Archive for March 2010
Canon PowerShot SD780IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch LCD
Buy Canon PowerShot SD780IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch LCD (Black)
Customer Rating: ![]()
List Price: $229.00 ; you save 22%
Price: See our price right now
Available in a variety of choice
Silver, Deep red, Gold
It is the smallest digital SLR Canon has ever made, but the effect can not be greater. The PowerShot SD780 IS Digital ELPH captivates the senses with bold saturated colors and bold design that the original intensity of the most innovative camera technology Canon competitions. Even as a photo-taking conditions seems quite unforgiving, you have Canon on your side. So the photos you used to miss the images that you will get the parts, and the movies that you will never be taken before HD unforgettable.
PowerShot SD780 IS Highlights
12.1-megapixel resolution, 3x optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer
Canon’s commitment to innovation defines the PowerShot SD780 excitement of IS Digital ELPH. 12.1-megapixel resolution is more than one number, it’s your cutting-edge link to the exceptional clarity and quality that you always wanted in your images. Think big and bold, oversized prints are sharp as a breeze. Get the picture? It’s absolutely brilliant.
The PowerShot SD780 IS Digital SLR has a 3x optical zoom lens that makes it easy to inspiring, emotional close-ups make your images lasting memories. This magnificent lens gives you the ability to distant subjects with razor-sharp precision and stunning lifelike color shots. So you can brilliantly capture a closer shot of a landscape or a child a big smile.
The PowerShot SD780 IS Digital SLR is equipped with Canon’s acclaimed Optical Image Stabilizer Technology that automatically detects and corrects camera shake – one of the leading causes of fuzzy or blurry photos. Even when zoomed in, you can see the steady, crisp, brilliant images you’ll be proud to shoot and share. And Canon’s Optical Image Stabilizer Technology is so convenient to use. It works perfectly with or without flash.
HD movies plus HDMI output power 
The PowerShot SD780 IS Digital ELPH lets you record video in beautiful High Definition (1280 x 720 pixels). The camera also makes it easy to HD movies (and still photographs) to enjoy on your HDTV with a mini-HDMI connector for direct connection to a high definition display. You will enjoy the HD experience with no degradation of picture or sound signal, plus the ability to display up to 130 photos at once.
Smart Car intelligently selects the correct settings
Canon PowerShot SD780 IS Set Digital ELPH for Smart Car and you’re ready for maximum enjoyment of your pictures every time. It is a relaxing and satisfying way to shoot because you can concentrate on your subject to know that the camera is below the technical details. Canon’s advanced technology analyzes your situation and intelligent shooting conditions. Then it automatically selects an appropriate set of 18 specially-defined settings. So whether you’re photographing flowers, an enchanting sunset or your friends at the park, you can rest assured that you get dramatic, memorable images.
Shooting Modes
Advanced settings for the best possible photos under certain conditions. With 20 shooting modes, you’re ready for whatever shot comes your way.
2.5-inch PureColor LCD II screen and a wide viewing angle
The PowerShot SD780 IS Digital ELPH gives you large 2.5-inch LCD screen for excellent control in developing your shots. Canon’s PureColor LCD II offers spectacular color, resolution and contrast even when in a corner. The screen is very durable and easy to see in a light with a scratch resistant, anti-reflective coating. It also features Night Display for easy viewing in low light – a perfect feature for gathering friends and family around your pictures.
A world of benefits with Canon’s technology 
The DIGIC 4 image processor, Face Detection Technology has changed the faces of moving subjects and let the shooter seamlessly within the frame, Face Detection Self-Timer tracks.
DIGIC 4 image processor
most advanced image processor DIGIC 4 Canon, Face Detection technology has evolved provides that each face is in every photo look its best. Technology finds and tracks the faces of moving subjects until you’re ready to shoot, then it provides a perfect focus. Additionally, exposure, flash and white balance are offset so that faces show natural skin tones and backgrounds are properly exposed.
ISAPS Technology is an entirely original scene-recognition technology developed for digital cameras from Canon. Using an internal database of thousands of different photos, iSAPS works with the advanced DIGIC 4 image processor to focus speed and accuracy improve, exposure and white balance.
A Face Detection Self-Timer automatically increase the number of detects faces and the necessary adjustments. For example, to include the photographer’s face in a group, there is no need to rush in. Just the camera on a tripod or a tripod, specify Face Self-timer, and the camera will wait for the photographer’s face to get on camera before the shot. Motion Detection tracks moving subjects in a much greater range, and Servo AF retains focus on a moving subject after the shutter is pressed – so you wait for the perfect shot without refocusing.
Intelligent Contrast Correction
DIGIC 4 also makes it possible for the i-Contrast (Intelligent Contrast Correction) system, the compensation pixel units controls on the dark areas brighter when bright areas unchanged for better images where the main subject matter is dark, and much more natural transition . The PowerShot SD780 IS Digital ELPH can even use i-Contrast in playback mode, images shot without the setting activated to apply.
Red-eye Correction provides three options for removing red-eye from subjects in flash pictures. 
1) Red-eye Correction during shooting actually identifies and corrects red eyes in human subjects as pictures are taken.
2) The PowerShot SD780 IS Digital ELPH can be set to automatically detect and correct red-eye during image playback.
3) You can manually search for any red eyes in a scene during image playback on the LCD screen, and command the camera to remove them.
Life does not give you second chances to capture special moments. That’s why the PowerShot SD780 IS Digital SLR features an ISO 1600 setting that reduces the effects of camera shake and sharpens subjects in low light situations, giving you greater shooting flexibility. ISO can be expanded to ISO 3200 when you select 3200 Special Scene mode.
What’s in the Box
- PowerShot SD780 IS Digital SLR Body
- Lithium-ion battery (NB-4L)
- Battery charger (CB-2LV)
- Wrist strap (WS-DC7)
- Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM
- USB interface cable (IFC-400PCU)
- AV cable (AVC-DC400)
Product Features
- 12.1-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality poster-size prints
- 3x optical zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilizer
- HD movie shooting capability plus HDMI output
- 2.5-inch widescreen PureColor LCD II screen; Face Detection
- Compatible with SD/SDHC, MMC/MMC Plus/HC MMC Plus (not included)
Customer Review
A True Pocket Camera with HD Video, March 16, 2009
By U. Wilkins (San Jose, CA USA)
I just purchased this Canon on a whim, earlier today at Best Buy. I have been tinkering with it for the majority of the evening. My previous SD300 is still working like a champ, however I have been considering a video camera for some time…after some peering at the video camera counter I wandered over to the point and shoot table… what initially drew me in to the SD780IS was its appearance on the display stand. The sleek matte-black body is very eye-pleasing…then I looked at the specs. and realized that it shoots video in HD! (1280×720) Then all the other attributes made me realize that it was time to update my “everywhere, anytime” camera.
I proceeded to check out some of the other Canon SD cameras. The SD960 became the other candidate…it has a little more glass(4x)zoom, over the SD780′s (3x)zoom. The SD960 has an appealing f2.8 apeture over the SD780′s f3.2. The SD960′s screen is more tailored for the HD video capture as it has a 16:9 ratio LCD panel. (Kinda nice for instant viewing ON THE CAMERA)
After some thought I went with the SD780 for these reasons:
1. The HD video capability is awesome and comparible with the SD960. It has a HDMI jack. The traditional 4:3 screen does not bother me, because the video is ultimately going to be viewed on a HD TV.(There will be an upper and lower bar on 16:9 playback through the SD780′s LCD).
