Digital Photography Tutorials » Canon

Canon Powershot G9 Digital Camera Review

lau — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:11:06 +0000

First of all, I would like too observe that you are reading abot Canon G9 because other performant point an shoot camers from Canon don’t offer RAW file format as a shooting option (Raw shooting is selected via the Recording Pixels sub-menu in the Function menu). Second, you might be intrerested in the flexibility of use that this camera offers: plenty of accesories (including external flash), full manual controls, a large range of settings (Face Detection AF and AE functions, optical stabilization, 6x optical zoom, Safety Zoom function and built-in ND filter) and in-camera adjustments. On the other side, Canon Powershot G9 is based on the previous G7 model: slightly higher resolution (12.1 megapixels vs 10 megapixels) and a larger, 3.0-inch LCD screen. Also, the G9′s viewfinder, although similar in appearance with the one of G7, is small and rather cramped. It has separate dial controls for shooting modes and ISO settings, which brings it near the look of a SLR.
A special function I like at this camera is the neutral density (ND) filter – this reduces the light intensity by three f-stops, allowing photographers to shoot with a wider lens aperture to achieve differential focusing in bright conditions. It can only be used with the P, Tv, Av and M shooting modes as well as for movie capture and is accessed via the Function button.
The camera can be operated one-handedly but, because of it’s small size, when it’s held comfortably and securely, some controls are covered by your fingers. Pictures taken with this canon model are sharp and colourful as much as it needs to be right and not exagerated. Some purple fringing can be seen when photos are enlarged. White balance performance is above average and the noise was visible in long exposures at ISO 400 and above but only became obvious at the ISO 1600 setting.
It will take up to 1.7 seconds to power up and shooting lag is 0.5 seconds with both JPEG and raw files. As a conclusion, this camera is robustly built, comprehensively feature-packed and small enough to slip into a jacket pocket, having allot in its favour.
Canon Powershot G9 Specifications

Optimize the various shooting options of your Canon powershot camera by checking out digital SLR camera reviews.

Canon PowerShot A560 Digital Camera Review

lau — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 15:50:52 +0000

The Canon A series gained in January 2007 a new member with a higher number of megapixels: 7 MP A560. An important improvement is the fact that this model is capable to take 500 shots before the 2xAA batteries rune out. The system now includes Face-detection autofocus, Higher light sensitivity, ISO 1600 (but this is not very useful) and Red-Eye correction in PlayBack Mode. Compared to A550, the LCD is 5 inch wider.
The multitude of functions and menu may be too much for someone who only wants a camera for creating a family album, but itâ€™s a perfect choice for someone who wants a high capability camera, compact enough to fit in a small bag, instead of an expensive heavy SLR.
But one thing here bothers me: the Aperture and Shutter Priority Modes are not present anymore and the Manual Mode only controls the exposure and white balance. The Panoramic Mode is also missing and this is even less understandable.
The long time between the shots taken with flash on is a problem on previous models that still hasnâ€™t been fixed. Another add to the camera usability is the composition grid and Iâ€™m mentioning this because it really is useful not only for beginners.
Canon PowerShot A560 Specifications

Canon PowerShot A560

Canon PowerShot A560

Tags: canon digital camera, canon powershot, canon powershot a560, canon a560, powershot a560, face detection, manual mode, red eye reduction

Canon PowerShot A570 IS Digital Camera Review

lau — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 20:00:31 +0000

This Canon A model stands out from the A series of digital cameras because of the image stabilization. No other camera from this series has it. Otherwise, manual controls, optical viewfinder, robust, solid design not fitting small pockets and rather resembling the buttons and controls of a SLR, good performance represented by low noise (except very high ISO), sharpness, vivid colors, slight warm white balance. This means that if donâ€™t have a steady hand but you want to have flexible camera adjustments at a low price, the Canon A570 IS is the right digicam for you. It runs on AA batteries and stores the pictures on SD card type, meaning it will be cheap and easy to recharge any time, anywhere.
Another important feature included in this camera is the Face Detection â€“ focuses on the personâ€™s faces. Red eye removal in now included as in-camera software (playback mode), which is more effective than a pre-flash light on compact cameras. Shot-to-shot time with flash on is slow: 4.82 seconds, but still better than on previous models of compact Canon (around 10 seconds).
Canon PowerShot A570 IS Specifications

