It turns out that the Canon FS10 is definitely not “The One” after all. Yep, we fell out of love real quick! Last weekend I went out and shot some outdoor test footage and once I got home and processed the images, I realised immediately that the FS10 is not going to get it done. While Sterling is cute, light-weight and easy to handle, the video quality just isn’t what I had hoped it would be. I guess the quality is pretty good for a camera in its class, but it’s just not going to cut it for me. Needless to say, it is no longer one of my favourite things.

Initially, I though I would just use this camera to begin my learning process and after I got better, move on to something better. Well, after more research and deeper thought, I’ve decided to return the FS10 and step up to a model with a bit more power, the Canon VIXIA HV30. Sure, the HV30 is twice the price, but hey, after all the hard work and effort it took just to pull together the small clip below, I was quite disappointed. There is no way I can be fulfilled with that. I need to be rewarded with waaaaay more for all my pain.

I will be shipping the FS10 back on Monday. I haven’t decided where I will purchase the HV30, but I hope to make up my mind within the next week or so. Until then, it’ll just be me and Maxwell…my trusty, beloved Nikon D50.

Updated 9.6.08