2.The weaker 3x zoom is not a big deal as this camera is for general shooting(out w/ freinds, bars, random afternoon at the beach, mountain biking, etc.)and with this camera EASLIY fitting in my jeans pocket or camelbak, the portability is what gives me the opportunity to document those moments, that would otherwise be missed. The SD960 is a little bulkier(but still small). I do also shoot with a Canon 40D, accompanied with L optics, but the weight and bulkiness do not lend to certain shooting circumstances. (as mentined above)
3. The user interface on the SD780IS is like most (if not all?) preceeding SD cameras. While there is not much control in the way of shooting settings, feature buttons like flash override, AE lock, AF lock, and exposure compensation are present on the camera body. The SD960IS has two buttons and a jog wheel, which lend to swims in the menu. I’m sure the new interface on the 960 is intuitive, but I liked the 780 due to its similarity to my old SD300.
I am very happy with the results produced thus far with the SD780IS. The HD video is excellant, however it should be known that once recording you can only zoom digitally. Low light cabilities and sound in video mode are excellent. The stills I have taken look great. Also, to the budget-minded who are upgrading from older digital point-and-shoots, a class 4 minimum 4GB or 8GB SDHC card would be well suited due to the demanding memory of the 12.1 million pixels, and HD video. Also, most old card readers will not process the the SDHC cards so you may have to purchase a new card reader as well.
I have to mention it again…the small size of the Canon SD780IS is mind-blowing…and the functionality actually mirrors its beauty.
———————————————————————————
Revolutionary! Beautiful and Powerful, March 24, 2009
By W. Chan (New York City)
OVERVIEW
Canon SD780IS is the perfect travel/everyday camera. It weighs a little over 4 ounces. The size of the camera is astonishing. It is smaller than my iPhone 3G and my wallet. I love the new 720p video recording HD feature on the 2009 Canon P+S line. The image stabilization for video/image stills is a winner. The clips are sharper and clearer than the clips from the Creative Vado HD and the Flip Video MinoHD.
PLAYBACK ON COMPUTERS
For video playback without choppiness on the computer, you need to have at least a Core 2 Duo 1.66 GHz or higher processor on Windows (Vista/XP SP2/XP SP 3) or Core Duo 1.66 GHz or higher processor on Mac OS X (v10.4-v10.5)
MEMORY CARD
You should get at least 8GB Sandisk Extreme III SDHC (Class 6 or higher) memory card for the camera. 4000×3000 resolution images can quickly fill up your 2/4GB SD memory card.
CONCLUSION
+ Quick Continuous Snapshots
+ 720p HD Video Recording with Image Stabilization
+ Lightning Quick Startup
+ Ultra-Compact Point & Shoot Camera (Thin + Light Combo)
+ Beautiful Design
+ Great for Beginners (Very Easy To Use)
+ Bright LCD Screen
+ DIGIC IV Technology
+ Blink Detection
+ Can Edit Video Clips on the go
+ Scene Detection Mode works Flawlessly
- No Optical Zoom in Video Mode while Recording (You can Digitally Zoom)
- Monotone Sound in Video Mode
- Only 3x Optical Zoom for image stills
- View Finder is Useless
- Little Noisy/Grainy when Using Higher Than ISO400 but Acceptable
SCORE/VERDICT
09/10: Recommended
———————————————————————————
Amazing Things Sometimes Come In Tiny Packages, May 2, 2009
By George D. Gates (Dallas, TX USA)
After researching ultra-compact cameras for 2 weeks, I had narrowed down my choices to this camera, the Canon SD880 IS and a couple of models from other manufacturers (though I knew in the end I’d choose a Canon). As with most electronic purchases I make, it was an agonizing process. Every camera had a feature that I wanted, yet none of them had everything that I wanted. I would have liked a bit more zoom, and other cameras have wider lenses. In the end, the three features that won me over were the amazingly small size, the ability to capture HD video at a resolution of 720p, and the HDMI out.
As for the performance, I couldn’t be happier. Many of the reviews I read before purchasing mentioned a high amount of noise, but in my experience it only occurs at higher ISO’s, is not very noticeable, and seems to be in line with other compact cameras that I’ve used, no more, no less. I would NOT let this be a determining factor if I were considering this camera.
This is my first camera with image stabilization and it’s works very well. On a recent trip I took over 500 pictures (and filled up less than 1/4th of my 8-gig card at the highest resolution), and not one of them ended up blurry. The AUTO feature has also proven to be much better than I had anticipated: it changes between 18 settings automatically, such as macro, bright sunshine, etc., and so far, it’s been right on the money. Another complaint that I’ve read is that viewfinder is useless. While it is quite tiny, I have actually used it, and I find it to be quite serviceable. At some point, a camera gets so small that it’s difficult to squeeze everything onto its surface area. Kudos to Canon for even including the optical viewfinder at all.
My complaints are few, and none would be a dealbreaker for me. The small size and smooth, symmetrical shape sometimes make it hard to tell which side I am holding onto when I take it out of my pocket. When attempting to push the power button, I will often realize I am pushing on the bottom of the camera. I have to actually look at it to tell what I am doing. Also, as stated previously, the HD video takes a pretty beefy CPU to play back smoothly. My PC is 4 years old and has a hard time keeping up. The easy solution to this is to play back directly to the monitor/TV with an HDMI cable. It seemed improbable to me that a video made with a camera this small would look good on a 55″ HD television. I was stunned at how sharp it looked.
The bottom line is that anybody looking for an ultra-compact camera is going to be extremely satisfied with this one. It doesn’t take the pictures that a digital SLR is going to, nor does it have the same features. But anybody looking at this camera realizes that already. I went to an arts festival last weekend and was AMAZED at how many people are lugging around DSLR’s these days. It seemed like every other person had one. When looking at performance vs. convenience and portability, I’ll take the SD780 any day.
.
Sony Cybershot DSC-W220 12.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom with Super Steady Shot Image Stabilization
Buy Sony Cybershot DSC-W220 12.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom with Super Steady Shot Image Stabilization (Black)
Customer Rating: ![]()
List Price: $186.95
Best Price: $129.99
See our option price
Available in other color choices
Silver
This has it all. The Cyber-shot DSC-W220 combines a point-and-shoot ease of use with advanced features in a stylish, compact body. Smile Shutter technology lets you capture a smile the moment it happens, and the Carl Zeiss 4x optical zoom, optical SteadyShot image stabilization, and the 12.1-megapixel resolution, crisp, clear images to be delivered.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W220 Highlights
12.1-megapixel Super HAD CCD image sensor
A powerful 12.1-megapixel 1/2.3-inch Super HAD CCD image sensor helps you capture gorgeous images with superb contrast and clarity down to the smallest detail. With 12.1 megapixels, you beautiful, photo-quality prints up to A3 size, or crop your images and still come away with high-resolution images.
Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens with 4x optical zoom
4x optical zoom lens captures crisp images, even from a distance.
2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD (230k pixels)
Generous 2.7-inch (230K pixels) Clear Photo LCD screen offers crisp, natural colors that makes it easy to compose pictures, read menus and photos, even in bright sunlight.
