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Posts tagged eye-fi
Canon adds 64GB LEGRIA HF M32 to its AVCHD camera range
Jul 14th
Canon has added a key new model to its range of LEGRIA AVCHD models -the new LEGRIA HF M32 – which it describes as a compact, easy-to-use Full HD camcorder with 64GB extended flash storage.
This new model brings the LEGRIA “HF M” series line-up to four models and provides 64GB internal flash memory and SDXC memory card support for video enthusiasts who require longer recording times.
Canon LEGRIA HF-M32 3D Flip View
The LEGRIA HF M32 incorporates the same Canon technologies as the other models within the LEGRIA HF M series, including a Touch-screen LCD screen for greater user control and support for SDXC memory cards (the first Canon model to do so), providing increased shooting time with up to two terabytes (TB) capacity.
Advanced features and performance
Canon has given the LEGRIA HF M32 a 3.3 Megapixel Full HD CMOS sensor, 18x Advanced Zoom, Canon HD Video Lens and DIGIC DV III processing technology. In addition, Advanced Face Detection Technology identifies up to 35 faces in a frame, ensuring that friends and family remain in focus and well-exposed at all times. An individual face can even be manually selected to track someone moving around. Canon’s Instant AF technology provides what the company describes as “high-speed, pin-point auto-focus required for HD”.
In addition to its Super Range Optical Image Stabiliser, the HF M32 offers two additional stabilisation modes for tricky shooting situations: its Dynamic Optical Image Stabiliser minimises camera shake when walking or moving, especially for wide angle shots, whilst – at maximum zoom – its new Powered Optical Image Stabiliser mode can be activated at the touch of a button, and is designed to improve image stability when focusing on distant subjects.
The LEGRIA HF M32 features a 2.7” gesture-based Touch-screen LCD, providing instant control and ease of use. Touch Focus, Touch Exposure and Touch Tracking each offer the ability to change focus, select exposure levels and track moving subjects simply by touching the screen. Sliding on-screen controls allow users to make fine adjustments to zoom, aperture and exposure.
Video Snapshot for instant video playlists
Canon’s unique Video Snapshot offers one-touch recording to capture clips of two, four or eight seconds in duration. Clips can even be copied from previously-recorded footage, allowing users to create shorter scenes from long videos. They can then be assembled into a video ‘playlist’, which can be played back as a movie montage with background music. Music can either be added by uploading audio tracks to the camcorder memory or playing through the camcorder using an MP3 player. If they wish, users can then export the full playlist – including music – as a single Standard Definition movie to upload to the internet or burn to disc.
Canon LEGRIA HF-M32 LCD Screen
The LEGRIA HF M32 offers an easy way for users to share content online. An in-camcorder HD-to-SD conversion tool combines with an Easy Web Upload feature to allow clips to be transferred to YouTube with the minimum of effort. Supplied PIXELA ImageMixer software automatically locates content and allows users to log-in, upload and annotate their footage in one step. Individual user account details can also be stored for regular use.
Eye-Fi support for computerless uploading and sharing
Support for Eye-Fi connected functions means users can also upload their converted SD video clips direct from the camcorder to YouTube (or other supported websites) at a wireless hotspot, without the need for a computer.
Dual flash memory
In addition to 64GB of built-in flash memory, a memory card slot is also provided – compatible with SDHC and next-generation SDXC cards. Ranging to a maximum capacity of 2TB, SDXC offers storage for hours of additional full HD video content. Relay Recording also complements Dual Flash Memory by automatically switching recording to the memory card when internal memory is full, so there’s no need to miss recording the end of an exciting event.
LEGRIA accessories
The new LEGRIA HF M32 is compatible with a range of Canon LEGRIA accessories, including lens adaptors, video lights and the Canon WP-V2 underwater case, which enables users to shoot under water at depths of up to 40 metres. The integrated Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe also supports the Canon SM-V1 5.1ch surround sound microphone.
