Canon VIXIZ HFM30 User manual

PUB. DIE-0339-000
HD Camcorder
Instruction Manual
!
!"#$
2
Introduction
Important Usage Instructions
WARNING!
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
WARNING!
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK AND TO REDUCE ANNOYING
INTERFERENCE, USE THE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES ONLY.
COPYRIGHT WARNING:
Unauthorized recording of copyrighted materials may infringe on the rights of copyright
owners and be contrary to copyright laws.
HD Camcorder, VIXIA HF M30 A / VIXIA HF M31 A / VIXIA HF M300 A systems
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and use in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Use of shielded cable is required to comply with class B limits in Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.
Do not make any changes or modifications to the equipment unless otherwise specified in the manual.
If such changes or modifications should be made, you could be required to stop operation of the
equipment.
Canon U.S.A., Inc.
One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042, U.S.A.
Tel No. [phone]
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.
WARNING:
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not expose this product to dripping or splashing.
!"#$
3
The Mains plug is used as the disconnect device. The Mains plug shall remain readily operable
to disconnect the plug in case of an accident.
CAUTION:
• Danger of explosion if the wrong type of batteries are attached. Use only the same type of
batteries.
• Do not expose batteries or product to excessive heat such as the inside of a car under
direct sunlight, fire, etc.
I
mportant
W
arn
i
ng
CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER
(OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING
TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
!"#$%&'
(%)*+&,+-.-!$(%!+)/&!*
0&+'&$+&1-'
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the
user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure, that may
be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence
of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying
the product.
!"#$
4
In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to the Canon HD Camcorder
VIXIA HF M30 A / VIXIA HF M31 A / VIXIA HF M300 A and all its accessories.
1 Read these instructions.
2 Keep these instructions.
3 Heed all warnings.
4 Follow all instructions.
5 Do not use this apparatus near water.
6 Clean only with dry cloth.
7 Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
8 Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug
has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a
third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the
obsolete outlet.
9 Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
10 Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
11 Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
12 Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus
has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to
rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
13 Read Instructions — All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the
product is operated.
14 Retain Instructions — The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future
reference.
15 Heed Warnings — All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be
adhered to.
16 Follow Instructions — All operating and maintenance instructions should be followed.
17 Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or
aerosol cleaners. The product should be cleaned only as recommended in this manual.
18 Accessories — Do not use accessories not recommended in this manual as they may be
hazardous.
19 Avoid magnetic or electric fields — Do not use the camera close to TV transmitters, portable
communication devices or other sources of electric or magnetic radiation. They may cause
picture interference, or permanently damage the camera.
20 Water and Moisture — Hazard of electric shock — Do not use this product near water or in
rainy/moist situations.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
!"#$

5
21 Placing or Moving — Do not place on an unstable cart, stand, tripod,
bracket or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or
adult, and serious damage to the product.
A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops,
excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart
combination to overturn.
22 Power Sources — The CA-570 Compact Power Adapter should be
operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not
sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power
company. Regarding other power sources such as battery power, refer to instructions in this
manual.
23 Polarization — The CA-570 Compact Power Adapter is equipped with a polarized 2-prong
plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). The 2-prong polarized plug will fit into
the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug
fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit, contact your electrician
to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.
24 Power Cord Protection — Power cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to plugs
and the point from which the cords exit the product.
25 Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an
outside antenna is connected to the
product, be sure the antenna is
grounded so as to provide some
protection against voltage surges
and built-up static charges. Section
810 of the National Electrical Code,
ANSI / NFPA No. 70—1984,
provides information with respect to
proper grounding of the mast and
supporting structure, grounding of
the lead-in wire to an antenna
discharge unit, size of grounding
conductors, location of antenna
discharge unit, connection to
grounding electrodes, and
requirements for the grounding electrode. See figure 1.
26 Lightning — For added protection of this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left
unattended and unused for long periods of time, disconnect it from the wall outlet and
disconnect the antenna. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-
line surges.
27 Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of
fire or electric shock.
28 Objects and Liquid Entry — Never push objects of any kind into this product through
openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a
fire or electric shock. Be careful not to spill liquid of any kind onto the product.
29 Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing covers
may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified
service personnel.
EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS PER NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODE
ANTENNA LEAD
IN WIRE
ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)
GROUND CLAMPS
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250. PART H)
NEC - NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODE
ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT
GROUND
CLAMP
Fig. 1
!"#$
6
30 Damage Requiring Service — Disconnect this product from the wall outlet and all power
sources including battery, and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the
following conditions:
a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
b. If any liquid has been spilled onto, or objects have fallen into, the product.
c. If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
d. If the product does not operate normally even if you follow the operating instructions.
Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operation instructions. Improper
adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work
by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.
e. If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.
f. When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance. This indicates a need for
service.
31 Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician
has used replacement parts that are specified by Canon or that have the same
characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric
shock or other hazards.
32 Safety Check — Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service
technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in safe operating order.
33 Heat — The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat
registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
When replacement of the power supply is required, please return it to the responsible
nearest Canon Service Center and please replace it with the same type number CA-570.
The Adapter can be used with a power supply between 100 and 240 V AC. For areas
where 120 V AC power is not used, you will need a special plug adapter. Contact your
nearest Canon Service Center for further information.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
The serial number of this product can be found at the battery attach-
ment unit of the camcorder. Write down the number and other informa-
tion here and retain this book as a permanent record of your purchase
to aid identification in case of theft.
Model Name: VIXIA HF M30 A / VIXIA HF M31 A / VIXIA HF M300 A
Date of Purchase: Serial No.:
Purchased From:
Dealer Address:
Dealer Phone No.:
!"#$
7
Trademark Acknowledgements
• The SD logo is a trademark. The SDHC logo is a trademark.
• Microsoft and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and/or other countries.
• Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
• “x.v.Color” and the “x.v.Color” logo are trademarks.
• HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are
trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.
• “AVCHD” and the “AVCHD” logo are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation
and Sony Corporation.
• Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.
“Dolby” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
• YouTube is a trademark of Google Inc.
• Other names and products not mentioned above may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective companies.
• This device incorporates exFAT technology licensed from Microsoft.
• ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT OTHER THAN CONSUMER PERSONAL USE IN ANY MANNER THAT COMPLIES WITH
THE MPEG-2 STANDARD FOR ENCODING VIDEO INFORMATION FOR PACKAGED MEDIA IS EXPRESSLY
PROHIBITED WITHOUT A LICENSE UNDER APPLICABLE PATENTS IN THE MPEG-2 PATENT PORTFOLIO, WHICH
LICENSE IS AVAILABLE FROM MPEG LA, L.L.C., 250 STEELE STREET, SUITE 300, DENVER, COLORADO 80206.
• This product is licensed under AT&T patents for the MPEG-4 standard and may be used for encoding MPEG-4
compliant video and/or decoding MPEG-4 compliant video that was encoded only (1) for a personal and non-
commercial purpose or (2) by a video provider licensed under the AT&T patents to provide MPEG-4 compliant
video. No license is granted or implied for any other use for MPEG-4 standard.
!"#$
8
Exciting Features and New Functions
High-Definition Video
Your camcorder’s full high-definition
image sensor (Full HD CMOS) captures
video at a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080
pixels2. Videos are then recorded in the
memory in high definition, using AVCHD
specifications3.
With your new HD camcorder, capturing
the special moments in your life with amazing image quality and in lifelike
vibrant colors is easy and fun!
!Dual Flash
Memory
!
Relay Recording
You can record in the built-in
memory or on commercially
available memory cards ("37).
The built-in memory almost full?
Use the memory card slot to keep
on recording video without
interruption ("39).
1
1,080
lines
!"
1“Full HD 1080” refers to Canon camcorders compliant with high-definition video
composed of 1,080 vertical pixels (scanning lines).
2Video is recorded at this resolution only when the recording mode is set to MXP or
FXP mode. In other recording modes, the picture is recorded at 1,440 x 1,080
pixels.
3AVCHD is a standard for recording high-definition video. With AVCHD specifica-
tions, the video signal is recorded using MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 compression and
the audio signal is recorded in Dolby Digital.
!"#$

9
Smart AUTO ("43)
Smart AUTO automatically selects the best
scene mode for the scene you want to
shoot. You get spectacular recordings
every time without worrying about settings.
Video Snapshot
("68)
Shoot or capture short scenes
and arrange them into a video
clip set to your favorite
background music.
Face Detection ("66) Image Stabilization
The camcorder automatically
detects people’s faces and
adjusts the focus and other
settings accordingly for beautiful
results.
Dynamic IS ("64)
compensates for camcorder
shake when you shoot video
while walking. Powered IS
("65) will produce stable shots
when you zoom in on distant
subjects (full telephoto).
Just point the camcorder
and it will automatically
select the best settings for
your subject
!"#$
10
Enjoying your Recordings on Other Devices
Eye-Fi
SD
AVCHD
MPEG-2
SD-Video
Connect the camcorder
to an HDTV ("124)
Connect the camcorder to
the optional DW-100 DVD
Burner ("131, 135)
AVCHD discs4
Photo DVDs
Play video directly
from your recorded
memory card
AVCHD-compatible HDTVs and
digital recorders with an SD
memory card slot5.
Use an Eye-Fi card ("145) to
wirelessly upload recordings to your
computer or a video sharing Web site.
Save or upload to
the Web.
Standard Definition
Convert your HD movies, in the
camcorder itself, to standard definition
files ("136, 142).
High Definition
Standard DVDs
Use the supplied software
ImageMixer 3 SE ("128, 141).
4AVCHD discs containing scenes recorded in MXP mode cannot be created with
the optional DW-100 DVD burner. Use the supplied software ImageMixer 3 SE to
back up such scenes.
5Refer to the instruction manual of the device. Depending on the device used, cor-
rect playback may not be possible even if the device is AVCHD-compatible. In
such case, play back the recordings on the memory card using the camcorder.
!"#$
11
!"#$
12 !Table of contents
"Introduction
8 Exciting Features and New Functions
16 About this Manual
18 Getting to Know the Camcorder
18 Supplied Accessories and CD-ROMs
20 Names of Parts
"Preparations
23 Getting Started
23 Charging the Battery Pack
26 Preparing the Accessories
28 Adjusting the Position and Brightness of the LCD Screen
30 Basic Operation of the Camcorder
30 Using the Touch Screen
31 Operating Modes
32 Using the Menus
35 First Time Settings
35 Setting the Date and Time
36 Changing the Language
36 Changing the Time Zone
37 Using a Memory Card
37 Memory Cards Compatible for Use with the Camcorder
38 Inserting and Removing a Memory Card
38 !Selecting the Memory for the Recordings
39 !Relay Recording of Movies
40 Initializing the Built-in Memory (!only) or
Memory Card
Table of contents
!"#$

