Pentax K-x entry-level DSLR

The K-x comes in red, blue, white, or black colors, and the red looks fantastic. The cam has 12.4-megapixel resolution with sensor-shift shake reduction for both still shots and video. Yeah, the camera can shoot 720p HD video at 24 frames per second using any Pentax lens.

The camera feature HDR image capturing mode and a selection of creative filters. Bursts can be shot until your memory card is full at 4.7 frames per second. The cam also has a full array of automatic modes and uses an 11 point autofocus system. Power comes from plain old AA batteries. The camera body with an 18-55mm kit lens sells for $649.95. Add in a 50-200mm lens as well as the basic kit and the system costs $749.95. Replace that 50-200mm lens with a 50-300mm lens and the kit will set you back $849.95.

Buy the Pentax K-7 14.6 MP Digital SLR with Shake Reduction and 720p HD Video (Body Only)

Via  SlipperyBrick

Canon announces manual exposure video control for EOS 5D Mark II

Canon announced a firmware upgrade that will add full manual exposure control for video — including ISO, aperture, and shutter speed — to the Canon EOS 5D Mark II. The mid-range professional dSLR has been lauded for its excellent HD video capture capabilities (1920×1080,16:9 at 30 fps) since its release last September, but after everyone got over the initial excitement of getting near-professional-quality HD video from a dSLR, folks immediately started complaining about the lack of manual controls in video mode. The newsletter, in the form of a mock movie poster, indicates that there has been popular demand for manual controls, and that the new update will leave “no need to compromise with inferior workarounds.”

A press release from Canon Europe, provided a few more details, listing a June 2 date for download from Canon Europe’s support web site and stating that the manual controls when shooting video would include full aperture selection, ISO speeds from 100 to 6400 and H1, and shutter speed ranging from 1/30th to 1/4000th of a second.

Canon did not announce plans to add similar functionality to its other video-shooting SLR, the EOS Rebel T1i, but entry-level consumer users of the T1i may be less inclined to use manual controls for video.

Via ZDNet / Janice Chen

CameraTown says Canon EOS Rebel T1i HD Video Misses the Mark

Canon released today their first Rebel dSLR with HD video recording, putting an emphasis on its ability to capture HD video recording at resolutions up to 1080p. The EOS Rebel T1i was an important camera for Canon as they were forced to play catch up to Nikon's 2008 release of the D90. The D90 was the first dSLR to ship with HD video capabilities AND it came in under the $1000 mark. Canon has since released the ($2700) EOS 5D Mark II, a professional dSLR with HD video capabilities, but definitely needed a model with video capabilities under $1000. Like the Nikon D90, the limited usefulness of the Rebel T1i's video mode shouldn't hurt sales of the camera - especially for those that could care less about video to begin with. As a camera, the Rebel T1i is priced very aggressively at $799 (body) and $899 (with 18-55mm IS Lens) and takes many of the new features of the more expensive EOS 50D and EOS 5D Mark II and adds them to the Rebel series. The 15.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 processing, and superior HIGH ISO performance - that should match that of the more expensive EOS-50D - along with Peripheral Illumination Correction (for up to 40 lenses) and Canon's Auto Lighting Optimizer technology will provide consumers with an advanced photographic tool that is unrivaled at a price under $1000 - at least for now.

Via CameraTown

Shooting HD Video with DSLR Cameras

Business World Online says:

While the new DSLR cameras lack some crucial features of a camcorder, they have chips for large, high-resolution imaging and can shoot video that looks good on a large TV screen.

They also allow videographers to pick from a wide variety of lenses from fisheye to telephoto.

Some recent DSLR models that offer high-definition (HD) video include Nikon’s D90 and Canon’s 5D Mark II. Manufacturers such as Fujifilm are also offering compact cameras with HD video.

Ambitious amateur photographers have long been attracted to DSLR cameras, which — although bulkier than compact cameras — offer more flexibility with interchangeable lenses and higher degree of control over the technical aspects of taking a picture.

Check out the full article here.

New HD Camcorder blog

I have just started a new blog called HD-camcorders to keep my news organized. I know that HD Camcorders and DSLR cameras shouldn't be held on the same page, however they are related so I may use some cross-linking in the future.
I made copies of the HD camcorder-related news from this DSLR blog to the other one, and I will be placing a link block in the sidebar to let everyone know about the change.
Thanks for reading, check out my new HD Camcorders blog!