LEGRIA HF M32 Key features
Here’s a summary of the Canon LEGRIA HF M32′s main features:
- 64GB Dual Flash Memory, SDXC support and Relay Recording
- Easy HD Shooting
- 6.8cm (2.7”) Touch-screen LCD
- Video Snapshot
- 3.3MP Canon HD Camera System
- Dynamic OIS and Powered IS
- Easy sharing
- Pre REC, 25p Cinema Mode
- Superior audio
- Creative options
Availability
The Canon LEGRIA HF M32 is available from September 2010.
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Source: Canon UK Press Release. Additional material by Colin Barrett. Image supplied by Canon UK. ©2010.
Sanyo debuts “smallest, thinnest” HD camera
Mar 2nd
It caused a bit of a stir when first revealed at CES last month and now Sanyo has confirmed its launch plans for what it describes as the smallest, thinnest and lightest full HD camera ever – its Xacti VPC-CS1 Dual Camera.
The tiny Dual Camera shoots both full 1080i HD footage and 8 megapixel still shots, despite having a body thickness of a mere one inch (2.7cm). Available in two colours, metallic silver and magenta, both models will be available throughout the UK from Friday, March 5, with a street price in the region of £249.
Available in 2 colours - the world's smallest, thinnest full-HD camera
Dominic Jones, Marketing Manager for Sanyo UK is confident that the new models will meet the needs of a growing sector of the camcorder market: “The Xacti VPC-CS1 combines Sanyo’s unique technological capabilities with a level of style, simplicity and elegance never before seen in the pocket camera marketplace. We believe this is a watershed product that will prove popular across a broad range of audiences, from teens to grandparents.”
Capture everything wherever you are
The company has given the CS1 a redesigned pistol grip chassis that not only makes it the smallest and most slender full HD camera available but, combined with its 285-degree tilting screen designed to capture any angle, makes it fun and simple to use. We’re reminded that the concept of pocket camcorders is that you should be able to carry your camera with you everywhere, ready to capture the moment wherever you are.
The camera has a 10x Advanced Zoom lens, which Sanyo describes as being “perfect” for snapping the action from a distance and automatic adjustments are made to ensure the best possible image quality whether shooting on a beach or a nightclub. The adjustable, fold out 2.7inch TFT LCD screen is designed to display the action clearly at all times from any angle and in a variety of light conditions. The camera features a mini HDMI port which enables direct connection to a HDTV for full HD playback.
Perfect for Facebook, YouTube and MySpace
Sharing footage taken with the Xacti CS1 is as easy as shooting it and the camera is compatible with Eye-Fi SD cards to allow wireless transfer to the web. Footage is shot in the YouTube-compatible MPEG4 format and can be uploaded easily to any of the major social networks or blogging platforms.
The Sanyo Xacti is available in the UK from 5th March 2010.
Words by Colin Barrett, SimplyDV, from information kindly supplied by Sanyo UK. Picture supplied by Sanyo UK and used by permission.
Canon 1080p EOS 550D unveiled
Feb 9th
With its 18 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and 1080P full high definition video capability, the new Canon EOS 550D DSLR is already grabbing the attention of HD video-makers as well as stills snappers.
Canon EOS 550D with Flash and fitted with EF-S 18-55mm Lens
There’s no doubt that the new generation of DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras are making further inroads into the HD video camcorder market.
By providing users with the options of shooting full specification 1080P progressive scan high definition HD video as well as professional-standard stills, users now only need one device when shooting.
The new 550D, we’re informed, incorporates technologies and features more commonly found in semi-pro DSLRs into the kind of compact, lightweight body favoured by consumers.
Advanced image processing and fast optical performance
Canon’s advanced DIGIC 4 image processor and 18MP sensor support standard ISO settings of 100 – 6400 (expandable to 12800), while enhanced in-camera noise reduction technology boosts performance in low light conditions. The system’s 14-bit image processing also designed to produce smoother tonal gradation and natural looking colours that will result in high quality prints and on-screen display.
Up front in the optical department, the EOS 550D features a 9-point AF system with one extra-sensitive cross–type point at the centre for f/2.8 or faster lenses. The EOS 550D also supports high-speed, continuous shooting at 3.7 frames per second (fps) and will undoubtedly provide users with the opportunity to exert greater control over their images, allowing them to capture split-second moments with ease and accuracy.