BIONZ image processor
The BIONZ processor delivers high resolution and fast performance you expect from a Sony digital camera.
Face Detection Technology 
Face Detection Technology detects up to eight individual faces and controls flash, focus, exposure and white balance for accurate, natural skin tones with reduced red-eye for beautiful images of family and friends to deliver. Face Detection technology can even distinguish between children and adults, so you can use the cameras focus on children in the scene for clear images of their priority memorable moments.
Smile Shutter technology
The popular Smile Shutter technology automatically detects and captures a smiling face. Choose the Smiley Face feature and the camera will smile when it happens to capture. You can also select subject priority (Adult or Child Priority or touch subject on screen) and indicate the degree of Smile Detection Sensitivity to high (small smile), medium (laugh) or low (grin).
Double Anti-blur Solution
The combination of Optical SteadyShot image stabilization and high ISO sensitivity helps compensate for shaky hands, minimizes blur and allows flash-free shooting to preserve the mood.
SteadyShot image stabilization 
Optical SteadyShot image stabilization uses a built-in gyro sensor to detect camera shake and automatically shifts the lens to help blur without affecting image quality to avoid.
High Sensitivity mode (ISO 3200)
High ISO allows for faster shutter speeds, so you can take pictures indoors or in low light without the need for a flash. In addition to High Sensitivity Mode (ISO), you can select up to eight ISO settings (Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200) when shooting in Program Auto Mode to adjust sensitivity to your shooting conditions.
Useful photo features
Choose from 14 convenient photo features rapid adjustment for specific shooting conditions. Photo scenes, including Auto, Program Auto, Easy Shooting, Smile Shutter technology, high sensitivity, Landscape, Soft Snap, Twilight Portrait and scene selections such as twilight, Beach, Snow, Fireworks, Underwater and Gourmet Mode. Gourmet mode lets you capture the mouth watering culinary creations with all the color and clarity of the images you see in gourmet magazines.
Intelligent Scene Recognition in Action
Intelligent Scene Recognition (iSCN) Mode automatically detects five different types of scenes and selects the appropriate camera settings: Backlight, Backlight Portrait, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Twilight and using a tripod. iSCN has 2 modes: Advanced and Auto. In Auto mode the camera takes a single shot by using the optimal settings. In Advance Mode, the camera takes a picture with the standard automatic settings and only if necessary, a second picture with optimized setting.
Dynamic Range Optimizer Standard and Plus
Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) Standard and Plus uses a sophisticated algorithm to determine the best exposure and contrast settings for almost any conceivable environment. The result is a more natural images with clearer details that better match what your naked eye. DRO is particularly effective when shooting backlit portraits or any scene with dramatic contrast between background and foreground lighting. DRO Plus allows for even greater optimization by analyzing each region of an image and performing additional image processing.
Function Guide
This beginner-friendly optional function helps navigate through the various functions and settings displaying the description of chosen functions or settings on the LCD screen.
Easy shooting mode
Easy shooting mode, even beginners can take great photos. In Easy Recording program, easy to understand simple instructions displayed on the LCD screen and the camera switches to all automatic settings, so you just picture without worrying about settings.
MPEG Movie VX Fine Mode
Capture VX Fine (640×480) audio / video clips at high frame rate (up to 30 frames per second). The maximum length of time you can shoot continuously is approximately 10 minutes.
High Resolution 16:9 Mode
Using the High Resolution 16:9 mode, images with high resolution images in the 16:9 aspect ratio favored by HDTV. This setting is ideal if you plan to view your images on a compatible HDTV and invite friends and family over for a slideshow.
Memory Stick Duo Convenience
The Cyber-shot DSC-W220 camera accepts Memory Stick Duo or Memory Stick PRO Duo media (both sold separately).
Stamina Battery Power
Provides extended battery life and capacity when using a fully charged lithium-ion battery. The included battery supports up to 370 shots.
In-camera retouching
Retouch and enhance your photos on the road with in-camera cropping and red-eye correction function.
HDTV compatibility
View your photos in beautiful high definition on a Sony BRAVIA or similar compatible HDTV using the included HD output adapter cable (VMC-MHC2, sold separately)
PhotoTV HD
Bring your photos to life and enjoy highly detailed, Full HD 1920×1080 images with PhotoTV HD-capable Sony Bravia HDTV (HDTV sold separately). PhotoTV HD fine tunes settings on your HDTV such as sharpness, gradation and color images that look more like actual printed photographs to display.
PHOTO MUSIC function
PHOTO MUSIC combines images with music to produce fun and entertaining slide shows. The five standard visual effects (Simple, Basic, Nostalgic, Active and Stylish) are supplemented with three face priority effects: Face1 (Basic), Face2 (Nostalgic) and Face3 (stylish). You can choose from eight pre loaded tracks on camera or transfer your own from a compatible PC (sold separately).
Wide Zoom Display
To use the entire image of the compatible HDTV screen (sold separately), Wide Zoom display automatically expands standard 4:3 and 3:2 images to 16:9.
Multi-purpose Resize function
The Multi-purpose Resize function lets you change the aspect ratio of an image in the camera, so you images if necessary, revise, or you want to view them on a compatible HDTV, email or upload to a blog (compatible computer with internet connection required) .
Picture Motion Browser Ver. 4.2
Sony PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software7 provides a simple, easy to use way to capture video and still images on your compatible PC, as well as sort, edit, and output to data disc and the Web. Finding your images with PMB is easy to view calendar and search Wikipedia. Face search you can filter on faces (one or several) and a specific person’s face. Share pictures and videos on popular sites with Media Services feature (internet connection required).
What’s in the Box
- NP-BG1 rechargeable battery
- BC-CSG battery charger
- A / V and USB multi-connector cables
- Wrist Strap
- Picture Motion Browser Ver. 4.2
- Note: No Memory Stick Duo or adapters are included.
Product Features
Customer Review
Great so far, May 6, 2009
By J.P. (Western Maryland, USA)
I bought the Cybershot DSC-W220 for my mom’s birthday. She is by no means an enthusiast. It’s purpose is going to be primarily for family photos. We had a HP camera before and decided it was time to upgrade. She has sight problems and had trouble seeing pictures on the tiny Hp screen, but this 2.7″ LCD screen on the W220 helps her a lot.
The controls are easy enough that anyone in my family can use it, from a preteen to a grandfather. Most of the time, you can just leave it on the Auto setting and the camera will adjust settings automatically. There are separate buttons for Playback/Review, Menu, and Home next to the LCD screen. The On/Off button on the top of the camera is a bit hard to press (sometimes you have to use your nail), but it’s understandable because otherwise it’d be easy to accidentally turn the camera on/off. There is a light that comes on from the front so the subjects know when the picture is about to be taken. The Smile Detection automatically takes up to 6 photos, and has a smile meter showing scale of smile(s). Scene Detection detects scenes such as snow, beach, etc automatically and adjusts settings accordingly.
I was debating on whether to get this, the W230, or the Nikon Coolpix. The Nikon seems great but in-store testing demonstrated the quality of the pictures-they were too soft. The touchscreen feature was nice, but not nice enough for a sacrifice in quality. I was short on time, so I grabbed the W220 from BestBuy because the W230 was almost $100 more. After doing some research, and talking to a Sony rep, the only noticeable difference between the W220 and the W230 is the larger screen (2.7″ vs 3.0″, respectively). I wish now I had more time so that I could’ve gotten the W230 from the Sony website-it’s only $20 more!
