (1780mAh vs. 890 mAh), giving you about two hours or typical recording time, compared w/one hr for the standard battery. The Canon BP-827 Lithium Ion Battery Pack for Vixia HG, HF S & HF M Camcorders(very expensive!) triples the capacity to 2670mAh, OR consider a great MONEY SAVER: for only $40 to $60 for 2700mAh non-OEM (non-Canon) battery, including the non-OEM battery charger (Note: the S100 will NOT charge these non-intelligent batteries or show battery time remaining, so that extra non-OEM charger is req'd, and consider the non-OEM battery available with LED power level indicator). Try a Google search string such as "BP-827 Canon Compatible Battery LED+Charger Kit"
-> Canon 2590B002 CG-800 Lithium Ion Battery Charger for 800 Series Batteries. OR: find the $20 non-OEM charger, see search string above.
-> SanDisk 32GB Ultra 15MB/s SDHC SD Card (SDSDH-032G-P36, Retail Packaging). Since the price is now so close, you might as well get the 15MB/sec instead of the Class 4 version. Canon explicitly states the Canon S10 / S100 is compatible with the SanDisk DHC SD Cards of at least Class 4.
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