Canon HR10 DVD HD camcorder review

Videomaker has a review about the Canon HR10 camcorder.

The HR10 is part of Canon's second generation of AVCHD camcorders attempting to deliver the DVD format for consumers. Using the AVCHD codec, the HR10 takes the next step by giving consumers HD on a DVD. DVD-recordable formats made a big impact on consumers, because of the simplicity of random access and the ability to pop what you just recorded directly into your DVD player.

Following on the heels of Canon's HV20, which received high praise, the HR10 attempts to make its own mark on the consumer mind. The HR10's innovative design shines in many places, but its technical breakthrough may have bled too far over into the "user-friendly department" one expects from a consumer camcorder.

Read the full review at Videomaker.

Sony HDR-CX100 preview

The new High-Definition Sony HDR-CX100 is about the size of two king-sized Butterfinger bars stacked on top of each other. The Sony HDR-CX100 looks just as appetizing with its red, silver and black color schemes, and boasts full 1920 x 1080 High-Definition video recording.

As a sacrifice to the smallness gods, the Sony HDR-CX100 is saddled with a feeble serving of external controls. We'd imagine Manual Controls are just as scarce, given this pint-sized camcorder's intended audience, consisting of fashionable beginners and soccer moms.

Series highlights: 1920x1080 HD video recording, 4.0 MP still image capture, 8GB embedded memory, Face Detection technology, Smile Shutter™ technology, 2.7" touch panel, 10X Optical/120X Digital Zoom

1920x1080 high definition video recording:

1920 x1080 high definition resolution lets you record your memories in exceptional Sony® Full High Definition quality².

4 megapixel still image capture:

4 megapixel still image capture lets you take high resolution digital photos.

8GB embedded memory:

8GB¹ of embedded memory can record and store up to 3 hours of high definition video footage (HD LP mode), or up to almost 6 hours of standard definition footage (SD LP mode).

Ultra-compact, lightweight design:

The ultra-compact, lightweight HDR-CX100 is designed for maximum portability. Measuring just 2 1/4 x 2 3/8 x 4 1/2 inches and weighing just 11 ounces, the HDR-CX100 makes an ideal travel companion.

Face Detection technology for Video Footage and Digital Still Photos:

Made possible by the BIONZ™ image processing engine, Face Detection technology recognizes up to 8 faces anywhere in the frame and by selecting the most prominent, automatically controls focus, exposure, and color to help capture smiling faces brightly and clearly. Face Detection technology also helps make skin tones look natural without affecting other colors in the image. On AVCHD models, the camcorder allocates encoding bits on detected face areas prior to encoding other parts of the picture, making them sharper and clearer. In still picture mode, Face Detection technology sets the flash level to optimize picture clarity.

Smile Shutter™ technology for still and dual capture:

Smile Shutter™ technology lets the camcorder automatically take still photos when your subject smiles, even while shooting high definition video. You can also set the sensitivity and choose child, adult, or auto priority.

2.7” wide touch panel

Clear Photo LCD Plus™ display: 2.7” wide (16:9) touch panel Clear Photo LCD Plus™ display provides excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution (211K pixels). The display rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles, as well as provides sharp, detailed images for monitoring or playback. The convenient touch panel allows easy access to menus and additional functionality such as spot focus and spot metering.

1/5” Exmor™ CMOS Sensor with ClearVid™ array

A 1/5” Exmor™ CMOS Sensor with ClearVid™ array delivers bright, vivid, and exceptionally detailed 2.3 megapixel (effective) video footage, as well as 4 megapixel still images. Exmor™ technology captures images with high resolution and high sensitivity, while the advanced Sony® BIONZ™ image processor improves camera response time and screens out noise so the signal from each pixel is as pure as possible.

Power On by opening LCD display:

Power on your camcorder by simply opening the LCD display.

10X Optical / 120X Digital Zoom:

10X optical zoom helps to bring the action close up from far away. In addition, Digital Zoom Interpolation means that digital zooming (up to 120X) is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zoom.

Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar® lens with SteadyShot™ image stabilization:

The HDR-CX100 features a professional-quality Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar® lens designed specifically for compact camcorders. Precision ground optics help maintain the sharpness and contrast of larger lenses, and SteadyShot™ image stabilization helps reduce blur caused by camera shake.