There are a TON of features in this camera such as Smile Detection, Facial Recognition, and technology to reduce blur caused by shaky hands. This is by far the most bang for the buck for me.
Pros:
Sharp, clear pictures
The HD Video it records in 1080 is excellent
4x optical zoom
scene recognition pics the adjustments for the scene
smile detection automatically takes up to 6 shots when subject(s) are smiling
countless others
Cons:
The only two things I could find so far were that the Smile Detection feature doesn’t work with small smiles, and in some cases, one of the subjects had to smile very wide to activate it.
Also, the camera uses the Memory Stick system (like most of Sony’s products), not SD Cards like most other cameras, so if you’re thinking about purchasing this, be sure to get the Memory Stick (they’re cheap on amazon, but expensive on Sony’s website. Don’t even think about ebay-some are cheap chinese knockoffs that quit working within a few months and all your data is erased-I bought one for my PSP and this is what happened!)
I’ve only owned for a day, so I’ll update this in a few weeks. Oh, and be sure to read the manual for some great tips or charging, photo quality, etc. Most manuals are a drag to read but this has got to be one of the few manuals that is well written. If there are questions anyone has before purchasing, don’t hesitate to leave a comment and I’ll get back ASAP.
———————————————————————————–
Shoots like it’s 3x its size, July 21, 2009
By Fryfat (San Francisco, CA)
I bought this last month to replace my older cybershot, and am impressed with the upgrades Sony has made to this line.
What I love:
* The automatic “Easy” mode is quite good, great for those times when you need a quick shot of something you weren’t expecting, or for beginners who don’t like playing with settings.
* Wide angle zoom
* indoor shots look great, even under incandescent bulbs
* Closeups give good detail. Flowers and insects make good models.
* Connects to my HDTV to show off photos
* Ultra compact, easy to carry
* Great battery life
What I hated:
* No SD card support, this is a Sony product so it will only use Sony’s proprietary media, which is more expensive.
* While the battery is great, I’d still prefer AA rechargables, since buying an AA battery is easier than finding an outlet while traveling.
* Lens has some color issues in the wide angle end, as well as soft corners
* Zoom moves in large steps, what if I want in-between?
* Menu system is confusing
* No optical viewfinder, meaning I always have to use LCD. Would be nice to save on batteries sometimes.
This little camera suits me well, and I’ve been using it over my canon elph. I have nicer cameras, but I never seem to have them when the most interesting things in my life happen. Compatcs, like this guy, are with me all the time. And with 12P to work with, I can still make large prints like I would with my better cameras.
———————————————————————————–
Value for the money, August 16, 2009
By Vince Biasiotta “Tr00per” (Cleveland, Oh)
I have had this camera for more than a month, if you want a basic digital camera that is not confusing and takes great pictures this is an ideal camera. If you want good movie capture than stay away, this is for taking photos not video although the video can be good if indoors and good lighting. I like the ability to choose between HD and SD easily and has the ability to take HD photos in 16:9 format for viewing on wide screen HD tv’s I have done that a bit and found the pictures to be crystal clear, I have a 55″ sony HDTV and if you are concerned about your pictures looking grainy when blown up, Don’t.
I feel very happy with this purchase and would recommend to anyone looking for digital camera for under $200. I have no regrets. I wanted a camera to take great HD photos, quality optics, 4x optical zoom and compatible with my other media. I would rate this camera above average in photo quality and speed of use. I did not give this a five star rating because the burst mode is not very fast and I would have liked a few more features like more complex settings for iso and focus adjustments but then again I was not expecting a full feature set for a non SLR under $200. Very strong Value for the dollar you will enjoy, PS, I am using sandisk pro duo memory sticks and works just fine, Sandisk is so much less expensive than the actual sony pro duo’s
.
You may also want to read Kodak EasyShare C180
Canon PowerShot A1100IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch LCD

Buy Canon PowerShot A1100IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch LCD (Silver)
Customer Rating: ![]()
List Price: $129.00
Best Price: $115.00
See our option price
Available in a variety of choice
Green, Pink, Blue
There is nothing more satisfying than those beautiful pictures! And with the Canon PowerShot A1100 IS is so effortless. The 12.1-megapixel resolution and 4x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer provide bright, detailed images. Plus, you have an advanced DIGIC 4 Image Processor with Face Detection Technology has evolved and the Face Detection Self-Timer for exceptional control and performance. Smart AUTO let your difficult circumstances with ease.
PowerShot A1100 IS Highlights
12.1-megapixel resolution, 4x optical zoom and Optical Image Stabilizer
With the PowerShot A1100 IS, dramatic, personal pictures have never been easier to shoot and share. This 12.1-megapixel digital camera lets you impressive large photos of family and friends will be proud to show you. The high-resolution photos taken by the PowerShot A1100 IS can be enlarged up to 13 cm x 19.
The PowerShot A1100 IS has a 4x optical zoom lens that makes it easy for the inspiring, emotional close-ups that get your images lasting memento. This magnificent lens gives you the power to distant subjects with razor-sharp precision and stunning lifelike color shoot. So you can brilliantly capture a closer shot of a landscape, or a child’s big smile.
The PowerShot A1100 IS features Canon’s renowned optical Image Stabilizer Technology that automatically detects and corrects camera shake – one of the leading causes of fuzzy or blurred images. Even when zoomed in, you can steady, clear, beautiful pictures you will be proud to shoot and share. And Canon Optical Image Stabilizer Technology is so easy to use. It works perfectly with or without flash.
A world of benefits with Canon Technology
The DIGIC 4 Image Processor Face Detection technology has evolved from the faces of those tracks moving subjects and let the shooter enter the frame perfectly with the Face Detection Self-Timer.
DIGIC 4 Image Processor
Canon’s most advanced image processor, DIGIC 4 offers Face Detection technology has evolved, each face in each picture stays looking its best. The technology finds and tracks the faces of moving subjects until you’re ready to shoot, then makes a perfect focus. Furthermore, exposure, flash and white balance, so keeping the faces show natural skin tones and backgrounds are well exposed.
iSAPS Technology is an entirely original scene-recognition technology developed for digital cameras by Canon. Using an internal database of thousands of different photos, iSAPS works with the advanced DIGIC 4 Image Processor to improve focus speed and accuracy, exposure and white balance.
A Face Detection Self-Timer automatically detects an increase in the number of faces and makes the necessary adjustments. For example, the photographer faces in a group shot, there is no need to rush in. Just the camera on a stand or a tripod, specify Face Detection Self-timer, and the camera will wait for the photographer face to get on camera before take the shot. Motion Detection tracks moving subjects in a much larger area – so you wait for the perfect shot without refocusing.
Intelligent Contrast Correction
DIGIC 4 also makes it possible for the i-Contrast (Intelligent Contrast Correction) system, the compensation level in pixel units controls dark areas brighter while bright areas unchanged for better images where the main subject is dark, and more natural transition. The PowerShot A1100 IS can even use i-Contrast in playback mode to adjust images that were shot without the setting activated.
