The Canon XL2 is part of a new range of 'prosumer' digital video cameras capable of capturing an image at broadcast quality. Building on their previous releases, the XL1 and XL1s, the Canon XL2 offers numerous improvements, including the ability to record in 24P. Since video is traditionally captured at a frame rate of 30 frames per second, the ability to capture at 24P, means that the XL2 can create more film-like images.

Over the years, independent filmmakers have increasingly embraced digital technology as the future of low budget filmmaking. The Canon XL2 was designed with these filmmakers in mind. In addition to its ability to record in 24P, the Canon XL2 has 3 native 16:9 1/3-inch CCDs. As opposed to competing cameras, this means that the Canon XL2 is able to record in 16:9 wide-screen, without losing any resolution.

Canon is renown for its quality lenses. The XL2 continues where its predecessors left off as being one of the few cameras of its kind to offer interchangeable lenses. Instead of being limited to one, the Canon XL2 is capable of accepting many of Canon's range of lenses. This allows users greater creativity and a wider range of image capturing possibilities.

Sound is another important part of filmmaking. Often overlooked on smaller budget films, the Canon XL2 comes equipped with an excellent on-board microphone. More importantly, it offers two professional XLR jacks, allowing the use of professional mixers and microphones. Nevertheless, you don't need to be an aspiring filmmaker to enjoy the benefits of the Canon XL2--it can be used to film everything from weddings to family vacations to the next breakout hit at Sundance.