Canon Legria HF S100

As an HD camera, I have to say that the Canon Legria HFS100 performs extremely well. My favourite thing about this camera is the ability to control actions manually, such as the exposure, shutter speed and focus. This allows for much more dynamic filmmaking. Still images come out with crystal clear quality and you have a lot of control over output size. An automatic lens cover springs up when the camera is turned off or in review mode, as well as a built in video light and accessory shoe for another light or microphone.It comes with a 64mm lens attached, meaning that you can see more in the output video (most camcorders have a 35mm lens with a 50mm lens attachment)

Less desirable aspects are the fact that the camera records to .mts file format which requires a program much more advanced than Windows Movie Maker (i.e. Sony Vegas, Final Cut, Adobe Premiere etc.) Also, the two built in mics are located on either side of the lens like ears on your head. While this does provide the "surround sound" effect, wind noise is easily picked up. This camera does not perform well in low light conditions either.

All in all, although some aspects of the camera are less desirable, they are not impossible to live with, unlike some other camcorders. This camera is great value for money and the 1080i footage in cinema mode (film quality footage) will not let you down.