Red-eye Correction provides three options for removing red-eye from subjects in flash pictures. 1) Red-eye Correction during shooting actually identifies and corrects red-eye in human subjects as pictures are taken. 2) The PowerShot A1100 IS can be set to automatically detect and correct red-eye during image playback. 3) You can manually find any red eyes in a scene during image playback on the LCD screen, and command the camera to remove them.
Life does not give you second chances to capture special moments. That is why the PowerShot A1100 IS has an ISO 1600 setting that reduces the effects of camera shake and sharpens subjects in low light, giving you greater shooting flexibility. ISO can be expanded to 3200 when ISO 3200 Special Scene mode.
Smart AUTO intelligently selects the correct settings
Set the Canon PowerShot A1100 IS to ‘smart’ car and you’re ready for maximum enjoyment of your pictures every time. It is a relaxing and satisfying way to shoot, because you can concentrate fully on your subject to know that the camera under the technical details. Canon advanced technology analyzes your situation and intelligent shooting conditions. Then automatically selects the required setting of 18 specially-defined settings. So whether you flowers, an enchanting sunset, or shoot your friends in the park, you can be sure that you get dramatic, memorable images.
Recording Modes
Advanced presets for the best possible photos under certain conditions. With 18 Shooting Modes including 9 Special Scene modes, and you’re ready for whatever shot comes your way
Large, high quality 2.5-inch LCD
The PowerShot A1100 IS’s 2.5-inch LCD screen gives you the big picture, whether you’re shooting, reviewing or showing off your images. This high-resolution screen offers a bright, clear and bright picture. It also features Night Display for easy viewing in low light.
Uses 2 AA batteries 
Conveniently, you do not have to worry about running out or recharging batteries. Since AA batteries can be purchased from any store, simply get new classroom.
The Complete Print Solution
Print / Share button for easy direct printing and downloading, plus ID Photo Print and Movie Print with select PIXMA Inkjet Photo Printers and SELPHY Compact Photo Printers.
The PowerShot A1100 IS Print / Share button makes direct printing easier than ever. Just connect the PowerShot A1100 IS to a Canon PIXMA Photo Inkjet Printer or SELPHY Compact Photo Printer or any PictBridge compatible photo printer, press the lighted Print / Share button and print! The Print / Share button to transfer images to a computer (Windows and Macintosh).
Print your own ID photos in various sizes up to 28 or use the Movie Print function to output multiple stills from a recorded movie on a sheet with a Canon SELPHY Compact Photo Printer.
What’s in the Box
- PowerShot A1100 IS body
- AA-size alkaline battery (x2)
- 128 MB SD Memory Card (SDC-128MB)
- Wrist strap (WS-800)
- Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM
- USB interface cable (IFC-400PCU)
- AV cable (AVC-DC400)
Product Features
- 12.1-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality poster-size prints
- 4x optical zoom and Optical Image Stabilizer; 2.5-inch LCD screen
- DIGIC 4 Image Processor with evolved Face Detection Technology; Face Detection Self-timer
- Uses 2 AA-size batteries
- Compatible with SD/SDHC, MMC/MMC Plus/HC MMC Plus (not included)
Customer Review
Fun and easy to use camera!, July 11, 2009
By Jon H
I purchased this camera just before a 19-day trip to the East Coast and gave it quite a workout…nearly 2800 pictures taken during the trip, and only about 5 of them were unclear due to my unsteady hand. The rest were great, even zoomed out to a ridiculously large size on my computer, with crisp lines and faces, and vivid colors, far exceeding any 35 mm or digital camera I have used in the past.
The camera itself and the software included with it are incredibly intuitive. Though there are many manual settings possible, I set the camera in Auto mode and just clicked away. Many places I took pictures required me to turn off the flash, but even those were very clear and bright, and I had to do nothing but aim and shoot.
The delay time between pictures was negligible, and the rechargeable AA batteries I used were good for around 200 pictures a charge, even using flash and with frequent zooming in and out. I used a 16 GB SDHC chip and had the capacity to take 5,000 pictures! I’m still working on filling the first chip!!
The provided software is also very simple to use…as easy as plugging in the provided USB cable, and turning the camera on. All pictures are quickly and automatically saved in folders by date regardless of how many times in a day you download them, and renaming or tagging pictures is a breeze. I have not even begun making full use of the picture touch-up features, but the software includes a fun and easy slideshow application that makes sharing pictures via desktop or projector a snap.
Overall, I could not be happier that I purchased this camera! I look forward to mastering all its features, but as a user-friendly, versatile, and inexpensive point-and-click camera, it blew away all my expectations. It does all that Canon says it does and makes taking pictures fun and easy, right out of the box!
———————————————————————————-
Best camera is the one you have when you need it…, October 23, 2009
By Kyung Fizaine “KF” (Arizona)
I’m an experienced photographer already equipped with DSLRs (EOS 30D, EOS 5D MKII), but these are not always pratical when you are travelling or biking (I do both on a regular basis). I try to take my DSLRs as often as possible with me but but there are occasions when I don’t want to be bothered by the bulky cameras. At the same time, having already invested significantly in DSLR equipment, I wanted to limit my investment. A G10 or G11 would have been nice but for what I wanted to do, it would have been an overshoot. I’m mainly using my A1100is for candid pictures or pictures of places I know I will be coming back with my DSLRs later. Overall, I’m happy about quality of the pictures. I rarely use the full resolution, I typically shoot with medium resolution as I will rarely print large pictures (I have my DSLRs for that).
What I like:
- price
- size
- optical viewfinder (not many point and shoot cameras at this price range still has an optical viewfinder)
- slow shutter speed flash mode
- IS
What I’m missing:
- no aperture priority mode where I can choose a precise f-stop
- wish would have a wider angle
I would definitely recommend this for people on low budget but still wants good quality pictures. It has a lot of features for a camera which sells around $150.
———————————————————————————-
Nice, easy to use camera, June 3, 2009
By jenniemarie “jenniemarie” (Pittsburgh PA)
I recently decided to upgrade from my Powershot A540 to the A1100IS. What I got was a nice, easy to use camera with many improvements from the earlier model. I find the picture quality to be very good. While other reviews indicate that it performs poorly in low-light conditions, thus far I haven’t had that problem. All of the pictures that I have taken to date have been clear and crisp. There are times when the video viewfinder may appear grainy in low light when attempting to take a picture, however the pictures actually taken are not grainy at all. It is very user friendly, and the motion detection, face recognition, and image stabilization add vast improvements over earlier models. It is small and slim even though it takes AA batteries. If you’re looking for a nice, small, easy to use and very sturdy camera, I would highly reccommend this one.
.
You may also want to read this camera, Nikon Coolpix L20 10MP Digital Camera
Canon PowerShot SX20IS 12.1MP Digital Camera with 20x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch Articulating LCD

Buy Canon PowerShot SX20IS 12.1MP Digital Camera with 20x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch Articulating LCD
Customer Rating: ![]()
List Price: $369.00
Best Price: $329.22
See our option price
Discover the HD difference. With the classic, stylish PowerShot SX20 IS, you can produce stunning HD movies and beautiful pictures. Loaded with features, it’s got a high power, wide-angle 20x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer, 12.1 megapixels, a large 2.5-inch vari-angle LCD, Blink Detection, and more.