Canon EOS-550D's 7.7cm (3.0”) 3:2 Clear View LCD screen
Meanwhile, Canon continues to filter its new technology and features down from its advanced and professional DSLR ranges.
The EOS 550D includes the iFCL metering system first launched in the EOS 7D. New for EOS is the ability to set the top limit for automatic ISO, allowing users to control the maximum amount of noise in their images.
In a first for entry level EOS, exposure compensation and bracketing can be set up to plus or minus five and two stops respectively, allowing the photographer to take a number of differently exposed versions of the same shot to ensure they capture a well-exposed image, even in difficult lighting conditions.
EOS Movies: Full HD video with creative control
As the ability to record Full HD video becomes increasingly important, Canon continues to deliver DSLR technology which the company claims “sets the industry benchmark for multimedia functionality”. The EOS 550D records video in full 1920x1080p HD resolution, allowing photographers to select the frame rate preferred from 30, 25 and 24fps, as well as offering 720p video at 60 and 50fps. The EOS 550D also includes a 3.5mm stereo microphone socket, enabling the use of an external microphone when capturing video.
Photographers can also take manual control over exposure settings, changing the depth of field and degree of motion blur to shoot more creatively. To provide the best possible video quality, highlight tone priority (HTP) can be set independently for movie capture, without changing any still image capture settings. In situations where the subject is further away, the EOS 550D Movie Crop function records with the central 640×480 pixel area of the sensor, creating an effective magnification of approximately seven times. The EOS 550D is the first in the EOS range to feature Movie Crop and gives consumers more flexibility to capture important moments which would otherwise be too far away.
Bigger buttons, more intuitive design
As consumers would expect from an EOS DSLR, the EOS 550D is built to a high quality specification. It features bigger, more intuitive buttons which have been redesigned following feedback from users. Based on this feedback, the EOS 550D also features an additional button on the new, battery grip, allowing aperture settings to be changed when shooting with the camera in a vertical position, without having to reorient the body.
View from the rear: Canon EOS-550D DSLR
Connectivity
For EOS 550D photographers, shooting high resolution pictures and video is of course just the first step.
Thanks to an integrated HDMI port compatible with High-Definition Multimedia Interface – Consumer Electronics Control (HDMI-CEC), video and images stored on the EOS 550D can be viewed on an HD-ready TV and controlled via the TV remote.
For users who want to transfer content wirelessly, the EOS 550D includes Eye-Fi connected functions. The EOS 550D features a dedicated Eye-Fi section in the User Interface and it disables the automatic power-down function when an Eye-Fi card is transmitting – allowing users to transfer content easily and without interruption.
Amazon is now taking orders for this camera
Accessories
The EOS 550D is fully compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses and EX series Speedlite flash units, including the compact Speedlite 270EX. The EOS 550D is also compatible with the new RC-6 Remote Control, allowing photographers to capture high quality stills and Full HD video without touching the camera body. The slim line infrared controller can trigger the shutter release from up to five metres away, with users able to select either immediate release or a two second delay for greater flexibility when shooting. As well as supporting EOS 550D, the RC-6 is also compatible with the EOS 450D, 500D, 7D and 5D Mark II.
CANON iMAGE GATEWAY for free online storage of media
Owners of the new Canon EOS 550D can join the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, a free online facility for Canon users that makes it easy to share their photos and video. Users can take advantage of up to 2GB of personal storage space, creating enough room for hundreds of high-quality images. Mobile browsing is also supported, making it easy for friends and family to view photos on the move.
Canon EOS-550D showing upper-rear controls
Main features summary of the Canon EOS 550D DSLR
Here’s our at-a-glance summary of the main features of the new camera as supplied to us by Canon UK:
- 18 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- DIGIC 4 processor with ISO 100-6400 (Expansion to 12800)
- Continuous shooting at 3.7fps
- Full HD movie recording with manual control and selectable frame rates
- 7.7cm (3.0”) 3:2 Clear View LCD with 1,040k dots
- iFCL metering System with 63-zone Dual-layer Metering Sensor
- Quick Control screen to change shooting settings
- Exposure compensation +/-5 stops.
