Camcorder includes direct print features

Canon recently launched two new digital video (DV) camcorders that have the ability to print directly to a PictBridge-enabled printer. The Optura 300 and Optura Xi devices also take still digital images at 2 megapixels in resolution. For shooting video or still images, users of the cameras get the benefit of 10x or 11x optical zoom, and 200x or 220x of digital zoom, Canon said.

The Optura Xi ($1,499, available this month, pictured at left) features a 3.5-inch LCD viewscreen, and comes with an optical image stabilizer, Canon said. Other features include Aperture Priority, shutter priority (TV), Zebra Pattern for “creative exposure control,” manual focus ring, and an “advanced accessory shoe” that lets you attach an optional video light or directional microphone, the company added.

The Optura 300 ($1,299, available in September) includes a 2.5-inch LCD viewscreen, and has electronic image stabilization that lets a user correct the “shaky camera” phenomenon, even when shooting in handheld or telephoto mode, Canon said.

Both cameras include DV Messenger 2 software for Internet video chat or videoconferencing, as well as simultaneous VGA quality photo recording (at 640 by 480 resolution) while recording video, Canon added.

The printing feature lets users print pictures up to 8.5 by 11-inches on any Canon CP photo printer, Bubble Jet Direct or PictBridge-compatible printers.

Bonus photo:
Click here for a closer look at the Optura 300 (opens in new window).