Canon Digital Camera Review

Canon PowerShot S330 Digital ELPH Camera Review

2006-02-21T18:53:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot S330 2MP Digital ELPH Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Canon's new PowerShot S330 "Digital ELPH" is the 2002 upgrade to the PowerShot S300 camera. It retains and improves upon the stylish and elegant design that made the S300 one of the most popular digital cameras of 2001. Packed inside of the highly compact and durable stainless steel case is a 3x optical 35-105mm f/2.7-4.7 zoom lens and a 2.0 megapixel CCD sensor. The menu interface and camera controls have been improved to make it easier to use. It features direct print capability with Canon's new CP-100 and CP-10 Card Photo Printers as well as the S820D Photo printer for making direct, borderless prints up to 8.5 x 11-inches without need of a computer.

The S330 captures high-resolution still images up to 1600 x 1200 pixels for printing or you can select 1024 x 768 or 640 x 480 size for screen or web use. For creative control it has a Photo Effects mode; a shutter speed range of 15 seconds to 1/1500 second; spot metering; selectable ISO settings from 50 to 400; built-in red-eye reduction light-guide flash; and zoom playback up to 10x for convenient image review.

A new Intelligent Orientation sensor has been added to both models to detect whether an image has been recorded horizontally or vertically. During image playback, the sensor detects the proper orientation of each image, and previews them accordingly without the need to rotate the camera for image viewing. It is also adjusts AF, AE and white balance accordingly. Similarly, when using the ZoomBrowser EX and ImageBrowser software included with the cameras, vertical and horizontal picture orientation is automatically detected and appropriately displayed.
The S330 comes with a comprehensive suite of programs enabling image management, editing, compositing and printing. It's compatible with both Mac and PC computers, including Windows XP and Mac OS X. Included is Apple QuickTime 5.0, Canon RemoteCapture 2.4, and PhotoStitch 3.1 for both Macintosh and Windows, as well as Canon ZoomBrowser EX 3.3, PhotoRecord 1.4 and WIA and TWAIN drivers for Windows, plus ImageBrowser 2.3 and a Photoshop-compatible plug-in for the Mac. Features integrated in both ZoomBrowser EX 3.3 and ImageBrowser 2.3 include TimeTunnel and SlideShowMaker. When using ZoomBrowser EX 3.3 or ImageBrowser 2.3, users can take advantage of new and improved features for auto layout printing, self-running full-screen slide shows, and automated preparation of images for use as e-mail attachments.

PowerShot S330 Features

2.0 Megapixel CCD imager for up to 1600x1200 pixel images
3x optical 35-105mm f/2.7-4.7 zoom, 2.5x digital zoom
1.5" color LCD with up to 10x playback zoom
Highly compact and durable stainless steel body (3.7 x 2.5 x 1.2 in.)
Advanced TTL AiAF three-point autofocus system
Program AE automatic and Manual exposure modes
Movie mode w/sound, 20fps 640x480 / 320x240 / 160x120
2.5fps Continuous exposure mode
Evaluative metering on focus point or Spot
Stitch Assist mode for perfect panoramas
Exposure compensation: +/-2EV in 1/3-step increments
White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
Photo Effects: Low Sharpening, Vivid Color, Neutral, Sepia and B&W
Low-light focus assist illuminator
Shutter speeds of 15 seconds to 1/1500 second
Selectable ISO settings from 50 to 400
Voice memo (up to 60 secs) can be attached to images
Intelligent Orientation sensor
Builtin microphone and speaker
Lithium rechargable battery and charger included
Direct print to CP-100, CP-10 and S820D printers
USB connectivity for PC and Mac
Optional WP-DC500 Waterproof Case

Canon PowerShot S300 Digital ELPH Camera Review

2006-02-21T18:46:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot S300 2MP Digital ELPH Camera Kit w/ 3x Optical Zoom

The PowerShot S300 Digital ELPH (also known as IXY DIGITAL 300 in Europe) is Canon's second ultra-compact digital camera and at the time of this review it's the world's smallest and lightest 2.1 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom lens. In addition the S300 offers a number of new and improved features including: direct print capabilities with the new Canon Card Photo Printer CP-10; 20 frame-per-second movie clips with audio at selectable resolutions up to 640x480 pixels; shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/1500 second; an adaptive primary color filter for improved color reproduction; a choice of nine image quality modes; automatic exposure sensitivity adjustment; and a high-output light guide flash.

Inside is state of the art image processing hardware with a new high-speed digital signal processing IC with low power consumption and a high performance 0.37-inch CCD imager with 2.11 million pixel resolution. Finished JPEG pictures are captured in 1600 x 1200 resolution or 1024x768 and 640x480 when set in the Middle or Small modes. Sequential shooting mode offers a capture rate of 2 pictures per second in full resolution with the LCD and flash off. The equivalent film sensitivity is fixed at ISO 100 but gains up automatically to ISO 150 in low light.

When powered down, the lens is safely tucked away inside of the highly durable stainless steel body that measures just 3.7 x 2.5 x 1.2 inches. This is truly a "pocket size" camera that weighs a scant 8.5 ounces. As with all the Canon compacts, the S300 has a light-assisted autofocus that even works in the dark. An advanced TTL AiAF three-point autofocus system permits the camera to automatically select the primary subject even when off-center.

What's in the Box?