Built-in zoom microphone:

The built-in zoom microphone focuses audio recording on your subjects with the camera's zoom lens, helping memories ring true with clear dialogue and crisp, discrete sounds.

Smooth Slow Record:

The Smooth Slow Record mode increases the record rate from 60 frames per second (fps) to 240 fps, allowing you to capture 3 seconds of fast motion and play the video back in 12 seconds. This is a great tool for analyzing a golf swing or a viewing a bird in flight. In addition, you record an audio track to narrate the video footage.

Available in silver, black, or red:

The HDR-CX100 is available in your choice of silver, black, or red.

Dual Record with 2.3MP still image capture:

Dual record capability lets you capture 2.3MP still images while shooting high definition video, so you can capture those special moments without having to switch recording modes.

x.v. Color™ technology for superior color:

x.v. Color™ technology enables the HDR-CX100 to capture nearly twice (1.8x) as many viewable colors as the standard RGB color range, resulting in more natural, life-like images. You can even experience this expanded color range on the big screen when you connect your camcorder to x.v. Color capable displays, including a wide range of Sony® BRAVIA® HDTVs.

HDMI™ connection output:

The High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is a compact audio/video connector interface for transmitting uncompressed digital streams. HDMI connects digital audio/video sources such as a compatible camcorder, Blu-ray Disc™ player, a personal computer, a video game console, or an AV receiver to a compatible digital audio device and/or video monitor such as a digital television (DTV). HDMI began to appear in 2006 on consumer HDTV, camcorders and high-end digital still cameras.

USB 2.0 interface:

A USB 2.0 interface provides an easy way to connect your camcorder to a compatible PC for fast transfer of video and still images for editing.

Includes Sony® PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software:

Sony Picture Motion Browser software offers a simple, intuitive way to transfer, sort, and view your video and still images on your compatible PC. In addition, multiple output options let you burn your memories to DVD, AVCHD, and Blu-ray Disc™ media (sold separately), as well as take advantage of one click upload to a number of popular video and photo sharing sites (compatible PC and internet connection required).

Check the preview here, and the product detail page at Sony website or buy other Sony HD camcorders.

Via Sony, infosyncworld.

Samsung HMX-R10 HD camcorder looks like a UFO

Samsung continues to expand its presence in camcorders with two new models, adding to the four new camcorders announced only two days ago. The HMX-R10 is the fifth high definition model for 2009, well-equipped for still photo shooting with a 1/2.33-inch 9-megapixel CMOS sensor. The SMX-F34, a standard definition camcorder, offers a special YouTube recording mode and software to aid in uploading videos.

An angled lens that allows for easier gripping and less stress on your wrist; and it not only shoots HD video, but also 9 megapixel stills, so you only need to shlep one kind-of camera when traveling instead of two.

It has 1/4" sensor, flash memory storage, and 9-megapixel photos, but what makes this thing interesting is its angled cut lens and smooth shape

Available: Summer 2009

Via Canyon News, gizmodo and camcorderinfo

Sony MHS-CM1 and MHS-PM1 Webbie HD cameras

Social networking is all the rage with Sony’s new stylish cameras that make it easy to capture and upload MP4 video and still photos directly to the Web. The Sony MHS-CM1 and MHS-PM1 Webbie HD cameras capture daily events in high definition video (1440x1080/30p) and 5 megapixel still photos. Embedded software makes it possible to quickly upload content online in a few simple clicks. Two portable designs in three stylish colors - eggplant, orange and silver - reflect your personal style while capturing every wish-you-were-here moment.

Via letsgomobile.

Samsung HMX-H106: HD camcorder flagship with 64GB SSD

Las Vegas (NV) - Samsung is showing off at the Consumer Electronics Show this week four new HD camcorders, including a flagship model offering a 64GB SSD for video storage. Dubbed HMX-H106, it will be available in April, with the other three showing up in March.

Buy Samsung HMX HD camcorder at Amazon.

The HMX-H106 is the first camcorder to feature an internal 64GB SSD. This makes the camcorder lighter weight and video storage less prone to failure as solid state drives lack moving parts like traditional hard drives. Two of the other new models – the HMX-H105 and HMX-H104, feature 32GB and 16GB SSDs, respectively.

