I'm considering purchasing the Canon HF-S100. The specs of the camera and sample footage I've seen are pretty awesome, yet one major concern I have right now is the lack of a viewfinder, which I use constantly on my HV10 (usually on a tripod) at the sunny beach.

A few questions...

• Are LCD hoods effective in sunny conditions, or are they just an accessory gimmick?
• I notice a Canon-labeled hood for about $20. Anyone know if it just snaps on? Does it effectively block any sun compared to other hoods?
• I see several LCD hoods at B&H, some use sticky velcro, some use straps. Any suggestions on these?
• Does using an LCD screen (rather than a viewfinder) erode the battery super fast. (On my HV10, viewfinder only, I can get ~2 hours on a single battery, but that's not constant taping).
• Several HF-S100 reviews at canonusa.com all complain of short battery life. Is this likely due to requiring the use of the LCD for all shooting? (Seems like the lack of a tape drive motor and mechanics would compensate.)
• Are viewfinders likely gone for good on consumer Canon HD camcorders? Wait until after CES 2010?

Thanks

LCD hoods can help. Build one out of cardboard to see.

Disappearing viewfinders in cameras and camcorders is another item which some will try and convince people they don't need. If I had the time and energy I would start a "Save The Viewfinder" movement...

LCD's normally use more electrical power than viewfinders.

I have never seen a camera or camcorder which someone did not complain about battery life. I always want two batteries because you never know when that primary battery will die... Question should be, how fast can you change the battery? Usually a few seconds once you dig the spare one out of the case. Second question, what do the batteries cost? Are there other sizes available? Do third party batteries work?



Rich

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Never thought of this. I love DIY projects, so will try on my HV10.I'd join the movement.I currently have 3 batteries for my HV10, so yes, I agree on multiple batteries. It appears that on the HF-S100 you can change the battery without un-mounting from tripod, so that is a plus. Appears there are several batteries available for HF-S100. Approx. double capacity battery exists, but Canon brand is kind of expensive (Canon 1780mAh BP-819 for $91.00).