The PowerShot S300 has a very good bundle. Inside the box, you'll find:

The 2.1 Mpixel Canon PowerShot S300 Digital ELPH camera
8MB CompactFlash card
NB-1L Li-ion battery pack and charger
Wrist strap
USB cable
A/V cable
CD-ROM featuring Canon Digital Camera Solutions and ArcSoft Camera Suite
100 page manual

Canon PowerShot S200 Digital ELPH Camera Review

2006-02-21T18:36:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot S200 2MP Digital ELPH Camera w/ 2x Optical Zoom

Canon's PowerShot S200 "Digital ELPH" is the year 2002 upgrade to the PowerShot S110 camera. It retains and improves upon the stylish and elegant design that made the S110 one of the most popular digital cameras of 2001. Packed inside of the highly compact and durable stainless steel case is a 2x optical 35-70mm f/2.8-4.0 zoom lens and a 2.0 megapixel CCD sensor. The menu interface and camera controls have been improved to make it easier to use. It features direct print capability with Canon's new CP-100 and CP-10 Card Photo Printers.

The S200 captures high-resolution still images up to 1600 x 1200 pixels for printing or you can select 1024 x 768 or 640 x 480 size for screen or web use. For creative control it has a Photo Effects mode; a shutter speed range of 15 seconds to 1/1500 second; spot metering; selectable ISO settings from 50 to 400; built-in red-eye reduction light-guide flash; and zoom playback up to 10x for convenient image review.

A new Intelligent Orientation sensor has been added to both models to detect whether an image has been recorded horizontally or vertically. During image playback, the sensor detects the proper orientation of each image, and previews them accordingly without the need to rotate the camera for image viewing. It is also adjusts AF, AE and white balance accordingly. Similarly, when using the ZoomBrowser EX and ImageBrowser software included with the cameras, vertical and horizontal picture orientation is automatically detected and appropriately displayed.
The S200 comes with a comprehensive suite of programs enabling image management, editing, compositing and printing. It's compatible with both Mac and PC computers, including Windows XP and Mac OS X. Included is Apple QuickTime 5.0, Canon RemoteCapture 2.4, and PhotoStitch 3.1 for both Macintosh and Windows, as well as Canon ZoomBrowser EX 3.3, PhotoRecord 1.4 and WIA and TWAIN drivers for Windows, plus ImageBrowser 2.3 and a Photoshop-compatible plug-in for the Mac.

PowerShot S200 Features

2.0 Megapixel CCD imager for up to 1600x1200 pixel images
2x optical 35-70mm f/2.8-4.0 zoom, 2.5x digital zoom
1.5" color LCD with up to 10x playback zoom
Highly compact and durable stainless steel body
Advanced TTL AiAF three-point autofocus system
Program AE automatic and Manual exposure modes
Movie mode w/sound, 20fps 640x480 / 320x240 / 160x120
2.5fps Continuous exposure mode
Evaluative metering on focus point or Spot
Stitch Assist mode for perfect panoramas
Exposure compensation: +/-2EV in 1/3-step increments
White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
Photo Effects: Low Sharpening, Vivid Color, Neutral, Sepia and B&W
Low-light focus assist illuminator
Shutter speeds of 15 seconds to 1/1500 second
Selectable ISO settings from 50 to 400
Intelligent Orientation sensor
Builtin microphone
Lithium rechargable battery and charger included
Direct print to CP-100 and CP-10 printers
USB connectivity for PC and Mac

Canon PowerShot S110 Digital ELPH Camera Review

2006-02-20T20:55:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot S110 2MP Digital ELPH Camera Kit with 2x Optical Zoom.

The Canon PowerShot S110 is the next generation digital ELPH, it retains many of the features that made the PowerShot S100 the most popular digital still camera in the market including its ultra-compact and elegant stainless steel design. The PowerShot S110 is a 2.1 megapixel camera which incorporates new and improved features including direct print capabilities from the Canon Card Photo Printer CP-10; 20 frame-per-second movie clips with audio at selectable resolutions up to 640x480 pixels; a choice of nine image quality modes; shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/1500 second; an adaptive primary color filter for improved color reproduction; automatic exposure sensitivity adjustment; a new high-speed digital signal processing IC with low power consumption; and a high-output light guide flash.

A new digital signal processing IC in the PowerShot S110 enables high-speed image processing and rapid data transfer through the cameras' USB interface. Due to the new digital signal processing IC, the S110's movie clip processing speed is approximately 2.7 times faster that other models in its class. The PowerShot S110 also features a 2X (equivalent to 35-70mm in the 35mm format) f/2.8-4.0 all-glass aspherical lens, 3-point autofocus, and continuous shooting at 2.5 frames per second. The new camera measures 3.5 (W) x 2.3 (H) x 1.0 (D)-inches and weighs approximately 6.8 ounces.

The PowerShot S110 features a 1/2.7-inch, 2.1 megapixel CCD sensor that creates full color or black-and-white images up to 1600x1200 pixels when set to the camera's Large resolution mode. The camera also offers additional resolution settings of 1024x768 and 640x480 when set in the Middle or Small modes, which are ideal for on-screen applications, such as Web sites and CD-ROMs and allow more images to be recorded on a single CompactFlash memory card. The new camera is compatible with Type I CompactFlash Cards and will be shipped with an 8MB CF card.

The new PowerShot S110 is supplied with the following standard accessories: 8MB CompactFlash Card, Lithium-Ion Battery Pack NB-1L, Battery Charger CB-2LS, Interface Cable IFC-200PCU, AV Cable AVC-DC200, Wrist Strap WS-110, User's Guide, Software Starter Guide & System Map, Canon U.S.A., Inc. Limited Warranty, Canon Digital Camera Solution Disk v5.0 (for Mac & PC), & ArcSoft Camera Suite Software Disk (for Mac & PC).

