Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the operation and maintenance of your Canon Vixia HF R300 Full HD Flash Memory Camcorder. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the camcorder to ensure proper and safe operation. The Canon VIXIA HF R300 is designed to capture breathtaking Full HD video with impressive zooming capabilities and creative options. It features a sensitive Canon 3.28 Megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor and Canon’s exclusive DIGIC DV III Image Processor for superb imaging quality.
Setup
Unpacking and Initial Setup
Carefully unpack all components from the box. Verify that all items listed below are present.
Image: All components included in the Canon Vixia HF R300 package. This includes the camcorder unit, a battery pack, a compact power adapter, a stylus pen, a USB cable, an HDMI cable, and two CD-ROMs containing software.
What's in the Box:
- VIXIA HF R300 Camcorder
- Battery Pack BP-709
- Compact Power Adapter CA-110
- Stylus Pen
- USB Cable IFC-300PCU/S
- HDMI Cable HTC-100/S
- Bundled CD-ROMs:
- Pixela Transfer Utility Disc
- ImageBrowser EX / Image Mix / Music Data Disc
Battery Installation and Charging
- Insert the Battery Pack BP-709 into the battery slot on the camcorder until it clicks into place.
- Connect the Compact Power Adapter CA-110 to the camcorder's power input and then to a wall outlet. The charging indicator will illuminate.
- Charge the battery fully before first use. A full charge typically takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Inserting a Memory Card
The VIXIA HF R300 records Full HD Video directly to a removable SD memory card. It supports SD, SDHC, and super-high capacity SDXC cards.
- Locate the SD card slot cover on the camcorder.
- Open the cover and insert the SD card with the label facing the correct direction (refer to the diagram near the slot).
- Push the card in until it clicks. Close the cover securely.
Operating Instructions
Powering On/Off
- To power on, open the LCD panel.
- To power off, close the LCD panel.
Recording Video
Image: The Canon Vixia HF R300 camcorder with its side-mounted LCD screen fully open, showing a vibrant image of children enjoying a birthday party, demonstrating the camcorder in active use.
- Open the LCD panel to power on the camcorder.
- Point the camcorder at your subject.
- Press the RECORD/STOP button to begin recording. Press it again to stop.
Zoom Operation
The camcorder features a 51x Advanced Zoom. Use the zoom lever located on the top of the camcorder to adjust the focal length. Push the lever towards T for telephoto (zoom in) and towards W for wide-angle (zoom out).
Image Stabilization (IS)
The VIXIA HF R300 incorporates SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization and Intelligent IS to ensure steady and clear video, even at high zoom levels or when shooting handheld. Intelligent IS automatically selects the best stabilization method for the shooting situation:
- Dynamic IS: Corrects minor movement and shaking while walking.
- Macro IS: Provides steady close-up shots.
- Powered IS: Corrects shake during telephoto shots.
- Tripod Mode: Stops IS when the camcorder is stationary.
Using the 3.0-inch Flat Touch Panel LCD
Image: A detailed view of the Canon Vixia HF R300's 3.0-inch Flat Touch Panel LCD, showing the vibrant display of a recorded scene with children, highlighting the intuitive touch interface.
The large touch panel LCD provides intuitive control. You can:
- Touch Focus: Tap on the screen to shift focus to any subject.
- Touch Exposure: Control exposure for any area of the screen by touching it.
- Touch & Track: Place your finger on a moving subject, and the focus will follow it.
- Home Button: A dedicated Home button takes you to the main LCD screen for easy navigation of shooting modes and settings.
Recording Formats (AVCHD / MP4)
The VIXIA HF R300 supports dual codec recording, allowing you to choose between AVCHD and MP4 formats:
- AVCHD: Offers higher bit-rate and finer resolution for the highest quality video, ideal for HDTV viewing or Blu-ray archiving.
- MP4: Produces files ready for immediate sharing on social media (Facebook, YouTube) or viewing on mobile devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch) without conversion.
