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Still + Video Camcorders

Two cameras in one, digital camcorders can capture still photos alongside your HD video

This Article Features Photo Zoom

Sanyo Xacti HD1010

An HD camcorder capable of capturing excellent stills is the Sanyo Xacti HD1010 . Data from the CMOS sensor is captured on removable SDHC cards. The HD1010 features native still resolution of 4 megapixels (3264 x 2488) and 1080p video at 30 frames per second.

The Sony HDR-SR12 is a 1080p camcorder with a 5.6-megapixel CMOS sensor that delivers 10.2-megapixel stills (interpolated from 5 megapixels of data). The HDR-SR12 has an internal 120 GB hard drive and what it monikers Hybrid Recording technology, which allows the use of Memory Stick PRO Duo for capturing both video and stills, plus a dual record function that simultaneously captures video and 7-megapixel stills directly onto its memory card until full.

Sony HDR-12 Many camcorders like those from Sony offer both internal storage as well as the option to use removable flash memory cards. This is a nice feature when you're shooting both still and video, as you can record the video to the internal drive and save your still shots to the removable media.

Know When To Stay Still
A day may come when digital camcorders and still cameras have completely converged, but that time isn't now. When still image quality is less important than motion video—you just want quick grabs for e-mail, the web or smaller prints-then a do-it-all camcorder is a convenient option. But when still image quality is paramount, you absolutely want your D-SLR.

It's not just about resolution, although that's certainly part of the equation, considering the interpolation that takes place for camcorders to deliver images above a few megapixels. The physical size of the camcorder's sensor (and thereby its pixel size), the processing engine and the optical design of the lens are all combined with the primary goal of video capture in mind. Capturing stills, while not an afterthought, is a secondary function.

Your D-SLR is built to do one thing and one thing only: deliver the highest possible still image quality—no compromises. When you want the very best-quality still photos and HD video, too, bring both cameras with you.

Resources
Canon | (800) OK-CANON www.usa.canon.com Panasonic | (800) 211-PANA www.panasonic.com Samsung | (800) SAMSUNG www.samsung.com	Sanyo | (818) 998-7322 www.sanyodigital.com Sony | (877) 865-SONY www.sonystyle.com

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