Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1010 Camcorder Review

What’s in the Box?

Other Features (3.00)

Face Chaser - This is just an intense name for the VPC-HD1010's face detection feature, a tool commonly found amongst digital cameras and camcorders (the Sony HDR-TG1 has a similar feature). When activated, the camcorder will automatically detect faces within the frame, then attempt to focus and expose them correctly. Sanyo claims the VPC-HD1010 can detect up to 12 separate faces, but we couldn't get it to locate more than 4 at a time.

Voice Memo - In the camcorder's movie quality settings there is an option for recording audio only (called Voice Memo). This feature could be useful if you have to be extremely conservative with your storage space, but it's not all that practical for most users. In combination with an external microphone, Voice Memo mode could turn the Sanyo VPC-HD1010 into a digital audio recording device.

Self-Timer - Just like you'd find on a still camera, the VPC-HD1010 has a self-timer that can be set at 2 or 10 seconds. Setting the timer means there is a delay between the time you push the record or shutter button and the point when the camcorder starts shooting. The main use for a self-timer is so you can setup a shot, then jump into the frame at the last moment—making it possible for the entire group to be filmed or photographed. Unfortunately, because it's so difficult to get the HD1010 to stand up on its own, the self-timer isn't very useful unless you have a tripod handy.