Canon PowerShot A570 IS

Canon PowerShot A570 IS

Canon PowerShot A570 IS

Canon PowerShot A570 IS

Tags: canon digital camera, canon powershot, canon powershot a570 is, canon a570 is, powershot a570 is, face detection, manual mode, red eye reduction

Canon PowerShot A540 Digital Camera Review

lau — Tue, 15 May 2007 22:23:34 +0000

Canon Powershot A540 adds Shutter and Aperture Priority Modes to the old Canon A530 as well as 6MP instead of 5MP, and continues featuring the 4x optical zoom. Also, it enlarges the LCD screen and a 16:9 widescreen resolution option. Not only that Iâ€™m happy to find a compact digital camera with manual functions and controls, but Iâ€™m also happy to see it has a quite good optical viewfinder that can be used when the sign low battery appears; and the possibility to attach (with an adapter ring) filters and lenses (donâ€™t expect a large range â€“ itâ€™s still a compact camera). An underwater case is also available as optional accessory. It has a good hand grip and itâ€™s very steady on a tripod, but will only fit the bag, not the pocket.
Not only the flexibility of the options it provides, but also the vivid colors, low noise and good sharpening make this camera the best choice for low budget amatory photographers who can not yet afford a dSLR.
Canon PowerShot A540 Specifications

Canon PowerShot A540

Canon PowerShot A540

Canon PowerShot A540

Tags: 4x optical zoom, 6MP, canon, canon a540, canon digital camera, canon powershot, canon powershot a540, compact digital camera, digital camera, panoramic mode, powershot a540

Canon PowerShot A530 Digital Camera Review

lau — Tue, 15 May 2007 21:40:22 +0000

Unlike most og the compact digital cameras on the market (which usually feature 3x optical zoom), this Canon A530 comes with 4x optical zoom. The LCD is smaller than the newer cameras, it lacks the Shutter and Aperture Priority, but, it does have a Manual Mode and other manual controls (like white balance, exposure, metering). By working with AA rechargeable batteries and MMC Memory Card, using the A series models from Canon is cheap and easy to find replacements anywhere around. For this model, Canon also offers, optionally, the possibility to take underwater pictures. The images are sharper than most compacts (this is a good thing) and the colors are just splendid. The amount of features that most compacts donâ€™t have (however donâ€™t expect image stabilization), are enchased into a metal body not slim at all (and not stylish also, but the buttons and menu are intuitive and easy to use): it wonâ€™t fit the pockets.
Canon PowerShot A530 Specifications

Canon PowerShot A530

Canon PowerShot A530

Canon PowerShot A530

Tags: 4x optical zoom, 5MP, canon, canon a530, canon digital camera, canon powershot, canon powershot a530, compact digital camera, digital camera, panoramic mode, powershot a530

Canon PowerShot SD700 IS Digital Camera Review

lau — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:05:11 +0000

The Canon SD700 IS is a little bit larger than other Canon SD (Ixus) models. It is equipped with build-in flash and optical viewfinder (only 79% accuracy) at that top of the back; the buttons are located on the right side of the LCD. Like the other models from this series, it does not have shutter and aperture priority modes (but 16 other shooting modes). It features useful optical image stabilization system (with three modes, Continuous, Shoot Only, and Panning) and 4x optical zoom instead of 3x, as well as customizable “My Camera” settings. The SD700 IS reproduces the colors very well; images are sharp, free from noise (surprisingly low up to ISO 800) and artefacts, and it is also very responsive. This is everything you could want in a compact camera that makes not just decent photo, but excellent ones â€“ maybe therefore its price is not the most competitive. DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) and PictBridge compatibility are ensured.
Canon PowerShot SD700 IS Specifications
Canon PowerShot SD700 IS

