Sitting between the XF100/105 and the larger XF300/305, the XF200/205 is a serious video machine packing some serious features in a small body making it accessible and easy to use for video professionals, while enabling all to achieve stellar results. The XF200/205 series compliments Canon's successful professional hand held camcorder line for event videographers, corporate and documentary cameraman/camerawomen among many others. The camera numerous recording modes, wireless connectivity (XF205) and an enhanced operational design – providing users with greater freedom to shoot, view and distribute their footage during assignments.   Both models are powered by the Canon HD Video System and include significant enhancements. Each features a 26.8mm wide-angle Canon HD lens with an optical zoom that has been increased to 20x, working in harness with Canon’s latest HD CMOS PRO imaging sensor and a powerful DIGIC DV 4 processor. Combined with 50Mbps MPEG2 recording and 4:2:2 colour sampling, the result is video quality suitable for broadcast. High sensitivity and wide dynamic range work together to deliver excellent results, even in challenging lighting situations.   The Canon XF200 and XF205 have been designed to support the growing and diverse requirements of camera operators – enabling them to shoot for numerous platforms. A range of recording options provides the flexibility to simultaneously record high definition MXF files to CF cards and MP4 files to an SD card, in HD or lower resolutions – ideal for capturing footage intended for both broadcast and web channels. The design of each camera has been optimised to offer operators a tool that is intuitive to use. A new rotating grip provides additional control and stability, reducing strain and offering greater comfort during longer shoots. Three individual lens rings for focus, zoom and iris provide a configuration that is familiar to experienced camera operators, allowing a much quicker response in dynamic shooting environments.   Significant enhancements have also been made to ensure easier framing and monitoring of shots. An optimised viewfinder features a resolution of 1.23m-dots, enabling much greater accuracy when checking focus. An upgraded 8.8cm OLED display also offers higher contrast, more vivid colours and faster response times that make it far superior in operation, especially in bright conditions.   The XF205 and XF200 are also ideal tools for the less experienced operator. In addition to the control and precision expected by professional users, an intuitive button layout, fully automatic shooting mode and a variety of assist functions, including Face Detection, mean that even amateur users can capture great-looking footage.   Both models support four-channel linear PCM recording, with two XLR inputs allowing the option to use professional-grade microphones. Additionally, a built-in stereo microphone and a 3.5mm microphone jack provide users with a wealth of audio options.   Each camera also features WiFi and Ethernet LAN connectivity, allowing direct or wireless connection to a wide range of devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops. Wireless connectivity offers the freedom to control the camera from a distance, view footage remotely and conveniently transfer files via FTP without the need for any additional software. In addition, a new CameraAccess function allows lower-quality proxy files to be streamed to another device via WiFi, improving the speed in which content, such as news flashes, can be shared.   The XF205 expands connectivity options further with the inclusion of selectable 3G-SDi/HD-SDI, Timecode and Genlock terminals for easy integration on multi-camera shoots or with other broadcast equipment.   For those who want a closer look at the capabilities and features of these cameras, check out the tutorials below by Jem Schofield. Learn about features they offer, from the functionality of the camera body to tools for creating images.  
    • • The cameras' lenses and zoom range
      • • How the compact body and external buttons allows users to quickly access features
        • • The wireless or wired options to connect the camera to an external device and its accompanying app, browser and accessory GPS unit
          • • Differences between both cameras via terminals
            • • Wide DR gamma, waveform monitor, dynamic range and other tools that help establish quality imaging
Features Part 1 - Body & Functionality Features Part 2 - Connectivity Features Part 3 - Pro Recording & Customization Options Features Part 4 Exposure and Image Stay tuned for more of these informative tutorials soon... In the meantime, for all your Canon XF camcorders needs, and to order yours give our Canon specialists a call at 0208-977-1222.