Table of contents !13
"Dual Shot Mode
42 Basic Recording
42 Shooting Video and Taking Photos in Dual Shot Mode
43 About the Smart AUTO mode
46 Zooming
47 Quick Start Function
"Video
49 Basic Playback
49 Playing Back the Video
52 The Index Selection Screen: Selecting the Content to Play
Back
54 3D Flip View
55 Narrowing Down the Scenes Shown in the Index Screen
56 Deleting Scenes
58 Advanced Functions
58 Shooting Video in !Manual Mode
59 Selecting the Video Quality (Recording Mode)
60 Special Scene Recording Programs
63 Cinema Mode: Giving a Cinematic Look to your
Recordings
64 Advanced Image Stabilization
65 Pre-Recording
66 Face Detection
68 Touch & Track
68 Video Snapshot
69 Digital Effects
70 Manually Setting the Shutter Speed or Aperture
73 Manual Exposure Adjustment
74 Automatic Gain Control (AGC) Limit
74 Manual Focus Adjustment
76 White Balance
77 Image Effects
78 Mini Video Light
79 Self Timer
80 Audio Recording Level
82 Using Headphones
!"#$
14 !Table of contents
83 Using the Mini Advanced Shoe
84 Using an External Microphone
85 Using a Zoom Remote Controller
87 Selecting the Playback Starting Point
89 Playing Back Scenes Set to Background Music
93 Onscreen Displays and Data Code
94 Playlist and Scene Operations
94 Editing the Playlist: Adding, Deleting, Moving and Playing
Back
96 Capturing Photos and Video Snapshot Scenes from a
Movie
98 Dividing Scenes
"Photos
100 Basic Playback
100 Viewing Photos
102 Deleting Photos
104 Additional Functions
104 Taking Photos in !Manual Mode
105 Selecting Photo Size and Quality
107 Flash
109 Drive Mode: Continuous Shooting and Exposure
Bracketing
110 Taking Photos while Recording Movies
(Simultaneous Recording)
112 Light Metering Mode
112 Slideshow
113 Magnifying Photos during Playback
114 Rotating Photos
114 Histogram Display
115 Protecting Photos
117 Printing Photos
117 Printing Photos (Direct Print)
119 Print Orders
!"#$
Table of contents !15
"External Connections
121 Terminals on the Camcorder
122 Connection Diagrams
124 Playback on a TV Screen
126 Saving and Sharing Your Recordings
126 !Copying Recordings to a Memory Card
128 Saving Recordings on a Computer
131 Saving Movies onto High-Definition Discs
(AVCHD/Blu-ray Discs)
135 !Saving Movies onto Standard-Definition Discs
(DVD)
139 Saving Photos on Photo DVDs
140 Copying Recordings to an External Video Recorder
141 !Uploading Movies to Video Sharing Web Sites
"Additional Information
147 Appendix: Menu Options Lists
147 FUNC. Panel
151 Setup Menus
163 Appendix: Onscreen Icons and Displays
168 Trouble?
168 Troubleshooting
175 List of Messages
186 Do’s and Don’ts
186 Handling Precautions
191 Maintenance/Others
192 Using the Camcorder Abroad
193 General Information
193 Accessories
194 Optional Accessories
199 Product Codes
200 Specifications
204 Index
!"#$
16 !Introduction
About this Manual
Thank you for purchasing the Canon VIXIA HF M31 / VIXIA HF M30 /
VIXIA HF M300. Please read this manual carefully before you use the
camcorder and retain it for future reference. Should your camcorder fail
to operate correctly, refer to Troubleshooting ("168).
Conventions Used in this Manual
• IMPORTANT: Precautions related to the camcorder’s operation.
• NOTES: Additional topics that complement the basic operating
procedures.
• POINTS TO CHECK: Restrictions or requirements regarding the
function described.
•": Reference page number within this manual.
•!: Text that applies only to the model(s) shown in the icon.
• The following terms are used in this manual:
When not specified as “memory card” or “built-in memory”, the term
“memory” by itself refers to both.
“Scene” refers to one movie unit from the point you press the
#button to start recording until you press again to pause
the recording.
• The photos included in this manual are simulated pictures taken with
a still camera. Unless indicated otherwise, illustrations and menu
icons refer to the $.
To complete some operations you will need to refer also to other
instruction manuals. This will be indicated with the following icons:
%Refer to the ‘Photo Applications’ Instruction Manual,
included as a PDF file in the supplied Camcorder Supple-
mental Disc.
&Refer to the instruction manual of the optional DW-100 DVD
Burner.
!"#$

Introduction !17
Self Timer
•nappears.
• Repeat, selecting [BOff], to turn off the self timer.
mode: In record pause mode, press g.
The camcorder starts recording after a 10-second countdown*. The
countdown appears on the screen.
mode: Press j, first halfway to activate the autofocus
and then fully.
The camcorder will record the photo after a 10-second countdown*. The
countdown appears on the screen.
* 2 seconds when using the wireless controller.
NOTES
• Once the countdown has begun, any of the following actions will cancel
the self timer.
- Pressing g(when recording movies) or jfully (when
recording photos).
- Turning off the camcorder.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] 8[MENU] 888[Self Timer] 8
[AOn n] 8[a]
Brackets [ ]are used to refer to control
buttons and menu options you will
touch on the screen and to other
onscreen messages and displays.
indicates that a function is available in the
operating mode indicated and indicates
that the function is not available. For a detailed
explanation refer to Operating Modes ("31).
The names of physical buttons
and switches on the
camcorder are indicated within
a “button” frame.
For example '.
The (arrow is used to abbreviate menu selections.
For a detailed explanation on how to use the menus,
refer to Using the Menus ("32). For a concise
summary of all available menu options and settings,
refer to the appendix Menu Options Lists ("147).
!"#$
18 !Introduction
Getting to Know the Camcorder
Supplied Accessories and CD-ROMs
The following accessories are supplied with the camcorder:
!CA-570 Compact Power Adapter
(incl. power cord)
BP-808 Battery Pack"
!WL-D89 Wireless Controller
(incl. CR2025 lithium button battery)
STV-250N Stereo Video Cable"
Yellow • Red • White plugs
!CTC-100/S Component Cable
Red • Green • Blue plugs
IFC-300PCU USB Cable"
!Quick Guide
!"#$
Introduction !19
The following CD-ROMs and software are supplied with the camcorder:
•PIXELA Application - Disc 1 CD-ROM* and ‘PIXELA Applications’
Installation Guide
- ImageMixer 3 SE Transfer Utilities – Software for saving and
transferring movies and music files you can use as background music.
•PIXELA Application - Disc 2 CD-ROM*
- ImageMixer 3 SE Video Tools – Software for managing, editing, and
playing back movies.
•!Instruction Manual/Photo Applications Ver.34.0*/Music Data
Disc CD-ROM (referred in the manual as the Camcorder Supplemental
Disc). Contains the following components.
- Full-version instruction manual of the camcorder (this PDF file).
- Photo Applications - Software for saving, managing, and printing
photos*.
- Music files that can be used as background music during playback**.
*The CD-ROM includes the instruction manual of the software (on PDF file).
**These music files are for exclusive use with the supplied software ImageMixer 3
SE. The disc cannot be played back on CD players. For more details, refer to
‘ImageMixer 3 SE Software Guide’ on the PIXELA Application Disc 1 CD-ROM.
!"#$
20 !Introduction
Names of Parts
1DISP. (onscreen display) button
("93)/
BATT. INFO button ("167)
2)(camera/play) button ("31)
3Speaker ("51)
4Memory card slot cover
5Memory card slot ("38)
6MIC terminal ("85)
7AV OUT terminal ("121, 123)/
*(headphones) terminal ("82)
8BATTERY RELEASE switch ("24)
9ACCESS indicator ("42, 58, 104)
Aq Strap mount ("27)
Aa COMPONENT OUT terminal
("121, 123)
As USB terminal ("121, 124)
Ad HDMI OUT terminal ("121, 122)
Af Grip belt ("27)
Ag Instant AF sensor ("152)
Ah Stereo microphone ("80)
Aj Mini video light ("78)
Ak Flash ("107)
Left side view
Front view
Right side view
!"#$