- Select maximum value for Auto ISO
- External Microphone socket
- Movie crop function
- Eye-Fi connected functions compatibility
UK / Europe Pricing and Availability
- The EOS 550D body only is available from 24th February 2010 priced at £799.99.00 / €899.00 RRP inc. VAT.
- The EOS 550D, EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens kit is available from 24th February 2010 priced at £899.99.00 / €999.00 RRP inc. VAT.
- The EOS 550D, EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens kit is available from 24th February 2010 priced at £1,099.99.00 / €1,249.00 RRP inc. VAT.
- The EOS 550D, EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS & EF-S 55-250 f/4-5.6 IS double lens kit is available from 24th February 2010 priced at £1,199.99.00 / €1,349.00 RRP inc. VAT.
- The BG-E8 battery grip for the EOS 550D is available from 24th February 2010 priced at £159.99.00 / €179.00 RRP inc. VAT.
- The LP-E8 battery pack for the the EOS 550D is available from 24th February 2010 priced at £49.99.00 / €49.99 RRP inc. VAT.
- The RC-06 remote price is TBA.
Original Source: Canon UK Press Release 8th February 2010. Additional content by Colin Barrett.
Sanyo’s new Xacti Full-HD dual-cam threesome
Feb 6th
Sanyo’s newly-announced Xacti CG20, CG100 and GH1 models combine full 1920 x 1080i high definition video with image stabilisation, face detection and up to 14 megapixel resolution digital photos.
Sanyo Xacti GH1 CG100 CG20 threesome
Whilst the Xacti CG20 has been given only a 5x optical zoom, the Xacti GH1 and the Xacti CG100 feature the 12x Double Range Zoom designed to extend the optical zoom of the camera without - Sanyo assures us – any loss of quality and offers two zoom ranges of different magnitude. The user can switch between a wide angle and a tele-oriented field of view at the touch of a button.
The compact design of the Dual Cameras and their 2.7-inch LCD display, which can be rotated 285 degrees, enables the user to grab video clips quickly and spontaneously. To this end, the Xacti GH1 features a double record button that is mounted above the lens, making it easier to take photos and videos when holding the camera at unusual angles, while the ergonomic, pistol grip shape of the Xacti CG100 and Xacti CG20 is geared towards making them easy to operate with one hand, even whilst on the move.
Intuitive menu system and ease of use
We’re told that the intuitive menu guidance system incorporated into this new range makes them all very easy to operate. With the Dual Shot feature it’s possible to take photos and record videos simultaneously. Less experienced photo and video fans should also benefit from additional features such as the EIS (Electronic Image Stabilisation) and/or face chaser function, which automatically detects up to twelve faces when recording video or taking photos. What’s more, we’re told that the high-speed serial image feature takes seven (CG100 and GH1) or 10 (CG20) pictures per second for even the most rapid movement sequences. The super-macro mode allows photos to be taken from as close as one centimetre away from the object.
The “true HD experience”
All three Dual Cameras can record their movie and stills onto SD, SDHC or SDXC memory cards. Furthermore, these models also support Eye-Fi-SD cards for wireless data transfer to a computer. Footage is recorded in the memory-efficient MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format, meaning one 32 GB memory card has enough room up to four hours recordings of full HD videos (1080i). The Dual Cameras have an HDMI port with which to connect to high definition TV displays for full HD playback.