Recording Time Chart:
| Memory Capacity | MXP (24 Mbps) | FXP (17 Mbps) | XP+ (12 Mbps) | SP (7 Mbps) | LP (5 Mbps) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 GB | 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 40 minutes | 1 hour 10 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| 8 GB | 40 minutes | 1 hour | 1 hour 25 minutes | 2 hours 20 minutes | 3 hours |
| 16 GB | 1 hour 25 minutes | 2 hours 5 minutes | 2 hours 50 minutes | 4 hours 45 minutes | 6 hours 5 minutes |
| 32 GB | 2 hours 55 minutes | 4 hours 10 minutes | 5 hours 45 minutes | 9 hours 35 minutes | 12 hours 15 minutes |
| 64 GB | 5 hours 55 minutes | 8 hours 20 minutes | 11 hours 30 minutes | 19 hours 10 minutes | 24 hours 30 minutes |
Note: When recording has continued for 12 hours, it will automatically stop and then start automatically.
| Memory Capacity | 9 Mbps | 4 Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| 4 GB | 55 minutes | 2 hours 5 minutes |
| 8 GB | 1 hour 55 minutes | 4 hours 10 minutes |
| 16 GB | 3 hours 50 minutes | 8 hours 25 minutes |
| 32 GB | 7 hours 40 minutes | 16 hours 55 minutes |
| 64 GB | 15 hours 25 minutes | 33 hours 55 minutes |
Note: The maximum video recording time with the MP4 format is 30 minutes, and the maximum file size is 4GB. When either of these conditions is met, recording will stop automatically.
Smart AUTO and Auto Tele Macro
The camcorder features Smart AUTO, which recognizes 38 shooting situations and automatically selects optimal settings. Auto Tele Macro provides a high-end artistic effect with a well-focused subject against a blurred background when shooting nearby subjects in telephoto zoom mode.
Creative Features
- Cinema-Look Filters: Apply various artistic effects such as Cinema Standard, Vivid, Cool, Nostalgic, Sepia, Old Movies, Dramatic B&W, Dream, and Memory to your videos.
- Touch Decoration: Use the LCD screen and stylus to draw graphics, write text, or add clip art and animated effects to your recorded video.
- Story Creator: Helps you create compelling videos by providing a list of scenes to capture for different occasions, along with specific shooting tips for scene structure and composition.
Audio Features
The VIXIA HF R300 includes Microphone and Headphone Terminals for enhanced audio control:
- Microphone Terminal: Allows connection of an external microphone for professional-quality sound. Manual audio level control is available.
- Headphone Terminal: Ideal for monitoring audio during recording or for use with accessories like the optional Wireless Microphone WM-V1.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Camcorder
- Body: Wipe the camcorder body with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water and then wipe dry. Avoid using organic solvents like alcohol or benzene.
- Lens: Use a lens blower brush to remove dust. For smudges, use a soft lens cleaning cloth. Do not touch the lens surface with your fingers.
- LCD Screen: Gently wipe the screen with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid pressing hard on the screen.
Battery Care and Storage
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- For long-term storage, charge the battery to approximately 50% capacity.
- Avoid exposing batteries to extreme temperatures.
Memory Card Handling
- Always format new memory cards in the camcorder before first use.
- Do not remove the memory card while recording or playing back video.
- Store memory cards in their protective cases when not in use.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions
- Camcorder does not power on:
- Ensure the battery is properly inserted and charged.
- Verify the Compact Power Adapter is securely connected if operating on AC power.
- Check if the LCD panel is fully opened.
- Short battery life:
- The included battery (BP-709) provides approximately 25 minutes of recording time. For extended use, consider purchasing a higher capacity battery like the Canon BP-727.
- Reduce screen brightness or turn off unnecessary features to conserve power.
- Cannot record video:
- Check if a memory card is inserted and has sufficient free space.
- Ensure the memory card is not write-protected.
- Verify the camcorder is in recording mode.
- Video appears shaky:
- Ensure Image Stabilization (IS) is enabled.
- Hold the camcorder steady with both hands or use a tripod, especially at high zoom levels.
- Cannot transfer files to computer:
- Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the camcorder and the computer.
- Install the provided Pixela Transfer Utility Disc software on your computer.
- If using a Mac, you may need to drag and drop files directly from the camcorder when connected, or use compatible software.
- Ensure the camcorder is in playback mode when connecting to a computer.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 5976B002 |
| Product Dimensions | 4.5 x 2.1 x 2.2 inches |
| Item Weight | 9.9 ounces |
| Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS (3.28 Megapixel Full HD) |
| Video Capture Resolution | 1080p (1920 x 1080) |
| Zoom | 51x Advanced Zoom |
| Maximum Focal Length | 89.6 Millimeters |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4.5 |
| Flash Memory Type | SD, SDHC, SDXC |
| Video Capture Format | AVCHD, MP4 |
| Supported Audio Format | AAC, AC-3 |
| Screen Size | 3 Inches (Flat Touch Panel LCD) |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi (for wireless video transfer) |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion battery required (BP-709 included) |
| Manufacturer | Canon Video |
| Date First Available | January 9, 2012 |
Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product at the time of purchase. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region.
For technical support, service, or to find additional resources, please visit the official Canon support website or the Canon Store:
You can also find contact information for Canon customer service in your region on their official website.