Introduction !21
Al Mini advanced shoe ("83)
Sq Mode switch ("31)
Sa PHOTO button ("42, 104)
Ss Zoom lever ("46)
Sd VIDEO SNAP (video snapshot) button
("68)
Sf POWER button
Sg ON/OFF (CHG) (charge) indicator:
Green – ON
Orange – Standby ("47)
Red – Charging ("23)
Sh Remote sensor ("26)
Sj LCD touch screen ("28, 30)
Sk POWERED IS button ("65)/
WEB button* ("141)
Sl Battery attachment unit ("23)
Dq START/STOP button ("42, 58)
Da DC IN terminal ("23)
* !only.
LCD panel
Top view
Back view
!"#$
22 !Introduction
Wireless Controller WL-D89
Ds Serial number
Dd Tripod socket ("187)
1START/STOP button ("42, 58)
2!(index selection) button ("52)
Press and hold for more than 2
seconds to switch between shooting
and playback mode.
3MENU button ("33, 151)
4DISP. (onscreen display) button
("93)
5SET button
6+(stop) button ("49)
7PHOTO button ("42, 104)
8Zoom buttons ("46)
9Navigation buttons ( ,/-/.//)
Aq //0(play/pause) button ("49)
B
ottom v
i
ew
!"#$
Preparations !23
Preparations
This chapter describes basic operations, such as using the
touch panel, navigating the menus, and first time settings to
help you learn more about your camcorder.
Getting Started
Charging the Battery Pack
The camcorder can be powered with a battery pack or directly using
the compact power adapter. Charge the battery pack before use.
For approximate charging times and recording/playback times with a
fully charged battery pack, refer to Charging Times ("195) and
Recording and Playback Times ("195).
1 Connect the power cord to the
compact power adapter.
2 Plug the power cord into a power
outlet.
3 Connect the compact power
adapter to the camcorder’s DC IN
terminal.
4 Attach the battery pack to the
camcorder.
Press the battery pack softly into the
battery attachment unit and slide it up
until it clicks in place.
DC IN
terminal
!"#$
24 !Preparations
5 Charging will start when the
camcorder is turned off.
• If the camcorder was on, the green
ON/OFF (CHG) indicator will go out
when you turn off the camcorder.
After a moment, the ON/OFF (CHG)
indicator will start flashing in red
(battery pack charging). The red ON/
OFF (CHG) indicator will go out when
the battery pack is fully charged.
• If the indicator flashes quickly, refer to
Troubleshooting ("168).
To remove the battery pack
1 Slide 1in the
direction of the arrow and hold it
pressed down.
2 Slide the battery pack down and
then pull it out.
IMPORTANT
• Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the com-
pact power adapter. After pressing 2to turn off the camcorder,
important data is updated in the memory. Be sure to wait until the green
ON/OFF (CHG) indicator goes out.
• We recommend charging the battery pack in temperatures between
10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F and 86 °F). Outside the temperature range of
0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F), charging will not start.
• Do not connect to the camcorder’s DC IN terminal or to the compact
power adapter any electrical equipment that is not expressly recom-
mended for use with this camcorder.
ON/OFF (CHG) (charge) indicator
BATTERY RELEASE switch
!"#$

Preparations !25
• To prevent equipment breakdowns and excessive heating, do not con-
nect the supplied compact power adapter to voltage converters for
overseas travels or special power sources such as those on aircraft and
ships, DC-AC inverters, etc.
NOTES
• The battery pack will be charged only when the camcorder is off.
• If remaining battery time is an issue, you can power the camcorder
using the compact power adapter so the battery pack will not be con-
sumed.
• Charged battery packs continue to discharge naturally. Therefore,
charge them on the day of use, or the day before, to ensure a full
charge.
• We recommend that you prepare battery packs to last 2 to 3 times
longer than you think you might need.
•USA and Canada only: The Lithium ion/polymer battery that
powers the product is recyclable. Please call
1-800-8-BATTERY for information on how to recycle this
battery.
!"#$
26 !Preparations
Preparing the Accessories
Wireless Controller
First, insert the supplied CR2025 lithium button battery into the wire-
less controller.
1 Press the tab in the direction of the
arrow and pull out the battery
holder.
2 Place the lithium button battery with
the + side facing up.
3 Insert the battery holder.
To use the wireless controller
Point the wireless controller at the camcorder’s remote sensor when
you press the buttons.
You can rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to use the wireless controller
from the front of the camcorder.
NOTES
• The wireless controller may not work properly when the remote sensor
is situated under strong light sources or direct sunlight.
Tab
!"#$
Preparations !27
Grip Belt and Straps
Fasten the grip belt.
Adjust the grip belt so that you can reach
the zoom lever with your index finger, and
the #button with your thumb.
To remove the grip belt
1 Lift the padded handgrip's flap and detach the strap from the Velcro
pad.
2 Pull the strap to remove it first from the front bracket on the
camcorder, then to unthread it from the handgrip and finally to
remove it from the rear bracket on the camcorder.
!"#$
28 !Preparations
To attach an optional wrist strap
Pass the attaching end of the wrist
strap through the rear bracket on the
camcorder, thread the wrist strap
through the loop and fasten.
You can also attach the wrist strap to the
strap mount on the grip belt to use both
for extra convenience and protection.
To attach an optional shoulder strap
Pass the ends of the shoulder strap through the strap mount on the grip
belt and adjust the length of the strap.
Adjusting the Position and Brightness of the LCD Screen
Rotating the LCD Panel
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees.
• You can rotate the panel 90 degrees downward.
• You can rotate the panel 180 degrees toward the lens. Rotating the
LCD panel 180 degrees can be useful in the following cases:
- To include yourself in the picture when recording with the self timer.
- To allow the camcorder to be operated with the wireless controller
from the front.
!"#$

Preparations !29
NOTES
•About the LCD screen: The screen is produced using extremely high-pre-
cision manufacturing techniques, with more than 99.99% of the pixels
operating to specification. Less than 0.01% of the pixels may occasion-
ally misfire or appear as black, red, blue or green dots. This has no
effect on the recorded image and does not constitute a malfunction.
LCD Backlight
When recording in bright places it may be difficult to use the LCD
screen. Turn on the LCD backlight to make it brighter.
With the camcorder on, hold 3pressed down for more than 2
seconds.
Repeat this action to switch the LCD backlight between off (normal) and
on (bright).
NOTES
• The LCD backlight does not affect the brightness of the recordings.
• Using the bright setting will shorten the effective usage time of the bat-
tery pack.
• You can further adjust the brightness of the LCD screen with the
!([LCD Brightness] setting, or dim it with the !([LCD
Screen Dimmer] setting to use in places where the light from the LCD
screen can be a nuisance.
180°
90° Subject can monitor the LCD screen
180°
!"#$
30 !Preparations
Basic Operation of the Camcorder
Using the Touch Screen
The control buttons and menu items that appear on the touch screen
change dynamically depending on the operating mode and the task
you are performing. With the intuitive touch screen interface you have
all the controls at your fingertips.
Touch
Touch a menu item to select it, or a
control button to perform the corre-
sponding action. For some functions,
such as Touch & Track ("68) and face
detection ("66), you can touch a sub-
ject that appears on the touch screen to
select it and have the camcorder
choose the optimal settings.
Drag
Swipe your finger up and down or left
and right across the screen to scroll
menus, to browse through index screen
pages or to adjust slider controls (for
example, to adjust the volume).
IMPORTANT
• The camcorder uses a pressure-sensitive touch screen. Press firmly
when using touch operations.
• In the following cases, you may not be able to perform touch operations
correctly.
- Operating the touch screen with wet or gloved hands or using your
fingernails or other hard-tipped objects such as ballpoint pens.
- Applying excessive force or forcefully scratching the touch screen.
- Attaching commercially available screen protectors or adhesive film
onto the touch screen's surface.
!"#$
Preparations !31
• For details about how to take care of the touch screen, refer to Handling
Precautions ("186), Cleaning ("191).
Operating Modes
Recording
When recording video or photos, the camcorder’s operating mode is
determined by the position of the mode switch and the onscreen con-
trol buttons.
*The mode icon displayed will change according to the optimal mode selected by the
Smart AUTO function ("43).
Playback
Press the camera/play button 4to switch the cam-
corder between camera (recording) mode and playback
mode. The playback mode you switch into depends on the
initial recording mode.
You can press 4when the camcorder is off to turn it
on directly in playback mode.
Operating
mode Mode switch Onscreen icon Operation
Dual Shot Record video and take photos easily, letting the camcorder take care of all the
settings – Great for beginners or if you just prefer not to bother with detailed camcorder
settings.
*Easy recording of movies and
photos ("42).
Flexible recording Use one of the dedicated recording modes to enjoy full access to the
menus and advanced functions and change the camcorder’s settings to your preference.
Touch [5] to record movies
("58).
Touch [6] to record photos
("104).
!"#$
32 !Preparations
NOTES
•!When switching to a playback mode, the memory selected
for playback will be the same currently used for recording.
• You can also press and hold "on the wireless controller for more
than 2 seconds to switch between recording and playback mode.
Using the Menus
Many of the camcorder’s functions can be adjusted from the FUNC.
panel and the setup menus. In mode, however, menus cannot be
accessed and, except in a few cases, most menu settings will return to
their default values.
For details about the available menu options and settings, refer to the
appendix Menu Options Lists ("147).
The FUNC. Panel and Edit Panel
In and mode, the FUNC. panel shows a convenient over-
view of frequently used shooting functions. Touch [FUNC.] to access
the FUNC. panel and then touch the function you want to set or adjust.
You may need to drag your finger up and down along the scroll bar to
find the control button of the desired function.
Initial mode Operating mode Operation
Press 4in
or mode.
Playing back movies
([Original] index screen) ("49).
Press 4in mode. Viewing photos
([Photos] index screen) ("100).
Operating modes:
Touch the control
button of the
desired function
Drag your finger up
and down along the
scroll bar to display
the rest of the panel
!"#$