What's in the Box?

The PowerShot S110 has an excellent bundle. Inside the box, you'll find:

The 2.1 Mpixel PowerShot S110 camera
8MB CompactFlash card
NB-1L Li-ion battery and charger
Wrist strap
USB cable
A/V cable
CD-ROM featuring Canon Digital Solutions, ArcSoft Camera Suite, and drivers
106 page manual

Canon PowerShot S100 Digital ELPH Camera Review

2006-02-20T20:42:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot S100 2MP Digital ELPH Camera w/ 2x Optical Zoom

The new Canon PowerShot S100 (Digital ELPH) is undoubtedly the smallest 2-megapixel digital camera with an optical zoom. When powered down, the lens is safely tucked away inside of the highly durable stainless steel body and it measures just 3.4 x 2.2 x 1.1 inches. This is truly a "pocket size" camera that weighs a scant 6.7 ounces.

Inside is state of the art image processing hardware including a high performance 1/2.7-inch CCD imager with 2.11 million pixel resolution. Finished JPEG pictures are captured in Super-Fine and Fine quality in 1600 x 1200 resolution or Fine quality in 640 x 480 resolution.

Sequential shooting mode offers a capture rate of 2 pictures per second in full resolution with the LCD and flash off. The equivalent film sensitivity is fixed at ISO 100.

When powered up, the all-glass f/2.8-4.0 aspherical 35-70mm (35mm equivalent) 2x optical zoom lens automatically extends out from the body. An advanced TTL AiAF three-point autofocus system permits the camera to automatically select the primary subject even when off-center.

As with all the Canon compacts, the S100 has a light-assisted autofocus that even works in the dark. Focusing range is 22 inches to infinity in normal mode and macro coverage is 4 to 22 inches in wideangle and 11 to 22 inches in telephoto.

Metering is accomplished using a 64-zone, center-weighted TTL exposure system. Shutter speeds are automatically controlled and range from 1 to 1/1500 sec (1-sec. for Slow-Synchro mode and manual with flash set to off). The builtin flash offers Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye Reduction and Slow-Synchro modes. Flash range is 11 in. to 10 ft. in wideangle or 11 in. to 7 ft. in telephoto. There's a high-speed USB interface for image downloads to the host computer.

Canon PowerShot S10 Digital Camera Review

2006-02-20T20:23:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot S10 2MP Digital Camera w/ 2x Optical Zoom.

The S10 is an interesting progression from the A50 and may be an indication of Canon's approach to digital cameras, leaning on their expertise in making compact cameras and lens systems they're now well placed to churn out sophisticated pocket powerhouses .

And the S10 could certainly fit under the "compact" label, not only is it small, light, strong and pixel-packed but its also feature rich, fast and flexible. Best of all? Image Quality is superb and the camera is responsive and well designed

Conclusion - Pros

Excellent image quality (bright, clear, sharp, detailed)
Super-Fine JPEG mode makes for TIFF like images at half the size
Ability to take CF type II cards
Quality build and good looks
Size and weight
Automatic lens cover (no dangly strings or lost caps here)
Excellent menu system and "human interface" (ergonimics)
Good metering (if sometimes a little dark)
Good white balance (with easy-to-access override)
Excellent low-light and night ability (if limited to 2 seconds exposures)
Well thought-out features, useful "IMAGE" mode
Bright clear and detailed LCD with fast refresh rate
Stitch assist mode
ISO control
Memory buffer display
USB

Conclusion - Cons

Sometimes annoying lack of image review unless you hold your finger down on the shutter release (there is a work-around, put the camera in continuous mode)
No image delete button in playback mode, must enter "delete mode" (niggle)
No review keep/delete option after you've taken the shot
ellowing of skin tones using the flash
Limited zoom (70 mm)
Very little else...

Canon PowerShot A200 Digital Camera Review

2006-02-20T20:18:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot A200 2MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom
The PowerShot A200 is a 2.0 megapixel, single-focal length autofocus camera incorporating several advanced camera features including Movie mode, Photo Effects, Direct Print capabilities using Canon's CP-100 dye-sub printer, and magnified playback up to 10x for precise image confirmation. It is designed to make digital photography as easy as point-and-shoot.

The PowerShot A200 also incorporates a number of high-end features including the popular Photo Effects mode originally introduced in the highly advanced PowerShot G2 camera. A low sharpening mode has been added to the Vivid, Neutral, Sepia and Black-and-White modes for a total of five separate effects for greater creativity.

The shutter speed range of the A200 is among the widest in its class with a maximum shutter speed of 1/2000 second. Combining this speed with the lens's f/5.6 minimum aperture setting makes the A200 ideal for daylight photography and fast-moving objects. Alternatively, when the one-second slow shutter speed is combined with the camera's f/2.8 maximum aperture and optional ISO 400 setting, photos taken in low light conditions can be captured easily.

The PowerShot A200 can record movies in QVGA (320 x 240 pixels) and Q2VGA (160 x 120 pixels) at 20 frames per second. Up to 9 seconds of continuous recording is possible in QVGA, and up to 30 seconds in the Q2VGA format.

