2.91MP, 1920 × 1080 CMOS Sensor. The Canon XA15’s 2.91MP, 1/2.84-inch CMOS sensor enables 1.0 lux minimum subject illumination, making it great for low-light shooting. It captures video at frame rates up to 59.94p, and includes native 24p recording. The MP4 (35 Mbps) and AVCHD Progressive (28 Mbps) file formats make it great for the high-quality capture of moving subjects, and you get slow- and fast-motion recording options.

Canon 20x Zoom Lens. The integrated 20x optical zoom lens boasts a 35mm-equivalent zoom range of 26.8 to 576mm. Its eight-blade circular iris produces pleasing bokeh, and you can choose from a range of zoom speeds.

DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor. This processor works in tandem with the CMOS sensor to capture color-accurate, low-noise images. It also allows you to simultaneously record footage to two separate SD cards in different bit rates and codecs.

Autofocus. The XA15’s autofocus system includes medium-speed, instant, and face-detection modes, all of which are quiet and precise.

Image Stabilization. The XA15 offers four image-stabilization modes. Dynamic mode is ideal for shooting while walking, as it extends the stabilizing range at the wide end of the focal length. Macro mode reduces angular and shift-type shake in wide-angle shots. Powered mode stabilizes the tele end’s low-frequency range, making it perfect for fixed-point shooting. Finally, Intelligent mode automatically determines which of the other three modes best suits your shooting situation.

OLED Touch Panel and Tilting EVF. The 3.0-inch, 1.23m-dot OLED lets you quickly access menus and change settings, while the 0.24-inch, 1.56m-dot electronic viewfinder tilts up to 45° for easy image review.

Additional Features. You can use the XA15’s dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording in AVCHD or MP4 format. You get an HD/SD-SDI output, an HDMI Mini output, four audio channels, and two XLR inputs. The detachable top handle is easy to install and includes a range of controls, a mic holder, an IR lamp, a tally light, and a cold-shoe mount. The camera is powered by Canon’s compact and lightweight BP-820 battery.

Q & A