Preparations !33
In and mode, touch [Edit] to display a similar panel contain-
ing the various operations that are available after selecting one or more
scenes or photos (for example, deleting, adding scenes to the playlist,
protecting photos, etc.). Touch the control button of the desired opera-
tion.
The Setup Menus
1 or mode only: Touch
[FUNC.]
2 Touch [MENU] to open the setup
menus.
You can also press 7on the
wireless controller to open the setup
menus.
3 Touch the tab of the desired
menu.
4 Drag your finger up and down along the scroll bar to bring the
setting you want to change into the orange selection bar.
Menu items not available appear grayed out.
5 When the desired menu item is in the orange bar, touch inside the
frame on the right.
6 Touch the desired option and touch [#].
You can touch [#] to close the menu at any time.
Example of the Edit panel in mode
Touch the control
button of the desired
operation
!"#$
34 !Preparations
NOTES
• A small font size is used in menu screens so you can see the options
currently selected. You can enlarge the font size by setting !(
[Font Size] to ["Large] but only the icons of the currently selected
options will appear on the screen.
!"#$
Preparations !35
First Time Settings
Setting the Date and Time
You will need to set the date and time of
the camcorder before you can start
using it. The [Date/Time] screen will
appear automatically when the cam-
corder’s clock is not set.
When the [Date/Time] screen appears,
the year will be selected.
1 Touch a field you want to change (year, month, day, hours or
minutes).
2 Touch [!] or ["] to change the field as necessary.
3 Set the correct date and time by changing all the fields in the
same way.
4 Touch [Y.M.D], [M.D,Y] or [D.M.Y] to select the date format you
prefer.
5 Touch [24H] to use 24-hour clock or leave this control unchecked
to use 12-hour clock (AM/PM).
6 Touch [OK] to start the clock and close the setup screen.
NOTES
• When you do not use the camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in
rechargeable lithium battery may discharge completely and the date
and time setting may be lost. In such case, recharge the built-in lithium
battery ("189) and set the time zone, date and time again.
• To change the date and time later on (not during the initial setup), open
the [Date/Time] screen from the setup menus:
* Only when performing the procedure in a recording mode.
[FUNC.]* ([MENU] (!([Date/Time]
!"#$
36 !Preparations
Changing the Language
The default language of the camcorder is English. You can set it to one
of 22 other languages.
* Only when performing the procedure in a recording mode.
NOTES
• Some control buttons, such as [ZOOM], [FUNC.] or [MENU], will appear
in English regardless of the language selected.
Changing the Time Zone
Change the time zone to match your location. The default setting is
New York.
1 Open the [Time Zone/DST] screen.
* Only when performing the procedure in a recording mode.
2 Touch [!] to set the home time zone, or ["] to set the time zone
of your destination when you are traveling.
3 Touch [!] or ["] to set the desired time zone. If necessary, touch
[#] to adjust for daylight saving time.
4 Touch [#] to close the menu.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.]* ([MENU] (!([Language !] (
Desired language ([#]
Operating modes:
[FUNC.]* ([MENU] (!([Time Zone/DST]
!"#$

Preparations !37
Using a Memory Card
Memory Cards Compatible for Use with the Camcorder
You can use commercially available SDHC (SD high capacity)
memory cards and SD memory cards with this camcorder. How-
ever, depending on the memory card, you may not be able to record
movies. Refer to the table below.
As of October 2009, the movie recording function has been tested
using SD/SDHC memory cards made by Panasonic, Toshiba and
SanDisk.
* Depending on the memory card used, it may not be possible to record movies.
Eye-Fi Cards
This product is not guaranteed to support Eye-Fi card functions
(including wireless transfer). In case of an issue with an Eye-Fi card,
please check with the card manufacturer.
Also note that an approval is required to use Eye-Fi cards in many
countries or regions. Without approval, use of the card is not permit-
ted. If it is unclear whether the card has been approved for use in the
area, please check with the card manufacturer.
Memory card Capacity SD Speed Class Recording movies
SD
memory cards
64 MB or less – –
128 MB or more
–8*
8
SDHC
memory cards Over 2 GB
8
About the SD Speed Class:
The SD Speed Class is a standard that indicates the minimum guaran-
teed data transfer speed of SD/SDHC memory cards. When you buy a
new memory card, look for the Speed Class logo on the package.
We recommend using memory cards rated Speed Class 4, 6 or 10.
!"#$
38 !Preparations
Inserting and Removing a Memory Card
Make sure to initialize ("40) all memory cards before using them with
this camcorder.
1 Turn off the camcorder.
Make sure the ON/OFF (CHG) indicator
is off.
2 Open the memory card slot cover.
3 Insert the memory card straight,
with the label facing up, all the way
into the memory card slot until it
clicks.
4 Close the memory card slot cover.
Do not force the cover closed if the
memory card is not correctly inserted.
To remove the memory card
Push the memory card once to release it. When the memory card
springs out, pull it all the way out.
IMPORTANT
• Memory cards have front and back sides that are not interchangeable.
Inserting a memory card facing the wrong direction can cause a mal-
function of the camcorder. Be sure to insert the memory card as
described in step 3.
!Selecting the Memory for the Recordings
You can select to record your movies and photos in the built-in mem-
ory or on a memory card. The built-in memory is the default memory
for recording both.
Operating modes:
!"#$
Preparations !39
POINTS TO CHECK
• Be sure you understand the information provided in Eye-Fi Cards
("37) before using an Eye-Fi card.
* When selecting the memory, you can check the approximate available recording
time/number of photos, based on currently used settings.
NOTES
!Select to record movies in the built-in memory if you later
want to convert the movies to standard definition in order to upload
them to the Web or to create standard DVDs.
!Relay Recording of Movies
You can activate the relay recording so if the built-in memory becomes
full while recording movies, the recording will continue uninterrupted
on the memory card.
1 Insert a memory card that contains no video recordings into the
camcorder.
2 Activate the relay recording.
* The approximate available recording time will now reflect the combined space in
the built-in memory and on the memory card.
[FUNC.] ([MENU] (#(
[Rec Media for Movies] or [Rec Media for Photos] (
[#] (built-in memory)or ["] (memory card)* ([#]
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ( [MENU] ( # ( [Rec Media for Movies] (
[
# ] ( [Relay Recording] ( [ $ ]* ( [ # ]
!"#$
40 !Preparations
NOTES
• Any of the following actions will deactivate the relay recording function:
- Turning off the camcorder.
- Opening the memory card slot cover.
- Changing the position of the mode switch.
- Changing the camcorder's operating mode.
- Selecting the memory card as the memory for recording movies.
Initializing the Built-in Memory (!only) or Memory Card
Initialize memory cards when you use them with this camcorder for the
first time. You can also initialize a memory card or the built-in memory
(!only) to permanently delete all the recordings it contains.
!At the time of purchase, the built-in memory comes pre-ini-
tialized and contains music files for use as background music during
playback.
1 Power the camcorder using the compact power adapter.
Do not disconnect the power source or turn off the camcorder until the
initialization is completed.
2 Initialize the memory.
!
9
Operating modes:
[FUNC.]* ([MENU] (!([Initialize #/"] (
[#Built-in Mem.] or ["Mem. Card] ([Initialize] (
[Complete Initialization]* ([Yes]** ([OK] ([#]
[FUNC.]* ([MENU] (!([Initialize "] (
[Initialize] ([Complete Initialization]* ([Yes]** (
[OK] ([#]
!"#$

Preparations !41
* Touch this option if you want to physically erase all the data rather than just clear
the file allocation table of the memory.
**If you selected the [Complete Initialization] option, you can touch [Cancel] ([OK]
to cancel the initialization while it is in progress. All recordings will be erased and
the memory can be used without any problem.
IMPORTANT
• Initializing the memory will permanently erase all recordings. Lost origi-
nal recordings cannot be recovered. Make sure you save important
recordings in advance using an external device ("126).
• Initializing a memory card will permanently erase any music files you
may have transferred to the card. (!The music files that come
pre-installed in the built-in memory will be restored after it is initialized.)
- Windows users: Use the supplied software ImageMixer 3 SE to
transfer music files from the supplied Camcorder Supplemental Disc
to a memory card after it is initialized. For details, refer to the
‘ImageMixer 3 SE Software Guide’ (PDF file).
- Mac OS users: Use Finder to transfer music files from the [MUSIC]
folder on the supplied Camcorder Supplemental Disc to a memory
card after it is initialized. Refer to About the music files ("203) for the
folder structure of the memory card.
• At the time of purchase, Eye-Fi cards contain the necessary network
configuration software. Be sure to install the software and complete the
required configuration setup before you initialize the Eye-Fi card prior to
using it with this camcorder.
!"#$
42 !Dual Shot Mode
Dual Shot Mode
This chapter covers how to easily record video and photos in
the all-automatic Dual Shot mode, and how to use basic shoot-
ing functions like zoom and Quick Start. To enjoy full access to
menus and more advanced functions, refer to the relevant
chapters for video ("58) and photos ("104).
Basic Recording
Shooting Video and Taking Photos in Dual Shot Mode
1 Set the mode switch to :.
2 Turn on the camcorder.
•!By default, movies and
photos are recorded in the built-in
memory. You can select the
memory that will be used to record
movies and photos ("38).
• Please read the IMPORTANT
section ("44) before using an
Eye-Fi card.
To record video
Press #to begin recording.
Press #again to pause the recording.
To take photos
1 Press #halfway.
Once the focus is automatically adjusted, %will turn green and one or
more AF frames will appear.
2 Press #fully.
The ACCESS indicator will flash as the photo is being recorded.
Operating modes:
!"#$
Dual Shot Mode !43
When you have finished recording
1 Make sure that the ACCESS indicator is off.
2 Turn off the camcorder.
3 Close the LCD panel.
About Dual Shot
• Only the following functions are available in mode.
- Zoom ("46).
- Quick Start ("47).
- Video snapshot ("68).
- Advanced image stabilization modes ("64) to shoot video while
walking or to stabilize the shot while zooming in on faraway
subjects (telephoto).
- Face detection ("66) to get beautiful shots of people every
time, tracking the subject even if the person moves.
- Touch & Track ("68) to track other moving subjects, keeping
them in focus and using the best settings to record them.
About the Smart AUTO mode
When shooting in mode, the camcorder will automatically
detect certain characteristics of the subject, background, lighting
conditions, etc. It will then adjust various settings (focus, exposure,
color, image stabilization, image quality, among others), selecting
the best settings for the scene you want to shoot. The Smart AUTO
mode icon will change to one of the following icons.
!"#$
44 !Dual Shot Mode
IMPORTANT
• Observe the following precautions while the ACCESS indicator is on or
flashing. Failing to do so may result in permanent data loss or damage
to the memory.
- Do not open the memory card slot cover.
- Do not disconnect the power source or turn off the camcorder.
- Do not change the camcorder’s operating mode.
Smart AUTO icons
The icon in parentheses appears under backlight conditions.
Background !
(color of the icon) Bright
(grey)
Blue skies
(light blue)
Vivid colors
(green/red)
Sunsets
(orange)
Subject "
People (stationary)
( ) ( ) ( ) —
People (moving)
( ) ( ) ( ) —
Subjects other than people,
such as landscapes
( ) ( ) ( )
Close objects
( ) ( ) ( ) —
Background !
(color of the icon)
Dark
(dark blue)
Subject "Spotlight Night scene
People (stationary) — —
People (moving) — —
Subjects other than people,
such as landscapes
Close objects — —
!"#$