PowerShot A200 Features

2.0 Megapixel CCD for images up to 1600 x 1200 pixels.
5mm (39mm) F2.8 optical lens, 4x digital zoom
1.5-inch TFT color LCD, approx. 120,000 pixels
3-point AiAF system with single-point center focus and focus lock
Low-light focus assist illuminator
Exposure modes: Auto/ manual/ stitch assist/ movie
Motion video @ 20fps, 320x240 9 secs or 160x120 30 secs
White balance options: Auto, daylight, cloudy, tungsten, fluorescent, fluorescent H
Shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/2000 second
Evaluative linked to focus point
ISO settings: 50, 100, 200, 400 and Auto (50-150)
Photo Effects: Vivid, Neutral, Low Sharpening, Sepia, B&W
Built-in flash with Auto, Red-eye reduction auto, Forced on, Red-eye on, forced off and slow-synchro
2x-10x enlarged playback function with scrolling
Direct Print to the CP-100 and CP-10 printers
CompactFlash Type I storage
USB connectivity
Powered by standard AA type batteries
Optional wide angle, telephoto and closeup lenses
Small (4.3 x 2.3 x 1.4 in.) and lightweight (6.2 oz)

Canon PowerShot A60 Digital Camera Review

2006-02-20T19:49:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot A60 2MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom

The 2-megapixel PowerShot A60 (and the physically identical 3-megapixel Powershot A70) incorporates numerous high-end features including a 3x optical zoom lens, 5-point AiAF autofocus system, enhanced Movie Mode with Sound for clips up to 3-minutes, close focus to 2-inches and a full range of exposure modes including Program, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Manual and several pre-programmed Scene modes. The A70 (and A60) is compatible with the optional WP-DC700 Waterproof Housing good to depths of 130 feet, as well as supplementary wide-angle, telephoto and macro converters for added flexibility. Connect the Powershot A70 (or A60) directly to a Canon Card Photo Printer CP-100, CP-200, CP-300 or letter-size S820D, S830D, and S530D photo printers and make prints without the need of a computer.

Canon's proprietary image processor, called DIGIC, was developed specifically for use with its line of digital cameras and combines the jobs of image processing and camera function control into one chip. It handles nearly every digital camera function including JPEG compression/expansion; memory card control; LCD/Video control and processing; gain control (control of CCD signal amplification); Auto Exposure; Auto Focus; Auto White Balance control and most other functions of the camera. The result is a camera that offers faster and more powerful AF, faster image processing, longer battery life, and the ability to record up to 30 seconds of VGA resolution or up to 3 minutes of 320x240 resolution full motion video with sound.

Powershot A60 Features

2 Megapixel CCD imager for up to 1600x1200 pixel images
3x optical 35-105mm f/2.8-4.8 zoom, 2.5x digital zoom
1.5" color LCD with up to 10x playback zoom
Compact and durable body with an aluminum clad front
Advanced TTL AiAF five-point autofocus system
Program AE, Shutter-speed priority, Aperture priority and Manual modes
Movie mode w/sound, 320x240 to 3 minutes
2.2fps Continuous exposure mode
Evaluative metering on focus point, Center-weighted or Spot
Stitch Assist mode for perfect panoramas
Exposure compensation: +/-2EV in 1/3-step increments
White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
Photo Effects: Low Sharpening, Vivid Color, Neutral, Sepia and B&W
Low-light focus assist illuminator
Shutter speeds of 15 seconds to 1/2000 second
Selectable ISO settings from 50 to 400
Voice memo (up to 60 secs) can be attached to images
Builtin microphone and speaker
Powered by standard AA type batteries
Direct print to Canon CP-100, S820D, S830D, and S530D photo printers
USB connectivity for PC and Mac
Optional WP-DC700 Waterproof Case

Canon PowerShot A40 Digital Camera Review

2006-02-20T19:40:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot A40 2MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

The PowerShot A40 has a 2.0 megapixel CCD sensor and incorporates a 3x optical zoom lens and offers features and image quality normally found in more expensive models, such as movie mode (with sound); manual exposure; spot metering; selectable ISO settings; built-in flash with 5 modes and magnified playback up to 10x for convenient image review.

The A40 also includes several new features not found on previous mid-range PowerShot camera models including a 3-point AiAF system with single-point center focus and focus lock; a wider shutter speed range of 15 seconds to 1/1500 second; Evaluative and Spot Metering; ISO ranges including 50/100/200/400 and Auto; Movie mode (with sound); Photo Effect mode; 2x-10x enlarged playback function with scrolling; and Direct Print capabilities with Canon's new CP-100 and CP-10 dye-sub printers.

The PowerShot A40 camera is equipped with a 5.4-16.2mm f/2.8-4.8 (equivalent to 35-105mm in 35mm format) 3x zoom lens which is ideal for a wide range of picture- taking situations from landscapes to portraits. The all-glass lens is designed using 9 elements in 7 groups, including one highly-refractive, glass-molded aspherical element. The aspherical element effectively suppresses distortion and provides high resolution.

PowerShot A40 Features

2.1 Megapixel CCD for images up to 1600 x 1200 pixels.
3x (35-105mm) F2.8 optical zoom lens, 2x digital zoom
1.5-inch TFT color LCD, approx. 120,000 pixels
3-point AiAF system with single-point center focus and focus lock
Low-light focus assist illuminator Exposure modes: Auto, Program, Manual, Stitch Assist, Movie
Motion video w/audio @ 20fps, 320x240 10 secs or 160x120 30 secs
White balance options: Auto, daylight, cloudy, tungsten, fluorescent, fluorescent H
Shutter speeds from 15 seconds to 1/1500 second
Evaluative and Spot Metering
ISO settings: 50, 100, 200, 400 and Auto (50-150)
Photo Effects: Vivid, Neutral, Low Sharpening, Sepia, B&W
built in flash with Auto, Red-eye reduction auto, Forced on, Red-eye on, forced off and slow-synchro
2x-10x enlarged playback function with scrolling
Direct Print to the CP-100 and CP-10 printers
CompactFlash Type I storage
USB connectivity
NTSC or PAL video output
Powered by standard AA type batteries
Optional wide angle, telephoto and closeup lenses
Small (4.3 x 2.8 x 1.5 in.) and lightweight (8.8 oz)

Canon PowerShot A20 Digital Camera Review

2006-02-20T19:24:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot A20 2MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom.