The PowerShot SX20 IS is equipped with many of the same features as a higher-end camera: an ultra-powerful zoom, eye-popping resolution and advanced picture-improving technology. Of the 12.1 megapixels of resolution give your photography incomparable depth and ensure that every part of an image can be enlarged and cropped without loss of quality when editing the image even if you choose to print the image. It can create crisp, clear 13 x 19-inch posters.
PowerShot SX20 IS Highlights

Wide-angle lens with 20x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer
The PowerShot SX20 IS features a 20x optical zoom lens with a focal length of 5.0-100mm (35mm equivalent: 28-560mm), which allows you to shoot a scene from wide angle to telephoto. The camera uses a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) for fast, quiet, energy-efficient lens movement with precise control. Focal length is conveniently indicated on the lens.
The lens is optimized to fully exploit its zoom length and wide shooting angle in consultation with the camera high resolution of 12.1 Megapixels. UD glass effectively suppresses chromatic aberration, while enhanced negative refractive power ensures that distortion at the wide angle is also corrected. Further aberration is controlled with the inclusion of a double-sided aspherical glass-molded lens and ultra-high refractive index lens.
The Canon SX20 IS is equipped with canon’s renowned optical Image Stabilizer Technology that automatically detects and corrects camera shake – one of the leading causes of fuzzy or blurred images. Even when zoomed in, you can steady, clear, beautiful pictures that you Recent modificationes proud to shoot and share. And Canon’s Optical Image Stabilizer Technology is convenient to use. It works perfectly with or without flash.
Use the optical zoom while shooting 720p HD movies with superb stereo sound
If you long for the convenience of an advanced camera that also makes for great movies, the new PowerShot SX20 IS can record video in stunning High Definition (1280 x 720 pixels). The camera makes it easy to enjoy HD movies (and still photos) on your HDTV with a mini-HDMI connector for direct connection to a high-definition monitor. You’ll enjoy the HD experience without degradation of image or sound in the signal, plus the ability to display up to 130 thumbnails at a time.
Enhanced Smart AUTO intelligently selects the correct settings
Set the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS to ‘smart’ car and you’re ready for maximum enjoyment of your pictures every time. It is a relaxing and satisfying way to shoot, because you can concentrate fully on your subject to know that the camera under the technical details. Canon advanced technology analyzes your situation and intelligent shooting conditions. Then automatically selects the setting up of 22 specially-defined settings. So whether you flowers, an enchanting sunset, or shoot your friends in the park, you can rest assured that you get dramatic, memorable images.
Recording Modes
Advanced presets for the best possible photos under certain conditions. With 24 shooting modes, you’re ready for that shot comes your way.
DIGIC 4 Image Processor
Canon’s own DIGIC Image Processors have long set its cameras from the competition, and new DIGIC 4 is the bar even higher. Faster, more accurate noise reduction ensures better picture quality, even at high ISO speeds.
iSAPS Technology is an entirely original scene-recognition technology developed for digital cameras by Canon. Using an internal database of thousands of different photos, iSAPS works with the advanced DIGIC 4 Image Processor to improve focus speed and accuracy, exposure and white balance.
Large 2.5-inch vari-angle LCD makes viewing easy

The camera 2.5-inch LCD screen gives you the big picture, whether you’re shooting, reviewing or showing off your images. This high-resolution screen offers a crisp, clear picture to make shooting, playback and camera, aos menu functions especially convenient. Clear and bright, it also features Night Display for easy viewing in low light. It also has an electronic viewfinder that sharp images when you shoot a close-up with Super Macro shooting mode offers.
These AA batteries camera lets you quickly power up
Conveniently, you do not have to worry about running the battery or having to recharge them. Since AA batteries can be purchased from any store, simply get new room where you go – no special power adapters or chargers are needed.
What’s in the Box
- PowerShot SX20 IS Body
- AA-size alkaline battery (x4)
- Neck Strap NS-DC4
- Lens Hood LH-DC50
- Lens cap
- Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM
- USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
- Stereo Video Cable STV-250N
Product Features
- High-powered 20x wide-angle optical zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer
- Capture 720p HD movies with stereo sound; HDMI output connector for easy playback on your HDTV
- 2.5-inch Vari-Angle System LCD; improved Smart AUTO intelligently selects from 22 predefined shooting situations
- DIGIC 4 Image Processor; 12.1-megapixel resolution for poster-size, photo-quality prints
- Powered by AA batteries (included); capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)
Customer Review
SX20 IS Great Hybrid Camera For Video And Stills, September 6, 2009
By B. Massey “massmanjr” (TX United States)
Let me start off by saying that I’m not a professional photographer. My decision to purchase the SX20 IS was based on a desire to get an excellent still shot camera, with high capacity zoom, that also had HD Video (720p) capabilities. So, I began my research and spent many hours scouring the web to make an informed decision. I had narrowed my choice to the Canon SX20 IS and the Panasonic DMC-FZ35.
Here are some of the key specs of each camera:
Optical Zoom (Canon: 20, Pana: 18)
Still image files (Canon: Not Raw, Pana: Raw)
Articulating LCD (Canon: Yes, Pana: No)
720p HD video per 2 GB (Canon: 10 min 33 sec, Pana: 15 min)
Video file format (Canon: .mov, Pana: AVCHD Lite)
Battery Type: (Canon: 4 AA, Pana: Li-ion rechargeable)
Stereo Audio (Both)
SD Card Storage (Both)
[...].
In the end I decided to go with Canon for a few key reasons:
#1. The articulating LCD (pull out, tilt/move) was a key factor, as I wanted to be able to shoot from many different angles. It came in handy very soon–the second time I used the camera–I was able to whip out the LCD and get some decent shots at a football game when I had to raise the camera high over my head to shoot over the folks standing in front of me.
#2. The ability to easily share video files. The .mov file format is a more widely accepted format, which can easily be shared (without processing/conversion). The files are accepted on sites such as You Tube. The files can be played with Quicktime and other media players (e.g. VLC). Although the Panasonic camera uses a format which is more compressed and allows more data to be stored on an SD card, the file format is not as wide spread and not as easy to share with others, without converting the file.
#3. Consumer Reports rankings for last year’s model: Canon #1, Pana #5 (SX10 IS & Pana DMC-FZ28). I suspect the SX20 IS will follow the same trend this year when Consumer Reports releases their test results for 2009.
#4. Canon takes AA batteries. This makes the camera slightly heavier, but you’ll always be able to get economical batteries in a pinch, without the need for buying a proprietary lithium ion battery. May I recommend Sanyo Eneloop rechargeable batteries. I bought some new on Amazon. They are excellent. I haven’t charged them yet and I’ve taken 120 pictures and 40 minutes plus of 720p video. I’ve also played back the pictures and movies on my TV/Projector and transferred all files to my computer, using the same batteries, without charging them. And they are “..still going…”
Here are some sample pictures taken with the SX20 IS. Keep in mind that Flickr doesn’t display the full, original picture which was taken in maximum resolution (in auto mode). [...].
I’ve taken some great up-close family shots and macro shots. They look great and are very detailed. I took some night/action pics (with the flash) and adjusted the shutter speed and ISO settings and the pictures looked great, given the conditions.
[...].
I apologize for the camera jitter in advance as I didn’t have a tri-pod and I was in a tight area in the Stadium when I took the shots.