Dual Shot Mode !45
• Be sure to save your recordings regularly ("126), especially after
making important recordings. Canon shall not be liable for any loss or
corruption of data.
• When recording photos on an Eye-Fi card, photos will be uploaded
automatically if you are within the range of a configured network. Always
verify that Eye-Fi cards have been approved in the country/region of
use. See also Using an Eye-Fi card ("146).
NOTES
•About the Power Save mode: If !([Power Saving Mode] ([Auto
Power Off] is set to [!On], the camcorder will shut off automatically
to save power when it is powered by a battery pack and is left without
any operation for 5 minutes. Press 2to turn on the camcorder.
• When recording in bright places, it may be difficult to use the LCD
screen. In such cases, you can turn on the LCD backlight ("29) or
adjust the brightness of the LCD screen with the !([LCD Bright-
ness] setting.
•When taking photos:
- If the subject is not suitable for autofocus, %turns yellow. Set the
camcorder to mode and adjust the focus manually ("74).
- When the subject is too bright, [Overexp.] will flash on the screen. In
such case, use the optional FS-H37U ND filter.
• Under certain conditions, the Smart AUTO icon that appears on the
screen may not match the actual scene. Especially when shooting
against orange or blue backgrounds, the Sunset or one of the Blue
Skies icons may appear and the colors may not look natural. In such
case, we recommend recording in !manual mode ("58, 104).
• In mode, menus cannot be accessed but the following settings
can be changed in advance, before setting the mode switch to :.
-"/#menu: [AF mode], [Auto Slow Shutter], [POWERED IS
Button].
-#menu: [Video Snapshot Length], [Rec Media for Movies]*,
[Recording Mode], [Rec Media for Photos]*, [Photo Size/Quality],
[Simultaneous Recording].
-!menu: All settings.
*!only.
!"#$
46 !Dual Shot Mode
Zooming
There are three ways you can zoom in and out: using the zoom lever on
the camcorder, using the zoom buttons on the wireless controller or
using the zoom controls on the touch screen.
In addition to the 15x optical zoom*, in mode, you can turn on the
300x digital zoom with the "([Digital Zoom] setting.
* When [Image Stabilizer] (FUNC. panel) is set to [$Dynamic], you can use the
advanced zoom to magnify the image up to 18x.
Using the Zoom Lever or Wireless Controller
Move the zoom lever toward ;
(wide angle) to zoom out. Move it
toward <(telephoto) to zoom in.
• By default, the zoom lever operates
at a variable speed – press gently for
a slow zoom; press harder for faster
zooms.
• You can also use the zoom buttons
on the wireless controller.
Using the Touch Screen’s Zoom Controls
1 Display the zoom controls on the touch screen.
* Not necessary in mode.
• The zoom controls appear on the left side of the screen.
Operating modes:
WZoom out TZoom in
[FUNC.]* ([ZOOM]
!"#$
Dual Shot Mode !47
2 Touch the zoom controls to operate
the zoom.
Touch anywhere within the ;area to
zoom out or anywhere within the <area
to zoom in. Touch closer to the center for
a slow zoom ([Speed 1]); touch closer to
the "/#icons for faster zooms ([Speed 3]).
3 Touch [#] to hide the zoom controls.
NOTES
• Keep at least 1 m (3.3 ft.) away from the subject. At full wide angle, you
can focus on a subject as close as 1 cm (0.39 in.).
• In or mode, you can also set "/#(
[Zoom Speed] to one of three constant speeds (3 is the fastest, 1 the
slowest).
• When [Zoom Speed] is set to [$Variable]:
- When you use the <and ;buttons on the wireless controller, the
zoom speed will be constant at [%Speed 3].
- The zoom speed will be faster in record pause mode than when
actually recording, except when pre-recording ("65) is activated.
• See Specifications ("202) for notes about this function when the
recording program is set to ["Underwater] or [#Surface].
Quick Start Function
When you close the LCD panel with the camcorder on, the camcorder
enters the standby mode. In standby mode the camcorder consumes
only about 1/3 the power used when recording, saving energy when
you are using a battery pack. Additionally, when you open the LCD
panel, the camcorder is ready to start recording in approximately
1 second*, allowing you to record the subject right away.
* The actual time required varies depending on the shooting conditions.
1 With the camcorder on and in a recording mode, close the LCD
panel.
A beep will sound and the green ON/OFF (CHG) indicator will change
to orange to indicate the camcorder entered standby mode.
Operating modes:
!"#$
48 !Dual Shot Mode
2 When you wish to resume recording, open the LCD panel.
The ON/OFF (CHG) indicator turns back green and the camcorder is
ready to record.
IMPORTANT
• Do not disconnect the power source during standby mode (while the
ON/OFF (CHG) indicator is lit in orange).
NOTES
• The camcorder will not enter standby mode if the LCD panel is closed
while the ACCESS indicator is on or flashing or while a menu is being
displayed. The camcorder may also not enter standby mode if the LCD
panel is closed while the memory card slot cover is open or when the
battery charge is too low. Check that the ON/OFF (CHG) indicator
changes to orange.
• About standby mode and auto power off:
- The camcorder will power off automatically if left in standby mode for
10 minutes. Press 2to turn on the camcorder.
- You can select the length of time until shut-off or turn off the Quick
Start function altogether with the !([Power Saving Mode] (
[Quick Start (Standby)] setting.
- The usual 5-minute auto power off setting of [Power Saving Mode] is
not applicable while the camcorder is in standby mode.
• Changing the position of the mode switch while the camcorder is in
standby mode will reactivate the camcorder in the operating mode
selected.
!"#$

Video !49
Video
This chapter covers functions related to movies, including play-
back, advanced shooting, advanced functions and playlist and
scene operations. For details about basic video shooting, refer
to Dual Shot Mode ("42).
Basic Playback
Playing Back the Video
1 Press 4.
You can also press and hold "
on the wireless controller for more
than 2 seconds to switch between
shooting and playback mode.
2 Open the [Original] index screen, if
it is not displayed.
3 Look for the scene you want to play back.
Move the zoom lever toward ;to show 15 scenes per page; move it
toward <to show 6 scenes per page.
Operating modes:
[!]([Original]
!"#$
50 !Video
4 Touch the desired scene to play it back.
• Playback will start from the scene selected and continue until the end
of the last scene in the index screen.
• Touch the screen during playback to display the playback controls.
"Memory being read
#Index screen currently displayed
$Drag your finger left for the next index page*
%Drag your finger right for the previous index page*
&Select a different index screen to read different content or
from a different memory (!only) ("52)
'Scene's timeline ("87) and recording information
(Narrow down the scenes shown in the index screen
("55)
* While browsing through index pages, a scroll bar will appear at the
bottom of the screen for a few seconds. When you have a large
number of scenes it may be more convenient to drag your finger
along the scroll bar.
!"#$
Video !51
During playback pause:
"Stop the playback.
#Jump to the beginning of the scene. Double-tap to jump
to the previous scene.
$Pause the playback.
%Drag your finger left and right along the volume bar to
adjust the volume.
&Touch anywhere else to hide the playback controls.
'Fast playback backward*.
(Jump to the next scene.
)Fast playback forward*.
* Touch several times to increase the playback speed to approxi-
mately 5x !15x !60x the normal speed. During fast playback,
touch anywhere on the screen to return to normal playback.
"Resume playback.
#Slow playback backward*.
$Slow playback forward*.
* Touch several times to increase the playback speed 1/8 !1/4 the
normal speed. During slow playback, touch anywhere on the
screen to return to playback pause.
!"#$
52 !Video
IMPORTANT
• Observe the following precautions while the ACCESS indicator is on or
flashing. Failing to do so may result in permanent data loss.
- Do not open the memory card slot cover.
- Do not disconnect the power source or turn off the camcorder.
- Do not change the camcorder’s operating mode.
• You may not be able to play back with this camcorder movies recorded
on a memory card using another device.
NOTES
• Depending on the recording conditions, you may notice brief stops in
video or sound playback between scenes.
• During fast/slow playback, you may notice some anomalies (blocky
video artifacts, banding, etc.) in the playback picture.
• The speed indicated on the screen is approximate.
• Slow reverse playback will look the same as continuous frame reverse.
The Index Selection Screen: Selecting the Content to Play Back
From the index selection screen you can select the content you want to
play back (original scenes, playlist, or photos, for example). !
only: You can also select the memory from which you want to play
back your recordings.
In any index screen, touch [!].
During single photo view, touch the screen once to display the controls
then touch [&] to open the [Photos] index screen.
Operating modes:
!"#$

