Harish Raju Musings

Canon announced the release of four high definition flash memory camcorders today. Two models, the HF S100 and HF S10, are loaded with features clearly aimed to entice budget-minded professionals and amateur filmmakers. The lower-tier models, the HF200 and HF20, offer fewer features but still show improvements over previous models.

All four camcorders record video in the AVCHD format in full 1920 x 1080 at 24Mbps, the fastest possible bitrate for the codec. All four include the latest generation DIGIC DVIII processor, which adds two new features: face detection for up to a purported 35 faces and an improved auto exposure system. Canon reports that the new processor also allows for better dynamic range.

Canon Pushes Pro Features for Flagship HD Camcorders in ‘09 - HF S100, HF S10, HF20, and HF200 - Canon

Four and a half years have passed since the first affordable digital SLR from Canon; the EOS 300D (Digital Rebel). In that time we have witnessed two further iterations (the EOS 350D and EOS 400D) leading up to today’s fourth generation EOS 450D, with twice the megapixel count of the original (twelve versus six) in a smaller body with a far wider range of functionality and features and a $200 lower list price.

Since those heady days in 2004 when the EOS 300D was the only kid on the block we’ve seen Nikon, Pentax and Olympus all attempt to hit the same sweet spot of size, features and price at the ‘lower end’ of the DSLR market, with varying degrees of success. Without a doubt the EOS 450D will have to do more today to prove itself in an increasingly crowded market.

Canon EOS 450D / Digital Rebel XSi Review: 1. Introduction: Digital Photography Review