Face detection and recognition technology has long been present in still photography. Face detection is actually very simply explained - it allows the camcorder to more clearly capture facial images and facial features in camcorder photography. The technology was introduced a few years ago in still cameras and has progressed and improved, particularly in the last two years.
With this new technology in camcorders now available, an owner of these new models can expect facial images to be automatically adjusted, thereby clarifying facial features. Common photography problems like focus, image balance, and color balance will now be adjusted for camcorder users.
Two Companies Introduce First New Models
Panasonic and Sony are the first two companies taking advantage of this technological breakthrough. Sony's high end model HDR-SR10 and Panasonic's HDC-SD9 are two examples of new 2008 offerings with face detection built in. Interestingly, Panasonic was one of the last companies to roll out face detection technology in their cameras, choosing to wait until they felt their models were best in class.
What This Means To You
If you're a camcorder owner and purchase one of these new models, you can expect a great deal more clarity in facial detail. Excess light exposure in particular will become a non issue, as will balancing of color. While the technology is not quite up to par with that of still photography, camcorder owners should notice a substantial difference from older models.
Expect other companies to implement this technology later in 2008 and into 2009, including Sanyo, Olympus, and Canon. To give you an idea of price for these new models, the Panasonic HDC-SD9 retails at $799 while the Sony HDR-SR10 checks in at roughly the same price point.