Video !53
Options
NOTES
• Fast/slow playback modes are not available for scenes converted to
standard definition. Scenes in the [SD Scenes] index screens can only
be played back at normal speed.
[Original] Original movies as you recorded them.
[Playlist] Scenes that were added to the playlist ($94) and may
have been rearranged to your liking.
[3D Flip View] See the following section ($54).
[Photos] Display the photo index screen.
[SD Scenes] (!Only when the memory card is selected)
Scenes that were converted to standard definition to upload
them to the Web ($141) or to create standard DVD discs
($135). Touch [SD Scenes] and then [For Web (MPEG-2)] or
[For DVD (SD-VIDEO)] as necessary.
[Video Snapshot] To display only video snapshot scenes. Touch
this control button first and then [Original] or [Playlist] as neces-
sary.
"!Touch the tab of the desired memory: built-in
memory or memory card.
#Touch a control button to select the content you want to
play back.
!"#$
54 !Video
3D Flip View
3D Flip View is a fun way to display your video recordings (original
scenes) in a 3D layout, organized by recording date.
In any index screen, touch [!] ([3D Flip View].
During single photo view, touch the screen once to display the controls
then touch [&] to open the [Photos] index screen.
"Drag your finger up and down to browse through the
scenes recorded in the displayed date.
#Drag your finger left to go to the next date with record-
ings.
$Touch the scene in the front to play it back.
%Currently selected recording date.
&Drag your finger right to go to the previous date with
recordings.
'Current scene / Total number of scenes recorded on the
selected date.
!"#$
Video !55
Narrowing Down the Scenes Shown in the Index Screen
From the [Original] index screen, you can narrow down the scenes
shown, leaving only scenes that were recorded on a specific date or
only those scenes in which people's faces were detected.
Showing Only Scenes that Contain People’s Faces
This will narrow down the scenes shown in the [Original] index screen,
leaving only scenes that were recorded using face detection ($66)
and in which people's faces were detected.
1 Open the [Original] index screen, if it is not displayed.
2 Narrow down the scenes shown.
•['Faces] appears instead of [All Scenes]. To show all scenes again,
touch [$'Faces] and then [All Scenes].
Showing Only Scenes Recorded on a Specific Date
This will narrow down the scenes shown in the [Original] or [Video
Snapshot] ![Original] index screen, leaving only scenes that were
recorded on the date you choose.
1 Open the [Original] or [Video Snapshot] ![Original] index screen.
Operating modes:
[!] ([Original]
[$All Scenes] (['Scenes with Faces]
[!] ([Original] or [!] ([Video Snapshot] (
[Original]
!"#$
56 !Video
2 Open the calendar screen.
• Dates that contain scenes (that is, movies were recorded on that
date) appear in black against a silver background. Dates without
recordings appear grayed out.
• Touch [%] or [&] to jump to the previous/next calendar month that
contains recordings.
3 Touch the desired date.
The selected date appears instead of [All Scenes]. To show all scenes
again, touch [$(the date displayed on the screen)] and then [All
Scenes].
NOTES
• You can change on what day to start the week for the calendar display
with the !([Calendar Start Day] setting.
Deleting Scenes
You can delete those scenes that you are not interested in keeping.
Deleting scenes allows you also to free up space on the memory. See
also Deleting Scenes from the Playlist ("95).
1 Open the index screen that contains the scenes you want to
delete.
• [Original] or [Video Snapshot] ![Original] index screen: To delete all
the scenes recorded on a specific date, narrow down the scenes
shown to scenes recorded on that date ("55).
2 Touch [%] to open the scene selection screen.
[$All Scenes] ([Scenes by Date]
Operating modes:
!"#$

Video !57
3 Touch on the individual scenes you want to delete.
• A checkmark &will appear on scenes selected. Touch a selected
scene again to remove the checkmark.
• To select all the scenes at once: Touch [Select All] instead of
touching individual scenes. (Remove in advance any checkmarks
from scenes you may have selected individually.)
4 Delete the scenes.
* Touch [Stop] to interrupt the operation while it is in progress. Some scenes may
be deleted nevertheless.
IMPORTANT
• Be careful when deleting original recordings. Once deleted, original
scenes cannot be recovered.
• Save copies of important scenes before deleting them ("128).
• Observe the following precautions while the ACCESS indicator is on or
flashing (while scenes are being deleted).
- Do not open the memory card slot cover.
- Do not disconnect the power source or turn off the camcorder.
- Do not change the camcorder’s operating mode.
NOTES
• Deleting a scene from the original index screen also deletes that scene
from the playlist.
• To delete all movies and make all recordable space available again you
may prefer to initialize the memory ("40).
[Edit] ([Delete] ([Yes]* ([OK]
!"#$
58 !Video
Advanced Functions
Shooting Video in !Manual Mode
When the mode switch is set to !(Manual mode), you can enjoy full
access to the menus and manually adjust the exposure, focus, white
balance and many more of the camcorder's settings to your prefer-
ence. Even in mode, though, the camcorder can help you with
the settings. For example, by using Special Scene recording programs
("60).
1 Set the mode switch to !.
2 Turn on the camcorder.
!By default, movies are
recorded in the built-in memory. You
can select the memory that will be
used to record movies ("38).
3 Press #to begin
recording.
Press #again to pause the
recording.
IMPORTANT
• Observe the following precautions while the ACCESS indicator is on or
flashing. Failing to do so may result in permanent data loss or damage
to the memory.
- Do not open the memory card slot cover.
- Do not disconnect the power source or turn off the camcorder.
- Do not change the camcorder’s operating mode.
• Be sure to save your recordings regularly ("126), especially after
making important recordings. Canon shall not be liable for any loss or
corruption of data.
Operating modes:
!"#$
Video !59
NOTES
• The zoom, Quick Start function, power saving modes, etc. operate the
same way in mode as in mode. For details, refer to Dual
Shot Mode ("42).
Selecting the Video Quality (Recording Mode)
The camcorder offers 5 recording modes. Changing the recording
mode will change the recording time available on the memory. Select
MXP or FXP mode for better movie quality; select LP mode for longer
recording times. The following table gives approximate recording
times.
NOTES
• Scenes recorded in MXP mode cannot be saved onto AVCHD discs
using the optional DW-100 DVD Burner. Use the supplied software
ImageMixer 3 SE to back up such scenes.
• The camcorder uses a variable bit rate (VBR) to encode video so the
actual recording times will vary depending on the content of the scenes.
• The camcorder retains the last setting used even if you set the cam-
corder to mode.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([MENU] (#([Recording Mode] (
Desired recording mode ([#]
!"#$
60 !Video
Special Scene Recording Programs
Recording in a very bright ski resort or capturing the full colors of a
sunset or a fireworks display becomes as easy as selecting a Special
Scene recording program.
Options (#Default value)
Approximate recording times #Default value
1Recorded in 1,920 x 1,080 resolution. Movies recorded using other recording
modes are recorded in 1,440 x 1,080 resolution.
2!At the time of purchase, the built-in memory contains about 75 MB
of music files.
Recording mode !
MXP1FXP1XP+ SP#LP
Memory "
4 GB
Memory card
20 min. 30 min. 40 min. 1 hr.
10 min.
1 hr.
30 min.
8 GB Memory card/
=Built-in
memory2
40 min. 1 hr. 1 hr.
25 min.
2 hr.
20 min.
3 hr.
16 GB
Memory card
1 hr.
25 min.
2 hr.
5 min.
2 hr.
50 min.
4 hr.
45 min.
6 hr.
5 min.
32 GB Memory card/
$Built-in
memory2
2 hr.
55 min.
4 hr.
10 min.
5 hr.
45 min.
9 hr.
35 min.
12 hr.
15 min.
Operating modes:
[$Portrait]#The camcorder uses a large aper-
ture, to achieve a sharp focus on the subject
while blurring the background.
[FUNC.] ([Rec. Programs] ([$Portrait] (
Desired recording program ([#]
!"#$

Video !61
[%Sports] To record sports scenes such as
tennis or golf.
[&Night Scene] To record nightscapes with
lower noise.
['Snow] To record in bright ski resorts without
the subject being underexposed.
[(Beach] To record on a sunny beach without
the subject being underexposed.
[)Sunset] To record sunsets in vibrant colors.
[*Low Light] To record in low-light situations.
[+Spotlight] To record spotlit scenes.
[,Fireworks] To record fireworks.
!"#$
62 !Video
NOTES
•[$Portrait]/[%Sports]/['Snow]/[(Beach]: The picture may not
appear smooth during playback.
•[$Portrait]: The blur effect of the background increases the more you
zoom in (<).
•['Snow]/[(Beach]: The subject may become overexposed on
cloudy days or in shaded places. Check the image on the screen.
•[*Low Light]:
- Moving subjects may leave a trailing afterimage.
- Picture quality may not be as good as in other modes.
- White points may appear on the screen.
- Autofocus may not work as well as in other modes. In such case,
adjust the focus manually.
•[,Fireworks]:
- To avoid camcorder blur (blur due to the camcorder moving) we
recommend using a tripod.
- In mode, slower shutter speeds are used so blur is more likely to
occur. Stabilize the camcorder, for example, by mounting it on a
tripod.
•["Underwater]/[#Surface]:
- Use these recording programs when making recordings while the
camcorder is in the optional WP-V2 Waterproof Case.
- The ["Underwater] recording program is for making recordings
underwater*. When using underwater lighting equipment or making
recordings while on land, we recommend using the [#Surface]
recording program.
- To switch the recording program between ["Underwater] and
[#Surface] while the camcorder is in the waterproof case, turn on
the camcorder while holding >pressed down.
["Underwater] To record underwater scenes in
natural colors.
[#Surface] To record after getting out of the
water, such as on a boat after diving.
!"#$
Video !63
-'will appear on the screen when the camcorder's temperature
becomes too high. If this happens, turn off the camcorder, take it out
of the waterproof case and keep it in a cool place until the
temperature goes down. If the camcorder becomes too hot, it will turn
off automatically.
- When making recordings underwater with the ["Underwater]
recording program, the image on the LCD screen will appear redder
than the actual subject. This will not affect the recording.
- When a commercially available wide-converter or other accessory is
attached to the waterproof case, the camcorder may focus on the
accessory. In such case, move the zoom lever toward <to focus on
the subject.
- See Specifications ("202) for additional notes about the
["Underwater] and [#Surface] recording programs.
* Underwater is a unique environment that is ever-changing, depending on factors
such as the weather and water conditions. In addition, water absorbs red light,
which causes objects to appear bluer and greener.
Cinema Mode: Giving a Cinematic Look to your Recordings
Give your recordings a cinematic look by using
the [-Cine Mode] recording program. Combine
this recording program with the 24 fps progressive
frame rate [&PF24] to get the enhanced effect
of the 24p Cinema Mode.
To set the [-Cine Mode] recording program
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([Rec. Programs] ([-Cine Mode] ([#]
!"#$
64 !Video
To change the frame rate
Advanced Image Stabilization
The image stabilizer reduces camcorder blur (blur due to the cam-
corder moving) so you can get nice, stable shots. Select the image sta-
bilization mode according to the shooting conditions.
In mode:
Options (#Default value in mode)
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([MENU] (#([Frame Rate] (
[&PF24] ([#]
Operating modes:
[$Dynamic]#( mode only) Compensates for a higher
degree of camcorder shake, such as when shooting while walk-
ing, and is more effective as the zoom approaches full wide
angle.
[%Standard]*, [%On] Compensates for a lower degree of
camcorder shake, such as when shooting while remaining sta-
tionary, and is suitable for shooting natural-looking scenes. Use
this setting when recording movies with the optional Wide-con-
verter or Tele-converter.
[&Off]* Use this setting when the camcorder is mounted on a
tripod.
* In mode, if you change the IS mode to one of these settings, you may
notice a slight change in the field of view while zooming in close to the tele-
photo end.
[FUNC.] ([Image Stabilizer] (Desired IS mode ([#]
!"#$