A new digital signal processing IC in the PowerShot A20 camera enables high-speed image processing and rapid data transfer through the cameras' USB interface. The PowerShot A20 takes advantage of this feature by offering a Direct Print mode that enables users to print hard-copy images using Canon's new CP-10 printer. The CP-10 makes printing from digital files simple and fun by allowing users to control all print settings directly from the camera's LCD monitor. Printer data is then transferred to the CP-10 directly through a dedicated interface cable.

Bundled with a comprehensive suite of programs enabling image management, editing, compositing and printing, the PowerShot A10 and A20 come with Apple QuickTime 4.1, Canon RemoteCapture 1.3, and PhotoStitch 3.1 for both Macintosh and Windows, as well as Canon ZoomBrowser EX 2.6, PhotoRecord 1.2 and WIA and TWAIN drivers for Windows, plus ImageBrowser 1.6 and a Photoshop-compatible plug-in for the Mac. Features integrated in both ZoomBrowser EX 2.6 and ImageBrowser 1.6 include TimeTunnel and SlideShowMaker. When using ZoomBrowser EX 2.6 or ImageBrowser 1.6, users can take advantage of new and improved features for auto layout printing, self-running full-screen slide shows, and automated preparation of images for use as e-mail attachments.

Conclusion - Pros

Good resolution, fairly sharp images with better-than-most colour Virtually no chromatic
berrations
White balance works well, individual presets are good
Good build quality, despite its plastic case
Good ergonmics, excellent for novice user
Very quick operation, good buffering excellent start-up and shot-to-shot times
Lens thread option
Good range of accessories
Automatic lens cover
Sharp, bright, LCD
Stitch assist mode
Takes standard AA batteries (can be seen as pro or con)
USB connectivity
Fairly good value for money

Conclusion - Cons

"Flat" images do require digital darkroom work (a contrast setting would have been useful)
Average macro ability
Not supplied with rechargeable batteries (again, pro or con)
No movie mode
No support for CF Type II (Microdrive)
No manual features (though we'd not really expect any on an entry level digital camera)
LCD would have gained from an anti-reflective coating (as per IXUS 300)
AF assist lamp isn't as effective as it should be (low light focusing is poor)
Flash doesn't have the power or the cover
Plastic tripod mount
Auto White balance doesn't work well in artificial light

Canon EOS D30 Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-20T19:09:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS D30 3MP Digital SLR Camera

Product Features

Compatible with all Canon EX-series Speedlite flashes
Included 16 MB CompactFlash memory card holds 5 images at default resolution
Connects with Macs and PCs via USB port; uses BP-511 lithium ion battery, included
3.3 megapixel sensor creates 2,160 x 1,440 pixel images for prints at 8 x 10 inches and beyond
Compatible with all Canon EF lenses

Product Description

The introduction of the D30 also marks the first use of a CMOS sensor in a multimegapixel digital camera. Because CMOS sensors are less expensive, use less power, and are easier to manufacture than the traditional CCD sensors found on most cameras, there are high hopes that CMOS will be the primary sensor technology for the super-high resolution digital cameras of tomorrow. Until now, however, CMOS sensors have offered inferior results when compared to CCD, so they've been found primarily in entry-level and toy digital cameras. Canon seems to have solved the image-quality problem by custom designing the CMOS chip in the D30, and the company claims that their sensor offers better performance than most CCD sensors.

Images are stored on Type I or Type II CompactFlash cards, including the IBM Microdrive. By default, files are recorded in JPEG format, though there are also settings for TIFF and RAW recording. TIFF is the most common lossless recording format, and TIFF images can be viewed and edited with virtually any photo editing software. TIFF files provide the highest-quality images, but at a price: a single D30 image occupies nearly 10 MB of memory. RAW, in contrast, is a newer format that's not recognized by as many photo-editing software packages, though Canon provides a plug-in to let Adobe Photoshop users directly import RAW files, and also includes software that lets you convert RAW files to TIFF files on your computer. Like TIFF, RAW is a lossless format, yet RAW files are only about one-third the size of TIFFs. Because the RAW image comes directly from the sensor and has received less in-camera processing than other file formats, it also offers experienced users more image-correction options.

A final note about the EOS D30. The CMOS sensor is smaller than a 35mm negative, which means that when you take a picture, the focal length of the lens you are using is greater. For example, if you took a picture using a lens with a 28mm focal length, the actual focal length would be 1.6x greater, or 45mm. If you're currently shooting with a Canon SLR, this makes your zoom lenses even more powerful, but it also means that you'll need to pick up a wide-angle lens or wide-angle converter to regain the range of focal lengths you have with film. --Michael Lewis and Shane Burnett

Pros:

Compatible with all Canon EOS equipment.
Features RAW mode for ultimate photographic control.
SLR flexibility and control.

Cons:

Expensive.
Focal length adjustment makes wide-angle shooting difficult.
More memory is the first accessory you'll need to buy.