I must admit that I am thoroughly impressed with the video quality/resolution. I shot sample video from my 1 year old camcorder (Panasonic SDR-H40, a standard definition hard drive camcorder) and shot the same footage with the SX20 IS. The difference in quality was amazing. Not only was the Canon much sharper, but the richness and vibrance of the colors was so much better. I sold my SDR-H40 on Ebay within two days. I now will have only one camera to shoot stills and 720p HD video–the Canon SX20 IS. The videos from the SX20 IS looked awesome–on both my 32 inch 720p LCD and my 100+ inch screen via a 720p DLP projector. I connected the camera with an HDMI cable and bam, I was ready to watch great video and view still shots “on the big screen.” See the above referenced links for video footage yourself. If I were given the opportunity to watch a football game shot in standard definition by ESPN or an HD version of the same game, shot with the SX20 IS (on a tripod, without my hand jitter), I’d pick the latter in a heart beat.
No buyer’s remorse here! If you are looking for an SLR type camera, that does awesome stills and great 720p HD video (both zoomable at 20x optical), you’d be hard pressed to get more bang for your buck then the SX20 IS on Amazon.
One minor issue I’ve noticed is that when zooming in/out while shooting video, you can here a slight “click” when you initiate the zoom and when you stop the zoom. There is NO noise heard while the lens is zooming/telescoping in/out; the “click” is only heard when the zoom is initiated and when the zoom is stopped. The “click” is not that noticeable. I had to shoot footage in silence, after the kids had gone to bed, in order to distinguish the “click.” In most shooting environments I don’t expect it to be much of an issue.
Best of luck with your purchase decision.
P.S. By the way, the owner manual states that you must use the Canon software to transfer images/movies from the camera to a PC, else movies will not transfer (frames will be dropped) correctly and images shot vertically may be transferred in the horizontal orientation. So, don’t just do a copy/paste of the files them self from the SD card. Keep this in mind as you view sample video on the web.
—————————————————————————-
I bought the SX20 because I had good luck with the SX10, September 4, 2009
By Kirk Tuck “Kirk Tuck” (Austin, Texas)
I shoot all kinds of stuff with all kinds of cameras. I am a working photographer who shoots for advertising and corporate client as well as to make images for my own books about photography. Over the last two years I’ve been using small cameras like the Canon G10 and the SX10 for more and more of my work. In the studio, shooting set up shots or small products these cameras shine by dint of their easy to use Live View and increased depth of field. When I bought the SX 10 it was for the long range of the zoom lens which meant I could shoot anything from a construction site to tight shots of the cabins at the top of the construction cranes. I’ve done some portraits with studio lights and an SX10 and they were also very usable. I wish the SX 10 and SX 20 had raw file capability but they don’t. That just means I have to be a bit more careful about WB and exposure. I’ve used the SX10 at outdoor swim meets and found that the lens performs better than expected right out to the end.
So, why the SX 20? Recently I’ve been asked to do more and more little video snippets for clients and for my publisher and while I like the results from the SX10 I wanted real HD video for the times that a medical practice has asked for video clips for both their website AND for power point and other uses. I wanted the extra detail for the times that they use the clips in projected presentations. The price point works.
I’ve spent a couple days testing the SX 10 and the results are very, very good. The front mounted microphones are of very high quality and the sound for most applications is very acceptable. Would I like a mike input? You bet! Does that sour the deal? Not in the least.
The image quality of the stills is just as good as the SX 10 at low ISO’s and about 1/2 a stop better at 200 and 400. I’ll chalk that up to the new digic processor.
All in all the build quality and the easy operation make the camera a winner for me. These days clients are more interested in using images and video in a wide range of multimedia and the SX 20 is a great tool for anything that’s headed to the web. I still own traditional DLSR cameras and use them but left to my own devices I find the smaller sensor cameras to be highly competent and very usable.
With an SX20 and a G10 I feel like I can handle just about anything except shots that call for narrow depth of field. Traditional photographers may not want to hear that video is becoming a required skill but that won’t make it go away. This camera is a cost effective way to get your feet wet, find your way around and get your feet wet. I like it.
—————————————————————————-
Use The Foilage Setting For Best Color Pics, September 12, 2009
By S. Barcomb (New York)
I received the camera a few days ago. I wanted a good quality camera for all-around, basic shooting. The main features that attracted me were the wide angle/zoom lens and the video option.
I am not an expert, or even an experienced amateur. I just want to be able to point, shoot, and take decent pics and some occassional vidoe.
In my opinion, the best eye-pleasing pictures are those that show the vibrant colors and color variations – all other things being equal. I’ve experimented with various settings and taken the same shots with those various settings, and compared shots taken with Auto, Landscape, Portrait, etc. against the Foilage setting [SCN/Foilage], and the Foilage setting is by far the best for bringing out the colors (which it is meant to do anyway). Compared to those pics taken using the Foilage setting, the ones taken in the other settings are dull – not that they aren’t decent pictures in the other settings, just compared to the Foilage pictures they are dull(er). So for basic shots, I will probably use the Foilage setting most of the time for all-around shooting – the pictures are beautiful. One problem I expect with this, is to get to the Foilage setting, you must use the top dial set to SCN, then using the free-spinning dial on the back, select foilage. Problem is, after taking shots and letting the camera hang against your body, the free-spinning dial may be prone to be moved to select another setting…
One of the issues I do have, is not being able to choose to set the Auto-Focus frame to the center of the screen for many settings – such as Auto… I’m not crazy about the “smart focus” which chooses which subject(s) that it thinks is the main subject(s) – in my case of shooting mostly non-people so far, this “smart-focus” has been wrong. I think most of us non-pro photographers usually center our subject anyway, and even if we don’t, we should still have the option of keeping the AF frame in the center… One other thing that hasn’t worked for me is connecting it to HDMI on my TV. I’m going to take it to Best Buy and try it there. If it still isn’t working, I hate to send it back because it is a good camera, but I would like the HDMI feature to work to see my videos in true HD.
In summary, the wide-to-zoom feature is great, takes very good pictures (especially in Foilage), takes excellent video. The video option is excellent – you can take pics while filming, and you can simply press the video button in the back to start taking video even if you’re in a picture-taking setting – very nice feature.
If you’re not a pro photographer and want to have a great all-around camera, this is definitely a good buy. I hope I can get my HDMI/TV feature to work so I can keep my camera…
.
See also Nikon Coolpix L20, cool and cheap camera
Canon PowerShot SD1200IS 10 MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch LCD
Buy Canon PowerShot SD1200IS 10 MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch LCD (Dark Gray)
Customer Rating: ![]()
List Price: $179.00 ; you save 8%
Price: See our price right now
Canon PowerShot SD1200IS available in various color options
Blue, Pink/red, Orange, Silver
With a camera puts a smile on your face when you do, imagine how great you’ll feel when your first pictures! The PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital SLR has everything going on – exuberant color, the style of the famous carved USM Canon series – and the innovative know-how that takes you to a whole new level of picture-taking performance. Fun, smart and a style that follows you everywhere.
.
PowerShot SD1200 IS Highlights
10.0-megapixel resolution makes it a breeze to print large images
The PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital SLR, dramatic, personal pictures have never been easier to shoot and share. This 10.0-megapixel camera produces impressive large photos of family and friends you’ll be proud display. The high-resolution photos taken by the SD1200 IS Digital SLR can be enlarged to 13 x 19 cm.
The PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital SLR features Canon’s renowned optical Image Stabilizer Technology that automatically detects and corrects camera shake – one of the leading causes of fuzzy or blurred images. Even when zoomed in, you can steady, sharp, brilliant images you’ll be proud to shoot and share. And Canon’s Optical Image Stabilizer Technology is so easy to use. It works perfectly with or without flash.
Large, bright 2.5-inch Pure Color LCD II screen and a wide viewing angle
The PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital SLR gives you a large 2.5-inch LCD screen for excellent control when developing your shots. Canon PureColor LCD II offers spectacular color, resolution and contrast even when viewed at an angle. The screen is highly durable and easy to see in a light with a scratch resistant, anti-reflective coating. It also features Night Display for easy viewing in low light – a perfect feature for gathering friends and family around to see your pictures.
Smart AUTO intelligently selects the correct settings
Set the Canon PowerShot SD1200 IS digital SLR to smart car and you’re ready for maximum enjoyment of your pictures every time. It is a relaxing and satisfying way to shoot, because you can concentrate fully on your subject to know that the camera under the technical details. Canon advanced technology analyzes your situation and intelligent shooting conditions. Then automatically selects the required setting of 18 specially-defined settings. So whether you flowers, an enchanting sunset, or your friends shoot you in the park, you can rest assured that you get dramatic, memorable images.
Recording Modes
Advanced presets for the best possible photos under certain conditions. With 17 shooting modes, you’re ready for that shot comes your way.
A world of benefits with Canon’s Technology
The DIGIC 4 Image Processor Face Detection technology has evolved from the faces of those tracks moving subjects and let the shooter enter the frame perfectly with the Face Detection Self-Timer.

DIGIC 4 Image Processor
Canon’s most advanced image processor, DIGIC 4 offers Face Detection technology has evolved, each face in each picture stays looking its best. The technology finds and tracks the faces of moving subjects until you’re ready to shoot, then makes a perfect focus. Furthermore, exposure, flash and white balance, so keeping the faces show natural skin tones and backgrounds are well exposed.
iSAPS Technology is an entirely original scene-recognition technology developed for digital cameras by Canon. Using an internal database of thousands of different photos, iSAPS works with the advanced DIGIC 4 Image Processor to improve focus speed and accuracy, exposure and white balance.
A Face Detection Self-Timer automatically detects an increase in the number of faces and makes the necessary adjustments. For example, at the sight of the photographer in a group shot, there is no need to rush in. Just the camera on a stand or a tripod, specify Face Detection Self-timer, and the camera will wait on the face of the photographer get on – camera before taking the shot. Motion Detection tracks moving subjects in a much larger area – so you wait for the perfect shot without refocusing.
Intelligent Contrast Correction
DIGIC 4 also makes it possible for the i-Contrast (Intelligent Contrast Correction) system, the compensation level in pixel units controls dark areas brighter while bright areas unchanged for better images where the main subject is dark, and more natural transition. The PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital SLR can even use i-Contrast in playback mode the images are shot without the setting activated to apply.
Red-eye Correction provides three options for removing red-eye from subjects in flash pictures. 1) Red-eye Correction during shooting actually identifies and corrects red-eye in human subjects as pictures are taken. 2) The PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital SLR can be set to automatically detect and correct red-eye during image playback. 3) You can manually find any red eyes in a scene during image playback on the LCD screen, and command the camera to remove them.
Life does not give you second chances to capture special moments. Therefore, the PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital SLR is an ISO 1600 setting that reduces the effects of camera shake and sharpens subjects in low light, giving you greater shooting flexibility. ISO can be expanded to 3200 when ISO 3200 Special Scene mode.
What’s in the Box
- PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital ELPH body
- Lithium-ion battery pack (NB-6L)
- Battery charger (CB-2LY)
- Wrist strap (WS-DC7)
- Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM
- USB interface cable (IFC-400PCU)
- AV cable (AVC-DC400)
Product Features
- 10.0-megapixel resolution captures enough detail for prints up to 13 x 19 inches
- 3x optical zoom; 2.5-inch PureColor LCD II screen
- DIGIC 4 Image Processor with evolved Face Detection Technology; Face Detection Self-timer
- Smart AUTO intelligently selects the proper settings
- Compatible with SD/SDHC, MMC/MMC Plus/HC MMC Plus (not included)
Customer Review
Super-portable, capable camera, March 29, 2010
By T. Wayne Pfeiler (Raleigh, NC)
I purchased a green Canon SD1200 IS camera immediately before taking a vacation in March 2010. I’ve owned several other digital cameras previously and for this trip I wanted something inexpensive, small, and reliable. For my intended purposes, this camera worked very well.
Start-up time is under 2 seconds, so I was able to quickly whip out the camera and take pictures at a moment’s notice. Compared to other Canon cameras I’ve used, this one is noisier than most as it constantly refocuses in auto mode. While the mechanical lens motion noises may be slightly noisy, this probably helped to reduce the time needed to compose a shot when I lightly pressed the shutter button before taking a shot. The 3X optical zoom worked well, and digital zoom is also available at the expense of image quality. The built-in flash is small, and not useful at distances farther than 10 feet, but that’s typical of very small cameras like this model. The optical viewfinder is nice, if you’d like to take pictures in low light, where you might want to use the high ISO night mode, but I would suggest a tripod in those cases. The face-detection worked well for taking group photos, and the new “Digic 4″ processor in the camera seemed very fast for all features included. Speaking of features, you won’t find things like color replacement in this model, probably since it’s aimed at the simpler point & shoot market. Advanced users may note that at the time of writing this review, a CHDK is not yet available for this model. Battery life is quite good. For the average user, you should be able to take pictures throughout the day and evening before needing to recharge it at night. Picture quality was good, and the easy user interface is up to par with typical Canon excellence. The camera is small enough to fit easily in a pocket, but the metal body makes it feel fairly rugged.
The green color is attractive and stands out from the typical silver or black digital cameras most people have today. I received several compliments and questions about where I found it. All in all, the SD1200 IS was an excellent lightweight sidekick for my vacation.
—————————————————————————–
Great point & click camera, March 29, 2010
By R. Brichta
I bought this camera to replace a Canon PowerShot that I got about 2.5 years ago, and this camera is working great. It’s definitely easy to use and there hasn’t been any trouble getting good photos. I love the color, which makes my camera stand out from others if I’m with friends who are also taking pictures. I have a baby coming in a few weeks and we’re hoping that this camera works well for LOTS of infant pictures!
—————————————————————————–
Perfect for the Middle School Kid, March 29, 2010
By Clyde H. Hedlund
With the kid hopping on a plane in a couple of hours, bought this camera along with 4gb sd card. The 4gb card was a mistake for the kid used it up in no time. From now on, I’m just buying 8+ gig cards, for the kid just wants to shoot and shoot both photos and movies. Unbelivable, but you can zoom in movie mode and the pictures are sharp, even if not HD. For the price, you can’t beat the performance, especially when shooting photos and movies to be shown at school and used in reports. Main thing, the kid is happy and likes to show off the sharp pictures and videos.
.
See our previous post, Nikon Coolpix L20 10MP Digital Camera