Video !65
NOTES
• If the degree of camcorder shake is too high, the image stabilizer may
not be able to fully compensate.
• Powered IS is not available in mode.
• For surveying and following shots, when you pan the camcorder from
side to side or tilt it up and down, we recommend setting the IS mode
to [$Dynamic] or [%Standard].
Pre-Recording
The camcorder will start recording 3 seconds before you press
#, ensuring you do not miss important shooting opportuni-
ties. This is especially useful when it is difficult to predict when to start
recording.
Powered IS
When shooting video, you can use Powered IS to make the image
stabilization even more powerful. Powered IS is most effective when
you are stationary and zooming in on far subjects using high zoom
ratios (the more you approach the telephoto end). Holding the LCD
panel with your left hand will add to the stability of the shot.
Press and hold $as long as
you want to activate Powered IS.
•'appears in yellow, while
Powered IS is activated.
• You can change the operation of the
$button (long press or
toggle on/off) with the "(
[POWERED IS Button] setting.
Operating modes:
!"#$
66 !Video
1 Activate the pre-recording function.
•(appears.
• Repeat, selecting ['Off], to turn off pre-recording.
2 Press #.
The scene recorded in the memory will start 3 seconds before
#was pressed.
NOTES
• While pre-recording is activated, the camcorder will not emit any notifi-
cation sounds.
• The camcorder will not record the full 3 seconds prior to pressing
#if the button was pressed within 3 seconds of having
turned on pre-recording or having finished the previous recording.
• Any of the following actions will deactivate the pre-recording function.
- Leaving the camcorder without any operation for 5 minutes.
- Pressing 4or ?.
- Changing the position of the mode switch.
- Changing the camcorder's operating mode.
- Setting the camcorder to standby mode.
- Changing any of the setup menu settings or changing the following
settings in the FUNC. panel: [Rec. Programs], [White Balance], [AGC
Limit], [Digital Effect] or [Image Stabilizer].
Face Detection
The camcorder automatically detects people’s faces and uses this
information to select the optimal settings for beautiful videos and pho-
tos.
[FUNC.] ([(Pre REC] ([!On] ([#]
Operating modes:
!"#$
Video !67
POINTS TO CHECK
• Select a recording program other than [&Night Scene],
[*Low Light], [,Fireworks] or ["Underwater].
By default, face detection is activated. If the function was turned off, per-
form the following procedure to turn it on.
To select the main subject
If there is more than one person in the picture, the camcorder will auto-
matically select one person it determines is the main subject. The main
subject is indicated by a white face detection frame and the camcorder
will optimize the settings for that person. Other faces will have gray
frames.
Touch a different face on the
touch screen to optimize the
camcorder's settings for that
person.
NOTES
• The camcorder may mistakenly detect the faces of non-human sub-
jects. In such case, turn face detection off.
• In certain cases, faces may not be detected correctly. Typical examples
include:
- Faces extremely small, large, dark or bright in relation to the overall
picture.
- Faces turned to the side, at a diagonal or partially hidden.
• Face detection cannot be used when the shutter speed used is slower
than 1/30 (1/24 if the frame rate is set to [&PF24]) or when the digital
zoom is activated at more than 60x zoom (dark blue area on the zoom
bar).
• When face detection is activated, the slowest shutter speed used by the
camcorder is 1/30 (1/24 if the frame rate is set to [&PF24]).
[FUNC.] ([MENU] ("/#(
[Face Detection & Tracking] ([!On '] ([#]
Main subject
!"#$
68 !Video
Touch & Track
When recording people, face detection ("66) will track the main sub-
ject and keep it always in focus. But also when recording other moving
subjects such as your pet, a moving vehicle or people not facing the
camera directly, you can use Touch & Track to keep your subject in
focus at all times.
1 Make sure face detection is activated ("66).
2 Point the camcorder at a moving subject and touch the subject on
the touch screen.
• A white double frame will appear around the subject and track it as it
moves.
• Touch [Cancel )] to remove the frame and cancel the tracking.
NOTES
• In certain cases, Touch & Track may not be able to track the subject.
Typical examples include:
- Subjects extremely small or large in relation to the overall picture.
- Subjects too similar to the background.
- Subjects lacking sufficient contrast.
- Fast moving subjects.
- When shooting indoors with insufficient lighting.
Video Snapshot
Record a series of short scenes or capture short scenes from a movie
you have previously recorded. Play your video snapshot scenes set to
your favorite music ("89) to create your own fun music video. You
will be surprised how by changing the background music, you can give
your scenes an entirely new feel.
Recording Video Snapshot Scenes
Operating modes:
Operating modes:
!"#$

Video !69
1 Press ?.
• A blue border appears on the
screen.
• Press ?again to return
to normal video recording mode.
2 Press #.
• By default, the camcorder records
for about 4 seconds (the blue frame
serves as a visual progress bar)
and then automatically returns to record pause mode. You can
change the length of video snapshot scenes with the #(
[Video Snapshot Length] setting.
• When the camcorder stops recording, the screen will momentarily
turn black as if a camera shutter had released.
• In index screens, video snapshot scenes are indicated with the (
mark.
NOTES
• Changing the camcorder's operating mode will deactivate the video
snapshot mode.
Digital Effects
* You can preview the digital effect on the screen.
• The icon of the selected digital effect appears in green. Effects are
applied immediately.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([.Digital Effects] (Desired fader/effect* (
[#]
!"#$
70 !Video
To fade in/out
Press #in record pause mode (@) to start recording with
a fade in. Press #while recording (8) to fade out and pause
the recording.
Options (#Default value)
NOTES
• When you apply a fader, not only the picture but also the sound will fade
in or out. When you apply an effect, the sound will be recorded normally.
• Faders cannot be used when recording video snapshot scenes or when
pre-recording is activated.
Manually Setting the Shutter Speed or Aperture
[/Programmed AE] is the default automatic exposure (AE) recording
program; using it, you can change functions like the white balance or
image effects. Select one of the other AE recording programs to control
the shutter speed or aperture.
[0Off]#Select this setting when you do not intend to use the dig-
ital effects.
[1Black & White]*Records movies and photos in black and
white.
[2Sepia]*Records movies and photos in sepia tones for an
“old” look.
[3Fade Trigger/Once], [4Fade Trigger/Always], [5Wipe/Once],
[6Wipe/Always] Select one of the faders to begin or end a
scene with a fade from or to a black screen. You can choose to
activate the fader only once, or every time you press
#to begin or end a scene.
* Only these digital effects are available in mode.
Operating modes:
!"#$
Video !71
Options (#Default value)
NOTES
•[7Shutter-Pri. AE]:
- On screen only the denominator is displayed – [7250] indicates a
shutter speed of 1/250 second, etc.
- In mode, when the frame rate is set to [&PF24], the shutter
speeds available will be the following: 1/6, 1/12, 1/24, 1/48, 1/60,
1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000 and 1/2000.
- When recording in dark surroundings, you can obtain a brighter
picture by using slow shutter speeds; however, image quality may not
be as good and autofocus may not work well.
- The image may flicker when recording with fast shutter speeds.
-Recording movies under fluorescent lights: If the screen starts to flicker,
select [7Shutter-Priority AE] and set the shutter speed to 1/100.
•[8Aperture-Priority AE]: The actual range of values available for selec-
tion will vary depending on the initial zoom position.
• When setting a numeric value (aperture or shutter speed), the number
displayed will flash if the aperture value or shutter speed is not appropri-
ate for the recording conditions. In such case, select a different value.
• During exposure lock, the aperture value/shutter speed cannot be
changed. Set the aperture value or shutter speed before manually
adjusting the exposure.
[/Programmed AE]#The camcorder automatically adjusts the
aperture and shutter speed to obtain the optimal exposure for
the subject.
[7Shutter-Pri. AE] Set the shutter speed value. The camcorder
automatically sets the appropriate aperture value.
[8Aperture-Pri. AE] Set the aperture value. The camcorder auto-
matically sets the appropriate shutter speed.
[FUNC.] ([Rec. Programs] ([7Shutter-Pri. AE] or
[8Aperture-Pri. AE] (Drag your finger left and right
along the dial to set the desired shutter speed (7) or
aperture value (8) ([#]
!"#$
72 !Video
Shutter Speed and Aperture Value Guidelines
!With slower shutter speed you can add a nice
motion blur and sense of movement.
With faster shutter speeds you can “freeze the
action” for powerful images of moving subjects."
!With small aperture values only the subject is in
focus and the background is softly blurred. Great
for portraits or to isolate a single object.
With large aperture values every part of
the image is clearly in focus. Good
for landscapes and architectural shots."
1/20001/10001/5001/2501/1001/601/301/151/81/41/2
.mode
mode
/
Low-light situations
Most ordinary conditions
Indoor sports
Fast moving subjects
or shooting from a
moving car or train
Outdoor sports on sunny days
F8.0
F6.7
F5.6
F4.8
F4.0
F3.4
F2.8
F2.4
F2.0
F1.8
More light
Shallow
.Lens aperture /
.Depth of Field /
Less light
Deep
!"#$