Canon PowerShot SD700 IS

Canon PowerShot SD700 IS

Canon PowerShot SD700 IS

Canon PowerShot SD700 IS

Tags: canon digital camera, compact digital camera, digital camera, canon powershot sd700 is, canon sd700 is, 4x optical zoom, 6MP, optical image stabilization, image stabilization

Canon PowerShot SD 750 or Ixus 75 Digital Camera Review

lau — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 12:22:48 +0000

This Canon digital camera (slimmest optical zoom camera from Canon) offers superb response times and high-quality image rendering through Canonâ€™s DIGIC III image processor. Some interesting features include: Red-Eye Correction in playback, Face Detection AF/AE/FE and Noise Reduction Technology, ISO 1600 and Auto ISO Shift, 17 Shooting modes plus My Colors photo effects.
The new aesthetics (silver and silver with black accents, elegant, cutting-edge design and large LCD) from Canon first gives me a good impression, but I miss the viewfinder (it was present at Ixus 70 (SD 1000). Also it lacks the image stabilization of the SD800 IS.

A new Time Lapse Movie function allows a scene of two hours duration to be condensed to a fluid eight minute or four minute movie file, obtaining very stunning effects. A new Auto ISO Shift function prevents blur by giving users the option to boost the ISO setting â€“ and consequently shutter speed â€“ with a single button press, whenever the camera predicts camera shake. Photos tend to have purple fringing; white balance, exposure, and saturation look very good.
Canon PowerShot SD 750 (Ixus 75) Specifications
Canon PowerShot SD 750

Canon PowerShot SD 750

Canon PowerShot SD 750

Tags: canon digital camera, compact digital camera, 3x optical zoom, 7mp, Canon PowerShot SD 750, canon Ixus 75

Canon PowerShot SD800 IS or IXUS 850 IS Digital Camera Review

lau — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 21:13:33 +0000

Canon PowerShot SD800 IS (in Europe called IXUS 850 IS) is an ELPH line design, slim, stylish curved, with large controls but overall well fitting in hand and pocket. Optical Image Stabilizer Technology and DIGIC III Processor with Face Detection AF/AE are the most attractive features of this digital camera. Solid color reproduction, low noise (except high ISO), sharpness and little chromatic aberrations conclude with excellent image quality from a great point-and-shoot camera. But, again, to few manual controls for my taste.
Accessories: Canon SELPHY Compact Photo Printers and PIXMA Printers supporting PictBridge, Optional High Power Flash HF-DC1and Optional Waterproof Case (WP-DC9).
Canon PowerShot SD800 IS

Canon PowerShot SD800 IS
Functions:
â€¢ Shooting Modes: Auto, Manual, Scene, Digital Macro, Movie, Color Accent, Color Swap, Stitch Assist
â€¢ Scene Modes: Landscape, Portrait, Night Shot, Foliage, Fireworks, Beach, Underwater, Night Portrait, Indoor, ISO 3200, Kids & Pets
â€¢ Movie Mode: 3,072 x 2,304, 2,592 x 1,944, 2,048 x 1,536, 1,600 x 1,200, and 640 x 480 pixels at 30 or 15 fps, AVI Motion JPEG with sound
â€¢ Effects – My Colors: Vivid Color (high color saturation), Neutral Color (low color saturation), Sepia, Black-and-White, Positive Film, Lighter Skin Tone, Darker Skin Tone, Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, Vivid Red, Custom Color
â€¢ Flash Modes: Auto, Manual Flash on / off, Slow sync, Red-eye reduction
â€¢ White Balance: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, and Custom
â€¢ Metering: Evaluative, Center-Weighted, or Spot
Canon PowerShot SD800 IS