Canon Digital Rebel XT Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-20T18:42:00.000-08:00

Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 Lens

Product Features

DIGIC II Image Processor provides fast, accurate image processing; captures images at a rate of up to 3 frames per second
Fast start-up time--.2 seconds
Powered by rechargeable Lithium-ion battery (included, with charger)
8.0-megapixel CMOS sensor captures enough detail for photo-quality 16 x 22-inch prints
Includes Canon's EF-S 18-55mm, f3.5-5.6 zoom lens

Product Description

From the Manufacturer
The Canon EOS Digital Rebel camera now has a new, faster, even smaller big brother. Sibling rivalries aside, the 8.0-megapixel Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT SLR adds resolution, speed, extra creative control, and enhanced comfort in the hand to one of the smallest and lightest digital cameras in its class. Even with its advancements in ergonomic design and technology, this easy-to-use EOS digital camera is compatible with all of Canon's EF lenses, including the EF-S lenses.

Rebel Without a Choice No More
The EOS Digital Rebel XT camera takes its place alongside the original 6.3-megapixel EOS Digital Rebel camera that first placed an affordable, high-resolution digital SLR into the hands of Canon consumers. The EOS Digital Rebel XT model is offered in two kit configurations: with Canon's high-quality EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-f5.6 zoom lens and as a body only

While many of the feature advancements and innovations on the new EOS Digital Rebel XT digital camera are inherited from Canon's EOS 20D "prosumer" SLR, the two cameras' most striking technological similarities are their use of Canon's newly developed large-single-plate, high-sensitivity, high-resolution color CMOS imaging sensor technology. While the size of the APS-C CMOS sensor on the EOS Digital Rebel XT SLR is fractionally smaller than the APS-C CMOS sensor on the EOS 20D camera (22.2 x 14.8 millimeters versus 22.5 x 15.0 millimeters, respectively) accounting in part for the cameras' 8.0- vs. 8.2-megapixel resolution rating, individual pixel dimensions are identical, and they both provide the same effective angle of view, equivalent to 1.6x the normal EF lens focal length.

The Rebel XT's image sensor has the same 3:2 ratio as film cameras, creating an effective angle of view that is 1.6 times the normal EF lens's focal length

There are, of course, some very real differences between the EOS Digital Rebel XT digital camera and the more advanced EOS 20D. While the 20D SLR includes performance features such as faster continuous shooting speed (5 frames per second [fps] vs. 3 fps) with larger burst capability (23 frames vs. 14 frames) and custom function settings (18 vs. 9) that more than justify its heftier price tag, this new Rebel XT model was created for those dedicated SLR users who are migrating to digital for the first time and don't wish to give up the flexibility an SLR system offers.

Autofocus Made Easy
Utilizing the same 7-point autofocus system as the EOS Digital Rebel camera, the new EOS Digital Rebel XT SLR is capable of analyzing where a subject is--even when it is off center--and almost immediately bringing it into focus. It can also analyze subject movement and automatically select locking or tracking AF modes as needed. These features simplify the camera's operation and optimize its performance. The Digital Rebel XT allows users to select locking or tacking AF modes independently, adding a new dimension of creative control.

Choose a single point of focus or predictive autofocus, or direct the camera to make the determination using its 7-point AF system

Finer Photos Faster
The new EOS Digital Rebel XT digital camera can shoot up to 14 consecutive large/fine (8.0-megapixel) JPEGs, five RAW files, or four RAW + large/fine JPEGs at a rate of up to 3 fps. The EOS Digital Rebel camera's smaller buffer permits bursts of only four large/fine (6.3-megapixel) JPEG or RAW frames at a rate of up to 2.5 fps.

While reprising the Digital Rebel SLR's ISO range of 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1600, Canon raised the Auto ISO setting on the Digital Rebel XT model to 400 help improve image quality, reduce camera shake, and brighten the scene behind the subject when taking a flash photo. The new Digital Rebel XT camera also offers 12 exposure modes that are user selectable at the turn of a conveniently placed dial. The exposure modes--Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, Flash Off, Program AE, Shutter Speed-Priority AE, Aperture-Priority AE, Manual, and Auto Depth-of-Field AE--take into account virtually all shooting conditions and preferences.

In addition to its lossless compression 8.0-megapixel RAW image file option, the Rebel XT Digital SLR offers users the option of shooting in a range of sizes and quality JPEG settings from large (8.0-megapixel) and medium (4.15-megapixel) to small (2.0-megapixel). Within each resolution option, the user may also select quality settings: large/fine, large/normal, medium/fine, medium/normal, small/fine, and small/normal.

RAW Power
What's more, while the original Digital Rebel camera required dedicated software to extract embedded medium/fine resolution JPEGs from the larger, uncompressed RAW image file, the new Rebel XT model saves RAW and large/fine resolution images as separate files on the CompactFlash card. The user also has the option of selecting RAW (8.0-megapixel) files only, saving valuable space on the CF card. As with the EOS 20D, the Digital Rebel XT camera's RAW files are denoted by the CR2 extension.

Creative Control
Among the new features found on the EOS Digital Rebel XT camera are user-selectable metering and AF modes, flash exposure compensation control, improved E-TTL II evaluative flash metering, and, for the first time in this product category, custom function control. The Digital Rebel XT SLR even offers a monochrome mode for consumers who enjoy the subtleties and shadings that only black-and-white images offer.