Video !73
Manual Exposure Adjustment
At times, backlit subjects may appear too dark (underexposed) or sub-
jects under very strong lights may appear too bright or glaring (overex-
posed). To correct this, you can adjust the exposure manually or use
the Touch AE function to automatically set the optimal exposure for the
subject you select. This is convenient when the brightness of the sub-
ject you want to shoot is noticeably brighter/darker than the general
brightness of the image.
POINTS TO CHECK
• Select a recording program other than [,Fireworks].
1 Open the exposure adjustment screen.
2 Touch a subject that appears inside the *frame.
• The Touch AE mark (*) will flash and the exposure will be adjusted
automatically so the area you touched will be correctly exposed. You
have the option to further adjust the exposure manually as
necessary.
• You can touch [!] instead to adjust the exposure manually without
activating the Touch AE function.
• The manual adjustment dial appears and the adjustment value is set
at ±0.
• Touch [!] again to return the camcorder to automatic exposure.
3 Drag your finger up and down along the dial to set the exposure
adjustment value.
The adjustment range may vary depending on the initial brightness of
the image, and some values may be grayed out.
4 Touch [#] to lock the exposure at the selected value.
During exposure lock, *and the selected exposure adjustment value
will appear on the screen.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([*Exposure]
!"#$
74 !Video
NOTES
• If the recording program is changed during exposure lock, the cam-
corder will return to automatic exposure.
• When shooting subjects with a strong light source behind them, the
camcorder automatically corrects for the backlight. You can turn off the
automatic backlight correction with the "/#([Auto Backlight
Correction] setting.
Automatic Gain Control (AGC) Limit
When recording in dark surroundings, the camcorder will automatically
increase the gain to try to get a brighter picture. However, using higher
gain values may result in more noticeable video noise. You can select
the AGC limit to curb the amount of noise by setting the maximum gain
value to be used. The smaller the AGC limit, the picture will be darker
but will have less the noise.
* Touch [9Automatic] to remove the limit for the automatic gain control.
• The AGC limit selected appears on the screen.
Manual Focus Adjustment
Autofocus may not work well on the following subjects. In such case,
focus manually.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([:AGC Limit] ([!Manual]* (
Drag your finger left and right along the dial to set the AGC
limit ([#]
• Reflective surfaces
• Subjects with low contrast
or without vertical lines
• Fast moving subjects
• Through wet windows
• Night scenes
Operating modes:
!"#$
Video !75
POINTS TO CHECK
• Adjust the zoom before you start the procedure.
1 Open the manual focus screen.
2 Touch a subject that appears inside the +frame.
• The Touch AF mark (*) will flash and the focusing distance will be
adjusted automatically. You have the option to further adjust the
focus manually as necessary.
• You can touch [)] instead to adjust the focus manually without
activating the Touch AF function.
• The manual focus controls and the current focusing distance appear.
• Touch [)] again to return the camcorder to autofocus.
3 Touch and hold [,] or [-] to adjust the focus.
• The center of the screen will be magnified to help you focus more
easily. You can also turn off this function with the "([Focus
Assistance] setting.
• The focusing distance displayed will change as you adjust the focus.
You can change the units used for the distance display with the
!([Distance Units] setting.
• If you wish to focus on faraway subjects such as mountains or
fireworks, touch and hold [,] until the focusing distance changes to
+.
4 Touch [#] to lock the focus at the selected distance.
During manual focus, [MF] will appear on the screen.
NOTES
• While the optional Wide-converter or Tele-converter is attached, the
focusing distance displayed will be incorrect.
[FUNC.] ([+Focus]
!"#$
76 !Video
White Balance
The white balance function helps you to accurately reproduce colors
under different lighting conditions so that white objects will always look
truly white in your recordings.
POINTS TO CHECK
• Select a recording program other than the Special Scene recording pro-
grams.
* When you select [;Custom WB], set the custom white balance with the follow-
ing procedure before touching [#].
To set the custom white balance
Point the camcorder at a white object, so it fills the whole screen,
and touch [Set WB].
When the adjustment is completed, ;stops flashing and disappears.
The camcorder will retain the custom white balance even if you turn it off.
Options (#Default value)
Operating modes:
[.Automatic]#The camcorder automatically sets the white bal-
ance for natural looking colors.
[<Daylight] To record outdoors on a bright day.
[=Shade] To record in shaded places.
[>Cloudy] To record on a cloudy day.
[?Fluorescent] To record under warm white, cool white or warm-
white-type (3-wavelength) fluorescent lighting.
[@Fluorescent H] To record under daylight or daylight-type
(3-wavelength) fluorescent lighting.
[ATungsten] To record under tungsten and tungsten-type
(3-wavelength) fluorescent lighting.
[;Custom WB] Use the custom white balance setting to make
white subjects appear white under colored lighting.
[FUNC.] ([BWhite Balance] (Desired option* ([#]
!"#$

Video !77
NOTES
• When you select the custom white balance:
- Set "([Digital Zoom] to ['Off].
- Reset the white balance when you change locations or the lighting or
other conditions change.
- Depending on the light source, ;may keep flashing. The result will
still be better than with [.Automatic].
• Custom white balance may provide better results in the following cases:
- Changing lighting conditions
- Close-ups
- Subjects in a single color (sky, sea or forest)
- Under mercury lamps and certain types of fluorescent lights
• Depending on the type of fluorescent light, optimal color balance may
not be obtained with [?Fluorescent] or [@Fluorescent H]. If the color
looks unnatural, select [.Automatic] or [;Custom WB].
Image Effects
You can use the image effects to change the color saturation and con-
trast to record movies and photos with special color effects.
POINTS TO CHECK
• Select a recording program other than the Special Scene recording pro-
grams.
* When you select [CCustom Effect], set the custom image effect with the follow-
ing procedure before touching [#].
To set the custom image effect
1 Touch [$], [%] or [&] to set the desired [Color Depth] level.
2 Touch [%] or [&] to select [Sharpness], [Contrast] and
[Brightness] and adjust their levels the same way.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([MENU] ("/#([Image Effects] (
Desired option* ([#]
!"#$
78 !Video
Options (#Default value)
Mini Video Light
You can turn on the mini video light to shoot video or take photos in
dark places.
POINTS TO CHECK
• Select a recording program other than ["Underwater] or
[#Surface].
•*appears on the screen.
• Repeat, selecting ['Off], to turn off the mini video light.
[DOff]#Records with no image enhancing effects.
[EVivid] Emphasizes the contrast and color saturation.
[FNeutral] Tones down the contrast and color saturation.
[GLow Sharpening] Records subjects with softened outlines.
[HSoft Skin Detail] Softens the details in the skin tone area for a
more complimentary appearance. To obtain the best effect, use
this setting when recording a person in close-up. Note that areas
similar to the skin color may lack in detail.
[CCustom Effect] Allows you to adjust the color depth, bright-
ness, contrast, and sharpness of the image.
[Color Depth]: (%) Shallower, ($) Richer.
[Sharpness]: (%) Softer, ($) Sharper.
[Contrast]: (%) Softer, ($) Sharper.
[Brightness]: (%) Darker, ($) Brighter.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([*Video Light] ([!On] ([#]
!"#$
Video !79
NOTES
• We recommend not using the mini video light while the optional Wide-
converter or Tele-converter is attached; its shadow can appear on the
screen.
Using an External Video Light
You can use the optional VL-5 Video Light or VFL-2 Video Flash Light
when you need a video light that is stronger than the built-in mini video
light.
Attach the optional video light to the mini advanced shoe.
• Refer to Using the Mini Advanced Shoe ("83).
• appears when you turn on the optional video light (ON or AUTO).
For details about using the optional video light, refer to the instruction
manual of the accessory used.
NOTES
• When an optional video light is attached to the mini advanced shoe, the
built-in mini video light will be disabled. To use the built-in mini video
light, turn off the optional video light.
Self Timer
•(appears.
• Repeat, selecting ['Off], to turn off the self timer.
mode: In record pause mode, press #.
The camcorder starts recording after a 10-second countdown*. The
countdown appears on the screen.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([MENU] (#([Self Timer] (
[!On (] ([#]
!"#$
80 !Video
mode: Press >, first halfway to activate the autofocus
and then fully.
The camcorder will record the photo after a 10-second countdown*. The
countdown appears on the screen.
* 2 seconds when using the wireless controller.
NOTES
• Once the countdown has begun, any of the following actions will cancel
the self timer.
- Pressing #(when recording movies) or >fully (when
recording photos).
- Turning off the camcorder.
- Changing the camcorder’s operating mode.
- Setting the camcorder to standby mode.
Audio Recording Level
You can adjust the audio recording level of the built-in or an external
microphone. You can display the audio level indicator while recording.
POINTS TO CHECK
• Select a recording program other than ["Underwater] or
[#Surface].
Manual Adjustment of the Audio Recording Level
1 Open the manual audio recording level adjustment screen.
• The audio level indicator and current audio recording level will appear
on the screen.
• Touch [9Automatic] to return the camcorder to automatic audio
recording levels.
Operating modes:
[FUNC.] ([/Mic. Level] ([!Manual]
!"#$