Canon PowerShot SD800 IS

Canon PowerShot SD800 IS
Technical Data:
â€¢ 2.5 inch LCD
â€¢ Real-image zoom optical viewfinder
â€¢ 7.1 megapixels
â€¢ 3.8 optical zoom + 4x digital zoom
â€¢ Focal Length: 28-105mm (35mm equiv)
â€¢ Aperture: f/2.8-to-f/5.8
â€¢ ISO Range: 80 ,100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 + ISO 3200 mode
â€¢ Flash Range: 50cm-4.0m (wide) / 2.0m (tele)
â€¢ Focus Range: Closest 3cm
â€¢ Exposure Compensation: +/- 2EV in 1/3 stop increments
â€¢ Continuos Shooting: 1.7fps until card is full
â€¢ Power-on: 1.1 sec
â€¢ Shot-to-Shot: 2 sec
â€¢ Shutter Speed: 15-1/1600 sec
â€¢ Self Timer: 2 or 10 sec, custom
â€¢ File Format: JPEG (EXIF 2.2)
â€¢ SD – Secure Digital memory + internal memory
â€¢ NB-5L Lithium-ion battery
Canon PowerShot SD800 IS

Canon PowerShot SD800 IS

Tags: Canon PowerShot SD800 IS, Canon PowerShot, canon digital camera, compact digital camera, digital camera, 7MP, 3x optical zoom, face detection, image stabilization, canon ixus, canon ixus 850 IS, canon ixus

Canon PowerShot SD900 or IXUS 900 Ti Digital Camera Review

lau — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 20:31:33 +0000

Titanium curved body, intuitive, large buttons and nice navigating menu. It performs very fast compared to other cameras, so you wonâ€™t miss anything, and the low light focusing is also a strong reason for me to like this camera. Distortion and chromatic aberrations are minimal in the images; the noise is disturbing at high ISO, however. Considering that white balance and colors are just about perfect, the image quality offered by Canon SD900 is excellent in the range of compact digital cameras. Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority or Manual mode are missing. Face Detection is a nice feature, based on identifying the triangle formed by eyes and nose. USB, TV output and Pictbridge connectivity are ensured, and Canon Digital Camera Solution Software v29.0 comes with it.
Canon PowerShot SD900

Canon PowerShot SD900
Functions:
â€¢ Shooting Modes: Auto, Macro, Movie, Scene, Panorama
â€¢ Scene Modes: Landscape, Portrait, Night Shot, Foliage, Fireworks, Beach, Underwater, Night Portrait, Indoor, ISO 3200, Kids & Pets
â€¢ Movie Mode: 1024 x 768 at 15 fps, 640 x 480 at 30/15 fps, 320 x 240 at 30/15 fps, 160 x 120 at 15 fps with sound
â€¢ Effects: My Colors menus for color adjustment, Color Accent and Color Swap features for special effects
â€¢ Flash Modes: Auto, On, Off, Slow, Manual (Red Eye On/Off)
â€¢ White Balance: Auto, Custom, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Daylight, Cloudy
â€¢ Metering: Evaluative, Center Weighted, Spot
Canon PowerShot SD900

Canon PowerShot SD900
Technical Data:
â€¢ 2.5 inch LCD
â€¢ Optical Viewfinder (80% accuracy)
â€¢ 10.0 megapixels
â€¢ 3x optical zoom + 4x digital zoom
â€¢ Focal Length: 37 mm – 111 mm
â€¢ Aperture: F2.8 – F4.9
â€¢ ISO Range: 80 ,100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 + ISO 3200 mode
â€¢ Flash Range: 5.1 m (16.7 ft) 1 m
â€¢ Focus Range: macro up to 5 cm
â€¢ Exposure Compensation: -2 to +2 EV in 1/3 EV steps
â€¢ Continuos Shooting: 2.1 fps, unlimited
â€¢ Power-on: 1.2 sec
â€¢ Shutter Speed: 15 – 1/2000 sec
â€¢ Self Timer: 2 or 10 sec
â€¢ Shot to Shot: 1.98 sec
â€¢ File Format: JPEG (EXIF 2.2)
â€¢ SD – Secure Digital memory
â€¢ NB-5L Lithium-ion battery (230 shots)
Canon PowerShot SD900

