Panasonic HDC-TM40 Camcorder Review
- Sections:
- Still Features
- Other Features
Still Features
Still features certainly aren't the TM40's strong suit. The camcorder can only capture photos at a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080, which is the same size as the Full HD video the camcorder records (2.1 megapixels). There are two quality setting options, a self-timer, and a dedicated photo shutter button. There's no built-in flash, no special photo features, and you can't even capture photos during recording of video (you can grab a still image during video playback, though).
If you have a cell phone, it's more than likely that it will take better still images than the TM40. At least in terms of resolution and sharpness. Yes, the TM40 has the ability to zoom and adjust manual controls, but the limited resolution of its still images makes the feature almost worthless.
Other Features
Fader
You can add fades to the beginning or end of your clips and the fades can be to white or black.
Pre Record
With Pre Record turned on, the TM40 records a few seconds of footage before you even press the record button. That footage is only saved if you do end up pressing the record button, however, so what this mode does is save you those precious seconds when you're trying to capture something "spur of the moment." Even if you don't press the record button quickly enough, the camcorder picks up the slack (as long as you are pointing the TM40 in the right direction).
AGS
Stands for Auto Ground Standby, this feature will automatically stop recording if the TM40 is pointed directly at the ground for more than a few seconds. Essentially, the feature attempts to eliminate those awkward, unwanted recordings where you forgot to hit the stop record button (of course, you also will want to turn this feature off if you actually want to point the camcorder at the ground for recording).
Video Light
The HDC-TM40 has a tiny video light on the front of the camcorder. The light doesn't help that much when you try to record in complete darkness, but it will provide a slight boost when you record in low light. Just make sure the subject you're trying to illuminate isn't more than a few feet away from the camcorder when you're shooting.