The Rebel XT camera incorporates nine of the Custom Functions previously found on the EOS 20D model. Designed to fine-tune camera operation according to personal preferences, the custom functions offer users a set of programming options for the SET button/cross keys, as well as control over long exposure noise reduction, flash sync speed in AV mode, AF start from the shutter button or AE lock button, AF assist beam, mirror lockup, E-TTL II metering patterns, and shutter curtain sync.

All This and DIGIC II
Canon's newest and most powerful SLR imaging engine, DIGIC II, provides high precision and high speed, natural color reproduction including high saturation, bright subjects, improved auto white balance, and increased white balance correction control and white balance bracketing over the original Digital Rebel camera.

The white balance correction control is a digital color filter that works like a light-balancing filter or a color-compensating filter. Both the blue/amber bias and the magenta/green bias can be adjusted to +/- 9 levels. While the blue/amber bias adjustment is standard on the original Digital Rebel model, the Rebel XT camera's additional magenta/green bias adjustment provides increased color compensation from the earlier model

The Rebel XT SLR's white balance bracketing mode enables the camera to automatically take three images for every shot snapped, each with a different bias setting. The user can then select the best shot and discard the other two. White balance bracketing can also be used in combination with white balance correction. The benefit of all this white balance wizardry can be found in the photographs with colors captured accurately and precisely under a wide range of conditions.

In addition to the legion of image-quality improvements, DIGIC II speeds up the camera's performance from startup, which is 10 times faster on the EOS Digital Rebel XT model (0.2 seconds) than it is on the EOS Digital Rebel with the original iteration of DIGIC (2 seconds).

The XT's DIGIC II image processor ensures natural colors, accurate white balance, and speedy write times

Another feature improved by the presence of DIGIC II is the speed of the direct printing function, which is PictBridge compatible. DIGIC II also produces faster startup times, faster CompactFlash card writing speed, and approximately 10x faster data transfer speeds thanks to the processor's new USB 2.0 high-speed interface. As an added bonus, the DIGIC II chip is so efficient, it actually reduces the EOS Digital Rebel XT camera's power consumption (and extends battery life) by approximately 35 percent. Indeed, this new Rebel XT camera is so energy efficient, it is powered by the same lighter-weight used by the PowerShot S60 (as opposed to the larger BP-511A battery pack used by the original Digital Rebel model).

E-TTL II: Exposure Control in a Flash
The new Rebel XT camera also features the next step in the evolution of evaluative, through-the-lens exposure control, E-TTL II. Though compatible with all Canon EX-series Speedlites, this smarter new E-TTL II system helps ensure that, even in situations with highly reflective subjects or backgrounds or when shooting in most other similarly difficult lighting situations, the image will be optimally exposed.

The E-TTL II system compares the ambient light with the reflected pre-flash off the subject reported in all 35 metering zones and selects the areas with a small difference to be weighted for flash exposure calculation. This system also helps eliminate or underweight areas with large differences, recognizing them as an extremely reflective object in the background or a highly reflective subject.

Select 35-zone AF point evaluative metering, partial metering at the center of the image, or center-weighted averaged metering

Bundled Software
Both the Rebel XT Camera and lens kit and the body-only kit are shipped with three software discs, including EOS Digital Solutions Disc 10 featuring ZoomBrowser EX, ImageBrowser, and ArcSoft PhotoStudio together with other utilities; another disc containing Digital Photo Professional 1.6 for RAW file conversions; and a third disc containing PDF versions of the instruction manuals for each application.

Canon EOS Digital Rebel Camera Review

2006-02-20T18:27:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS 6.3MP Digital Rebel Camera with 18-55mm Lens.

The EOS Digital Rebel incorporates a large-area 6.3 megapixel CMOS sensor with Canon's exclusive DIGIC Image Processor for maximum camera performance as well as direct connectivity to several Canon Bubble Jet Direct printers and Card Photo Printers. Advanced camera features include a very fast, wide area 7-point autofocus system for precise focusing; 2.5 frames per second drive speed in 4-frame bursts, JPEG or simultaneous RAW + JPEG capture settings; an ISO range of 100—1600; manual white balance mode; selectable color space options including Adobe RGB and sRGB; a scrollable 10x zoom playback mode; and a Plug and Play USB interface.

The EOS Digital Rebel is compatible with more than 50 Canon EF-series lenses including the new EF-S lenses. The advanced AF system's 7 focusing points are conveniently superimposed on the viewfinder, cover a wide area for superb precision, and are manually selectable for a high degree of control. Ideal focus is achieved whether camera orientation is vertical or horizontal, with moving, still or off-center subjects, and even in low light/low contrast situations. An Intelligent Orientation Sensor to detect whether the camera is positioned horizontally or vertically and uses that information to improve autofocus and exposure metering accuracy and enables the camera to automatically rotate vertical format images during playback.

The Digital Rebel's shutter speeds range from 1/4,000 of a second to 30 seconds plus Bulb, while a built-in motor drive enables the camera to capture 2.5 frames per second in continuous shooting mode for bursts of up to four shots. There are 12 shooting modes including Program AE, Shutter-priority AE, Aperture-priority AE, Auto Depth-of-Field AE and Manual as well as Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Action, Night Scene and Flash Off.

Canon's exclusive 35-zone Evaluative metering links to the active focusing point and is the default metering pattern in AE modes, while center-weighted average metering is automatically selected in Manual mode. Central-area partial metering (measuring 9.5% of the picture area) is available on demand in Program AE, Shutter-priority AE, Aperture-priority AE, Auto Depth-of-Field AE and Manual.

