HG20 and HF11 no viewfinder

[snowblinder]

First off let me just say that Im Jay and this is my first post :) I found this forum a few days ago and have been on it ever since. Im NOT here to post the "What do I get the HV or the HG/HF?" question.... Although I am losing sleep over it.

My question is.....

I have noticed that the HG20 and HF11 do not have viewfinders but the HG21 does. I really wasnt wanting to spend the extra $$$ just for harddrive space on the 21. I just dont think I can own a camera without a viewfinder. I shoot a Canon 40D for stills. I am just inlove with Canon! Going with a different brand is just not an option for me. How do you guys feel about your viewfinders? For me, I can just get a much more steady shot by putting the cam to my face on the fly. Is there a fix for this? I like the LCD when using the tripod but Im on the move alot. I would be all over the HV30 but Im just trying to get away from tapes. :hv20-smilie70:

Thanks....

Im very sorry if this is already posted somewhere or in the wrong topic.

[Kyleman]

Hello Jay! Welcome To The Forum! :)

I would say if you want the HG21 then go for it. Because if you end up wanting to use a view finder and the camera doesn't have one, then you'd just be losing money on having to buy a new camcorder for that reason. Personally, the viewfinders on Canons consumer models aren't that great (especially the HV20/30's) their unconformable and awkward. Then if you have a bigger battery it's useless because you can't get your face close to them. I have gotten adjusted to the LCD, and it isn't bad at all. As always make sure to search the forums and read the FAQ before posting a new question, and the Admins and Mods won't get ya. Have fun!


-Kyle

[snowblinder]

Thanks for the Welcome and fast reply Kyle! You make some very good points. I have been reading this forum for the last few days and couldnt find any posts on that topic.

[Sean Michael]

Interesting point about the viewfinders. I have a Sony HC3; recently the LCD display failed! Without a viewfinder the camera would be pretty much useless.

[sedate]

i suggest you go with sony latest one like sr12
i can easly say that lens quality of canon hg10 or hv20 is lower than sony SR1. not talking sr11 or sr12 .i am talking 2 years ago product. i used all hg10+hv20+SR1 if you don't believe in me find a record of sr1 .you will get schock on quality. i decided never to buy any canon products from now on. hv20 casette mecanism is china product. and failed 1 months latter. returned and bought hg10. i tried hg10 how is good in macro focus. it is terrible. .battary is china product, too
canon try to catch sr12 with hg21. ughhh

[Rich]

I am a viewfinder kind of guy... I ain't gonna say how many years I used a viewfinder, probably longer than some of you have been alive. I think it's a conspiracy. And some people are rationalizing how you really don't need a viewfinder... That's all. I have made my grouchy remark for the day and am off to enjoy life and have a good time the rest of the day....



Rich