Hi, I just bought my first Xl1 (also my first real Camera) and I don't know the first thing about it.


Is there anything I should know about first, or should I just mess around with it, till I figure it out?

Also, the zoom lever on the top handle dosen't zoom in, it only zooms out, is that because it's broken or is there somthing else I don't know about?

I would appreciate any input or advice.

hey william. welcome aboard.

it would probably help to experiment with the camera first, then come back with specific questions. here are some general rules while you play:

1) always power down the camera before taking the lens on/off.
2) when outdoors, keep your viewfinder pointed down when not in use to protect it from the sun (which will create burnouts on the lcd).

your zoom rocker should zoom you in/out and it sounds like a malfunction. you should send the camera in to canon service for fixing and general recalibrating, but this might cost you a pretty significant chunk of change. i remember when i sent my xl1 in for "recalibration" a few years back... they told me my drum head was bad, and it ended up costing me close to $800 to get everything in order. definitely worth it, but i don't know if you can justify the added expense.

good luck, and hope to hear your future experiences with the new camera...

Used camcorder? No manual? You can download it from the Canon website: www.canondv.com

Thanks for the tips,

Yes it is used, and thanks for the info on the manual