Via TG Daily

Panasonic HDC-HS20, HDC-TM20 and HDC-SD20 Camcorders

The HDC-HS20, HDC-TM20 and HDC-SD20 are Panasonic's introductory HD camcorder models, recommended for new or intermediate users wanting an easy-to-use camcorder that still produces beautiful and vivid video worthy of sharing with friends and family. All three models feature a 16x optical zoom and a Leica Dicomar lens, but differ in recording media and thus vary slightly in overall size and weight.

The HDC-HS20 is a hybrid model capable of recording onto its internal 80 GB hard disk drive or an SDHC/SD Memory Card (optional accessory). The HDC-TM20 is a twin memory model that can record onto its built-in 16 GB memory or an SDHC/SD Memory Card (optional accessory), and comes in three body colors: black, silver and red. The HDC-SD20 uses an SDHC/SD Memory Card as a recording media and thus is extremely compact and lightweight. All three models also feature AF Tracking.

All Panasonic's 2009 High Definition camcorder models enable the transfer of recorded data to an Apple Macintosh computer so that recorded video clips can be edited in HD image quality using iMovie software.

Suggested retail prices for all camcorders are as follows:

• $799.95 for the HDC-HS20
• $649.95 for the HDC-TM20
• $599.95 for the HDC-SD20

All models come in black and will be available in April 2009.

Via ecoustics.

CES: Kodak ZX1 Pocket Video Camera on display

The Kodak ZX1 Pocket Video Camera will have a sealed speaker and microphone so a user can record 720p-quality video in rain or snow. (Don't think about totally immersing it in water, however.) It will be priced at $149.95.

The camera will be on display at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) this week in Las Vegas.

The dimensions of the ZX1 will be smaller than their first Pocket HD Camcorder, the Zi6, and it also claims to have improved performance in bright light and in low-light conditions. Along with the overall reduction in size, the screen has also been reduced from a 2.6-inch screen to a 2.2-inch screen; both screens have a 4:3 aspect ratio. The older and larger Zi6 will continue to be sold for $179.95.

The new ZX1 will write HD movies as .mov files using an H.264 codec. These files are compatible for playback in Windows and OS X, though they include video editing software compatible for Windows only. The software is stored on a small amount of internal memory in the camera; video files will be stored to a SDHC card which is expandable up to 32 Gbytes. Direct playback on an HDTV is also possible via the camera's HDMI out.

Via PCMag

Sony HDR-HC9 HDV camcorder reviewed by DVFormat

HD is taking over the video production world faster than many camera owners can keep up with. Now in its 5th generation, HDV cameras offer a broad range of choices from full-size broadcast cameras to small format palmcorders. The most recent addition to the lineup of HDV camcorders is the Sony HDR-HC9, available from Sony Electronics.

The HC9 records interlaced images in a 1440 x 1080 stream, recording to MiniDV tape, and records JPEG still images to a Memory Stick Duo card. These features are also found as functions of preceeding camcorders in the HDV line-up such as the HC3, HC5, and HC7 camcorders.

Where this camera is different is in the control setup and encoding/processing. The HC9 offers nearly full manual control of the camcorder. Exposure is set by slider or scene, rather than fstop, yet focus is manually controlled, and the metering system really makes it easy (and fast) to set up this camcorder.

Buy the Sony HDR-HC9 6MP MiniDV High Definition Handycam Camcorder 10x Optical Zoom here.

Read the full review here.

DVFormat says Web 2.0 awakens new camcorder segment

DMN Newswire--2009-1-14--The consumer camcorder market remains one of the most complex and dynamic CE categories to date despite witnessing fairly modest unit growth in recent years. Now, the emergence of a new breed of low-cost, back-to-basics pocket video camera is connecting with a fresh base of consumers, opening the market to a host of non-traditional camcorder brands.

According to the article, pocket video cameras lead the way and High Def camcorders are on the rise. Non-traditional camcorder brands such as Pure Digital/Flip, Aiptek and DXG are currently dominating the PVC segment and applying pressure to traditional A brands.

Moving forward, there is clearly an opportunity for the industry to further revitalise consumer interest in the camcorder segment, despite the current economic climate, and Futuresource will continue to closely monitor developments in this market.