Canon PowerShot SD900

Tags: Canon PowerShot SD900, Canon PowerShot, canon digital camera, compact digital camera, digital camera, 10MP, 3x optical zoom, face detection, canon ixus

Canon PowerShot SD1000 (Ixus 70) Digital Camera Review

lau — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 22:01:14 +0000

The SD1000 replaces the old SD600, in stores since beginning late March 2007. It is a model more modern, minimalist aesthetic with cleanly rendered lines and squared â€“ off edges, made of stainless steel. Canon SD1000 features DIGIC III processor with Face Detection AF/AE/FE and Noise Reduction Technology. Face Detection Technology also enables Red-Eye Correction in playback. Users can quickly detect and remove red-eye in captured images directly in-camera, ensuring that people shots look natural and accurate.
New features: Image Stabilisation, a Real-image zoom optical Viewfinder, and, yes, it is compatible with Windows Vista.
The image quality is brilliant: accurate colors and plenty of sharpness as canon usually does; noise remains unimportant until ISO 200, but the images are useful even at ISO 800.
According to cnet.com: â€œThe PowerShot SD1000 took 0.98 second to start up and capture its first JPEG. Subsequent JPEGs took 1.48 seconds between shots with the flash turned off and 2.44 seconds with the flash enabled. Shutter lag measured 0.45 second in our high-contrast test, which mimics bright shooting conditions, and 0.9 second in our low-contrast test, which mimics dim shooting conditions.â€

Functions:
â€¢ Shooting Modes: Auto, Manual, Digital Macro, Portrait, Night Snapshot, Stitch Assist, Movie, Special Scene, Color Accent, Color Swap
â€¢ 17 Shooting modes: Kids & Pets, Indoor, Foliage, Snow, Beach, Fireworks, Aquarium, Underwater
â€¢ My Colors photo effects: My Colors Off, Vivid, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, Positive Film, Lighter Skin Tone, Darker Skin Tone, Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, Vivid Red, Custom Color
â€¢ Movie Mode: AVI (motion JPEG), 640×480 and 320×240 at 30fps, 160×120 at 15fps, with sound
â€¢ Metering: Evaluative (linked to Face Detection AF frame), Center-weighted average, Spot (Center)
â€¢ White Balance: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Custom
â€¢ Flash Modes: Auto, Manual Flash On / Off, Slow Sync, Red-eye reduction
Technical Data:
â€¢ 2.5 inch LCD
â€¢ 7 megapixels
â€¢ 3x optical zoom + 4x digital zoom
â€¢ Focal Length: 35 â€“ 105mm (35mm equivalent)
â€¢ Max. Aperture: F2.8 â€“ F4.9
â€¢ Macro Range: up to 3 cm close
â€¢ Exposure Compensation: +/-2EV in 1/3 stop increments
â€¢ ISO Range: 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600
â€¢ Flash Range: 50cm – 3.5m (wide) 50cm – 2.0m (tele)
â€¢ Shutter Speed: 15-1/1500 sec
â€¢ Self Timer: 2 / 10 sec, custom
â€¢ Continuos shooting: approx 1.7fps until memory card becomes full
â€¢ File Format: JPEG (Exif 2.2)
â€¢ SD/SDHC/MMC memory card
â€¢ Rechargeable Lithium-ion battery NB-4L

Tags: 7MP, 3x optical zoom, canon, canon digital camera, compact digital camera, compact camera, digital camera, canon powershot, canon ixus, canon powershot SD1000, canon ixus 70, image stabilization, face detection