UK Variants, Pricing and Availability
The manufacturer’s recommended retail price in the UK is £229 for the Xacti GH1, £229 for the Xacti CG100 and £179 for the Xacti CG20. The three new Dual Cameras will be available through main retail outlets in the following colours in March 2010:
- Xacti GH1: Pink (VPC-GH1EXP), Blue (GH1EXEBL), Silver (VPC-GH1EX)
- Xacti CG100: Black (VPC-CG100EXBK), Wine Red (VPC-CG100EXWR), White (VPC-CG100EXW)
- Xacti CG20: Pink (VPC-CG20EXP), Silver (VPC-CG20EX), Black (VPC-CG20EXBK)
Specifications
Xacti VPC- GH1
Full HD video, 1080i (1,920 x 1,080 pixels)
14 megapixel photos
CMOS sensor (14.4 megapixels)
38 mm wide-angle lens
5x optical zoom, 12x double-range zoom
Compatible with SDXC cards
Wireless data transfer via Eye-Fi-SD cards
2.7-inch TFT LCD display (can be turned 285 degrees)
Face chaser function and target a colour function
Mini-HDMI port
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Size: 38.5 x 109.6 x 55.0 mm (WxDxH)
Weight: approx. 155 grams
Xacti VPC- CG20
Full HD videos, 1080i (1,920 x 1,080 pixels)
10 megapixel photos
CMOS sensor (10.7 megapixels)
38 mm wide-angle lens
5x optical zoom
Compatible with SDXC cards
Wireless data transfer via Eye-Fi-SD cards
2.7-inch TFT LCD display (can be turned 285 degrees)
Face chaser function and target a colour function
Mini-HDMI port
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Size: 85.7 x 37.4 x 110.3 mm (WxDxH)
Weight: approx. 157 grams
Xacti VPC- CG100
Full HD videos, 1080i (1,920 x 1,080 pixels)
14 megapixel photos
CMOS sensor (14.4 megapixels)
38 mm wide-angle lens
5x optical zoom, 12x double-range zoom
Compatible with SDXC cards
Wireless data transfer via Eye-Fi-SD cards
2.7-inch TFT LCD display (can be turned 285 degrees)
Face chaser function and target a colour function
Mini-HDMI port
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Size: 85.7 x 37.4 x 110.3 mm (WxDxH)
Weight: approx. 158 grams
Source: Sanyo UK. Words by Colin Barrett based upon information and specifications supplied by Sanyo UK.
Canon announces new camcorder line-up for Spring/Summer 2010
Jan 5th
Canon is the first of the major brands to announce its latest range of camcorder products for 2010. Timed to coincide with its presence at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, where it will showcase all new offerings, we’re now able to bring you news of 12 new additions to its LEGRIA sub-brand line-up.
What’s interesting – and highly significant – is that of the twelve models announced today, only three of them are standard definition models. Put it another way, 75% of the new Canon camcorders are high definition models. Moreover, there’s not a single tape-based, DVD or even HDD (hard disc drive) model anywhere to be seen in this year’s line-up; each and every model is designed for solid-state recording and playback using flash memory.
So, without further ado, let’s give you the low-down on the new line-up.
LEGRIA HF S series: HF S21, HF S20 and HF S200
2010 Flagship Model: Canon LEGRIA HF S21 AVCHD Camcorder
At the top of the AVCHD range, we have the full-HD specification LEGRIA HF S series. Three models have been given 8MP (megapixel) FullHD CMOS image sensors, 10x optical zoom Canon Video Lenses, 3.5″ touch screen control using a 2.7″ LCD, advanced manual controls using Control Dial and Custom Key, DIGICDV III processing, Dynamic OIS (Optical Image Stabilisation) with Powered OIS mode and Instant AF (for auto focus functions). All three models in this flagship range allow for recording at up to 24Mbps and also feature double SDHC memory card slots in addition to their built-in Flash Memory
- The LEGRIA HF S21 offers Dual Flash Memory (64GB internal and double SDHC card slots) plus a 0.27: EVF (electronic viewfinder)
- The LEGRIA HF S20 offers Dual Flash Memory (32GB internal and double SDHC card slots) but no EVF
- The LEGRIA HF S200 offers double SDHC card slot only.
LEGRIA HF R series: HF R18, HF R16, HF R106
Canon HF R18 AVCHD Camcorder
The three AVCHD models in the HF R range are designed to offer HD video that’s easy to shoot and share, according to Canon.