Check Flip Mino HD, Kodak Zi6, Aiptek and DXG mini camcorder prices

Head over to DVFormat for the full article.

Buy Now or Wait for a New Camcorder? infoSync tells you

infoSync just posted an article lining out the main reasons to buy now and also the reasons to wait for your next HD camcorder purchase. Check this snippet from the article:

Our crystal ball foresees a radioactive force emanating from Canon this year in the form of the new Canon Vixia HF S10. A mutant 1/2.6" CMOS imaging sensor that gobbles up 9-megapixels lies within the belly of this hulking monster, promising intergalactic image quality.

Canon VIXIA HF100 Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom


What about Sony's high-definition overlord? Well, the Sony HDR-XR520V is equipped with a new back-illuminated 1/3.15" CMOS sensor that pledges a 50% improvement in low light sensitivity. The Sony HDR-XR520V also offers GPS, allowing shooters to track exactly where a particular video clip was recorded via Navteq maps.

Head over to infoSync CES 2009 articles area for more.

SAMSUNG Unveils Next Generation YouTube Compatible Camcorder

LAS VEGAS, N.V., January 8, 2009 -- Samsung Electronics America, Inc. today unveiled the SMX-F34, the company’s next generation YouTube™ compatible compact digital camcorder. Building on the success of the company’s well-received SC-MX20 camcorder, the SMX F34 offers users additional features and functionality, including built-in memory, digital still photo capability, and Samsung’s 42x Intelli-Zoom. Significantly more reliable than a standard digital zoom which negatively affects the quality of the image, Samsung’s new Intelli-Zoom allows users to go beyond the camcorder’s 34x optical zoom without sacrificing image quality.

The SMX-F34 features a memory card slot for SD/SDHC and also offers 16GB of internal flash memory. Samsung is the first digital imaging company to apply H.264 compression to standard definition video, which considerably extends record times. Thanks to H.264 compression, users can record up to eight hours of standard definition video directly to the camcorder’s internal flash memory without having to rely on a memory card. Samsung’s new image processor also reduces power consumption, which translates to longer battery life. On a single charge, consumers can record up to three hours of uninterrupted video – a beneficial feature for those who wish to shoot for extended periods of time.

Also check Samsung SC-HMX20C 8GB High Definition Camcorder

The SMX-F34 also features a dedicated Photo mode that allows consumers to use the camcorder as a digital camera, snapping 800x600 resolution images. The SMX-F34 also offers consumers added flexibility when it comes to zoom. Featuring Samsung’s intuitive 42x Intelli-Zoom, users can go beyond the camcorder’s 34x optical zoom without sacrificing image quality. When coupled with the camcorder’s high-quality, Schneider lens, and improved Advanced Image Stabilization, users can rest assured that they’ll be able to capture life the way they see it, with stunning color and clarity.

Read the full press release here.

Sony adds impressive features to HD camcorder line

New Models Combine Exmor R CMOS sensor, Sony G Lens and BIONZ Processor For Unparalleled Imaging Quality.

The HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V, HDR-XR200V and HDR-XR100 camcorder models preserve content in high resolution with 1920x1080 high-definition video recording and up to 12-megapixel still image capture.

The flagship model includes a 240GB hard drive that holds up to 101 hours of HD video (LP mode), embedded GPS, a back-illuminated Exmor R™ CMOS sensor, and improved optical image stabilization.

The HDR-XR520V and HDR-XR500V models are the first camcorders to use a back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor. Because the wire circuitry is placed behind the sensor’s photo detectors, the camcorders provide stunning low light performance with approximately twice the sensitivity compared to Sony’s existing front-illuminated CMOS sensor at F2.0. This results in brilliant image clarity and reduced grain.

These two camcorders feature a Sony G lens that incorporates advanced optics and low-dispersion aspheric glass elements for accurate color production and sharp, detailed images. A six-blade iris produces circular “bokeh” defocus effects for creative shooting possibilities.

A high-speed BIONZ imaging processor handles massive amounts of high resolution data from the Exmor R CMOS sensor for quick response and extraordinary picture quality.

The models also have an improved Optical Steady Shot™ feature with Active Mode, which allows a moveable lens element to shift with a greater range of motion during camera shake. This results in dramatically smoother video footage and photos.

The HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V, HDR-XR200V and HDR-XR100 will begin shipping in March for about $1500, $1300, $1000 and $750, respectively. The DCR-SR87, DCR-SR67 and DCR-SR47 will begin shipping in February for about $500, $450 and $400, respectively. The MS-HX16G 16GB Memory Stick® media card will ship in March for around $140.

Sony HDR-SR12 10.2MP 120GB High Definition Hard Drive Handycam Camcorder with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

Read Sony's press release for more marketing mumbojumbo.

Sony spotlights new HDR-CX100 HD camcorder with intelligent features

The HDR-CX100 Flash Memory Handycam® camcorder preserves your memories in high resolution by capturing 1920x1080 high-definition video and 4-megapixel photos. For around $600, the model also features intelligent Face Detection and Smile Shutter™ technology, 8GB of embedded memory (a portion of which is used for data management), and three color options (red, black and silver) -- all in a compact design.

“The new HDR-CX100 camcorder makes it possible for every family to own an HD camcorder so they can capture important moments in the highest quality possible” said Kelly Davis, director of camcorder marketing at Sony Electronics. “Packed with several intelligent features in an extremely portable body, we expect this model to attract many camcorder customers into the high-definition category.”

The HDR-CX100 camcorder features Smile Shutter technology to capture candid smiling photos while simultaneously recording video. To make sure your family stays in focus at all times, Face Detection technology recognizes and enhances the face by automatically correcting focus, exposure and color control.
Ready to capture important family moments straight out of the box, the camcorder includes 8GB of embedded memory which holds over three hours of high definition video recording (LP mode). You can also capture content onto Memory Stick® PRO Duo media (sold separately) for additional recording time. In addition to a high-quality Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar® 10X optical zoom lens, the camcorder is packed with such incredible features as a built-in zoom microphone for recording clear dialogue and Steady Shot® image stabilization that reduces shake for smooth video and clear photos.

Sony HDR-CX12 High Definition Memory Stick PRO Duo Handycam Camcorder With 12x Optical Zoom

The camcorder instantly powers on when you open the 2.7-inch (measured diagonally) Clear Photo LCD Plus™ screen to make sure you capture the moment before it passes. Sony is also introducing three standard-definition flash memory models offering up to 16GB embedded memory (a portion of which is used for data management), 60X optical zoom and 2.7-inch (measured diagonally) wide LCD touch panel screens.

Taking advantage of the compact nature of flash memory, the new camcorders are highly portable with personalized color variations in red, blue and silver. The 16GB DCR-SX60, 8GB DCR-SX41and 4GB DCR-SX40 camcorders will cost about $370, $300 and $270, respectively. The models will work with Sony’s new DVDirect® Express writer (model VRD-P1), which offers a quick and easy way to transfer home videos directly to DVD without a computer. The VRD-P1 DVD Express writer will be available this month for about $150.

Sony HDR-SR11 10.2-MP 60GB High Definition Hard Drive Handycam Camcorder with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

The new Sony camcorders and accessories will be available in March.

From Sony press release

Canon Vixia HG20 declared best HD camcorder by cnet

The good: Excellent video quality; 60GB hard drive; attractive, understated design.

The bad: Wind filter not as dependable as previous Canon models; manual focus pretty useless.

The bottom line: Like its cousin, the flash-based HF11, Canon's Vixia HG20 delivers excellent HD video quality and performance albeit in a slightly larger, heavier package. However, you do get more storage space and a lower price.

Canon Vixia HG20 AVCHD HD Camcorder with 60GB storage

See the top list of HD camcorders based on review ratings here.

ZDNet also has a Vixia HG20 review with an excellent rating of 82%, and camcorderinfo has an in-depth review right here

Hitachi DZBD10HA Blu-ray HD camcorder - the ony Hitachi BD product

Only one company, Hitachi, makes a Blu-ray camcorder. Ironically, Hitachi doesn't make any other Blu-ray products.

But Hitachi doesn't think having Blu-ray on a camcorder is enough. So on its DZBD10HA model ($1,099), it supplements the Blu-ray disc recorder with a 30GB hard-disk drive and — AND — a high-capacity SD slot. The HDD also records video using the 1,920 x 1,080 Blu-ray format, but the SD card slot records high-def video using AVCHD.

Via DVICE