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Canon PowerShot S1 IS Review
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Review
Date: Dec 4, 2004 |
Category:
Beginner
to Serious Amateur
Executive Summary
This
Canon PowerShot S1 IS Review is based on a production
model. All sample images are unretouched, except
where specified.
Holiday
Lights
58mm, Program AE, Evaluative, 6sec., F8.0 and
ISO 50
The Canon PowerShot S1 IS is our recommended
digital camera for someone starting in photography
and desiring a full featured and affordable ultra
zoom model.
Not only does the Canon S1 continue the PowerShot
S series tradition of high-quality and easy-to-use
digital cameras, it also incorporates some high-end
features usually found only in more expensive
prosumer models.
Image quality of the 3MP image sensor is very
good and allows up to 8x10 in. prints. Image detail
is excellent, noise is very low at ISO 50, there's
a bit of CA in certain high contrast scenes. Shutter
and autofocus responses are a mixed bag: fast
under bright conditions, and a noticeable shutter
and AF lag at full telephoto and in low-light
situations. In Continuous Shooting Mode, the EVF/LCD
freezes as each picture is taken, making it difficult
to follow action.
The 10x optical zoom is whisper quiet thanks
to an Ultrasonic Motor, and the addition of image
stabilization technology allows hand holding the
camera at long focal lengths without the use of
a tripod in many instances. Full exposure flexibility,
scene modes (Image Zone), FlexiZone AF, and a
Vari-Angle LCD monitor are features that add substantially
to the enjoyment of this digital camera. Even
though the Canon S1 does not have a dedicated
macro mode, the lens can focus as close as 10
cm (3.9 in.).
If you are used to the short clips that Movie
Mode provides on most Canon digital cameras, you'll
like the fact that the Canon S1 allows you to
record 640x480 30fps movie with sound (and zoom)
limited only by the size of the memory card.
The Canon S1 takes optional lenses and there
is even an underwater marine case for those who
fancy underwater photography.
If you are new to photography and fancy a long
zoom lens, the Canon S1 provides all the features
you need and then some more. All these features
provide a great learning tool for someone taking
a photography course.
See if you fit the Canon PowerShot S1 IS User
Profile below:
Canon PowerShot S1
User Profile |
| • |
Desire a quality 3+ MP
resolution digital camera capable of
producing prints of up to 8x10 in. |
| • |
Want full exposure flexibility. |
| • |
Just starting out into
digital photography. |
| • |
Have a desire to learn
about photography (i.e. not point-and-shoot). |
| • |
Want one of the best value
for money in the Beginner to Serious
Amateur category. |
| • |
Want a well-rounded digital
camera for general family use. |
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