Featuring single Canon HD CMOS sensors (size or resolution unspecified), a 20x optical zoom, 2.7″ LCD and other popular features like Smart Auto, Instant AF, Face Detection, Pre REC, Easy Web Upload (to YouTube, too) using supplied software, a single SDHC card slot and Eye-Fi (wireless file transfer) compatibility, the models appear suited to the family or leisure video camcorder look for good quality and affordability whilst still getting full high definition quality.
- The LEGRIA HF R18 offers Dual Flash Memory (32GB internal plus SDHC card slot) as well as onboard HD-to-SD movie conversion
- The LEGRIA HF R16 offers Dual Flash Memory (8GB internal plus SDHC card slot) as well as onboard HD-to-SD movie conversion
- The LEGRIA HF R106 offers a SDHC memory card slot only.
LEGRIA HF M series: HF M31, HF 36, HF M306
Aimed at users wishing to step up into the world of high definition video for the first-time, yet who wish to do so on a budget, the three HF M series AVCHD models come with a surprisingly comprehensive array of features and functions.
Canon LEGRIA HF M31 AVCHD Camcorder
Surprisingly, these extend to 24Mbps Full HD recording, Dynamic OIS, Face Detection, Pre REC, Relay Recording (the camera will seamlessly switch to an alternative recording medium once the one it’s using fills up during recording), 25p Cinema Mode, a Mini Accessory Shoe and an SDHC card slot. To cap it all, the top model in the series sports an external microphone input and a headphone output socket.
Even more interesting is that these models are also compatible with Eye-Fi wireless file transfer – Canon has scored a first in this respect!
- The LEGRIA HF M31 offers Dual Flash Memory (32GB internal plus SDHC card slot) as well as onboard HD-to-SD movie conversion, a microphone input and headphone output
- The Legria HF M36 offers Dual Flash Memory (8GB internal plus SDHC card slot) as well as onboard HD-to-SD movie conversion
- The LEGRIA HF M306 offers a SDHC memory card slot only.
LEGRIA FS300 series: FS37, FS36, FS306
Available in Red, Blue and Silver - the Canon LEGRIA FS306 Camcorder
The three models in this range (the only non-HD models to exist in the new line-up) are described by Canon as being “a collection of fun, lightweight, easy-to-use Standard Definition (SD) camcorders which feature Canon’s renowned imaging technology and expertise” and ”designed to help even the most inexperienced camcorder user capture and share precious moments”.
In other words, they’re compact, easy-to-use standard definition models for entry-level users who aren’t yet concerned with high definition.
To that end, they come complete with 41x Advanced Digital Zoom, a Dynamic Image Stabiliser (that means electronic) Intelligent Li-Ion battery with Quick Charge resulting in 20 mins charge for 60 mins usage, Pre REC, Quick Start from full “off” mode, SDHC memory card recording and a USB output with which to transfer clips and images.
- The LEGRIA FS37 offers Dual Flash Memory (16GB plus SDHC card slot)
- The LEGRIA FS36 ffers Dual Flash Memory (8GB plus SDHC card slot)
- The LEGRIA FS306 offers a SDHC memory card slot only.
Availability
All models will available from March 2010, with the exception of those in the LEGRIA HF S range which will be available from early April 2010.
Reviews
Hopefully we’ll have one or more review samples in the next few weeks, subject to availability at Canon UK.
More information: http://www.canon.co.uk
Words by Colin. Images copyright Canon Europe. Used by permission.
Eye-Fi offers Wi-Fi clip transfers
Nov 9th
The Eye-Fi Share Video SDHC Card
The Eye-Fi Home Video card is intended to save users time by wirelessly uploading JPEG photos and videos from their camera to their Windows PC or Apple Mac. Using your broadband wireless modem/router as the Wi-Fi communication hub, Eye-Fi is designed to make the transfer and organisation of digital video clips and pictures easy since it will upload to any folder on your computer and allow you to arrange your movies and photos according to date and time. Apple Mac users can even upload directly into iPhoto.
With its 4GB of flash memory, the Eye-Fi Home Video stores up to 2,000 photos or 90 minutes of video (depending on the recording format used) and facilitates automatic backup to the computer thanks to its wireless capabilities.