EOS Digital Rebel Features:

Canon EF lens mount, compatible with all Canon EF including EF-S lenses
6.3 megapixel (effective) CMOS image sensor, RGB primary filter
3072 x 2048 pixel 24-bit JPEG and 36-bit RAW file formats. RAW files include an embedded JPEG that is quickly extracted with the supplied software
Fast, Wide-area TTL AF with 7 focusing points, manual or auto selectable.
One shot AF, AI Servo AF with focus prediction, AI Focus AF, and manual focus modes.
Canon DIGIC image processor speeds up image processing, camera functions and improves image quality
Full range of exposure modes: Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Depth-of-Field AE, Programmed AE with modes for Landscape, Macro, Night Scene, Portrait, and Sports, and full Manual
35-zone TTL metering, Evaluative (linked to all focusing points), Center weighted average, or 9.5% central-area spot metering
White Balance: Auto, six presets and Manual color temperature
Continuous Drive mode: 4 frames at 2.5 fps (1/250 second or faster)
Shutter speeds: 30 to 1/4,000 seconds, plus Bulb
Eye level TTL viewfinder with diopter adjustment, illuminated AF points, depth-of-field preview and detailed information display.
Auto exposure bracketing: -/+2 EV in 1/2 EV or 1/3 EV increments
1.8 inch, color TFT LCD, 118,000 pixels, 5 levels of brightness
Playback image zoom 1.5x–10x in 5 steps with scrolling
ISO sensitivity range: 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1,600
Built-in E-TTL popup flash with red-eye reduction.
Hot shoe for Canon EX Speedlites
CompactFlash Type II card slot, Microdrive & FAT-32 compatible
I/O ports: USB, Video Out (NTSC or PAL), N3 remote control socket
High capacity Li-ion rechargeable battery and compact rapid charger included
Direct Print to Canon CP-100/200/300, Bubble Jet Direct and PictBridge compatible printers
Optional BG-E1 Battery Grip holds two BP-511 battery packs and adds vertical grip, shutter release and controls

Canon EOS D60 Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-20T18:17:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS D60 6.3MP Digital SLR Camera

The EOS D60 sports a new and proprietary 6.3 megapixel (effective), single-plate CMOS sensor with 3072 x 2048 square pixels, 12-bit analog-to-digital conversion and an on- chip RGB primary color filter array. The sensor is the same size as the EOS D30's at 15.1 x 22.7mm, resulting in a focal length conversion factor of 1.6x. It records images in any one of six JPEG settings or uncompressed RAW. The RAW files contain an embedded 2048 x 1360 JPEG image that can be extracted with the supplied driver software, making them ideal for photographers who need to view or transmit images quickly but need to retain maximum image quality for future editing.

The D60's auto focusing system is three times more sensitive in low light than the EOS D30's (EV 0.5 vs. EV 2.0). At the same time, the built-in AF assist beam is more effective than it was before. These changes result in significantly improved focus performance. Additionally, in response to D30 user feedback, active focusing points are now illuminated in red directly on the focusing screen, making it easier to confirm focusing point selection and AF completion. Other improvements include an illuminated LCD data panel on top of the camera, making it simpler to view and change camera settings in low light; a brighter LCD monitor for easier viewing of menus and recorded images in bright light; new custom functions to tailor the camera's operation for individual preferences; and a new in-camera setting that allows photographers to store up to 3 sets of Shooting Parameters including contrast, saturation, sharpness and color tone.

EOS D60 Features

Lightest digital Single Lens Reflex body available. Polycarbonate exterior with a stainless steel inner chassis. Canon EOS (EF) lens mount with 1.6x focal magnifier
Eyelevel TTL viewfinder with diopter adjustment, depth-of-field preview and detailed information status display. The AF focus points are illuminated when active. The focusing screen is fixed
6.3 megapixel (effective), single-plate CMOS sensor, 3072 x 2048 square pixels
3072 x 2048, 2048 x 1360 and 1536 x 1024 24-bit JPEG and 3072 x 2048 36-bit RAW file formats. RAW files include an embedded 2048 x 1360 JPEG that is quickly extracted with the supplied software
12-bit A/D conversion, new image processing system no longer requires a special Noise Reduction mode, it's now automatic and very fast
Full range of exposure modes: Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Depth-of-Field AE, Programmed AE with modes for Landscape, Macro, Night Scene, Portrait, and Sports, and full Manual
35-zone TTL metering, Evaluative (linked to all focusing points), Center weighted average, or 9.5% central-area spot metering
White Balance: Auto, five presets, and Custom (reads in from captured image)
Continuous Drive mode captures up to 8 Large/Fine or 17 Large/Normal images at up to 3 fps (1/250 second or faster shutter)
Shutter speeds: 30 to 1/4,000 seconds, plus Bulb
Exposure compensation: -/+2 EV in 1/2 EV or 1/3 EV increments in all exposure modes
Auto exposure bracketing: -/+2 EV in 1/2 EV or 1/3 EV increments in all autoexposure modes
TTL AF with 3 focusing points, manual or auto selectable. One shot AF, AI Servo AF with focus prediction, AI Focus AF, and manual focus. Working range is EV 0.5 to 18 at ISO 100. Low-light focus assist illuminator built-in or can use AF assist on Canon EX Speedlights.
Improved (brighter) 1.8 inch, color TFT LCD, 114,000 pixel resolution
ISO sensitivity range: 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1,000
Built-in E-TTL popup flash with red-eye reduction. Guide Number is 12/39 at ISO 100, m/ft w/18mm lens coverage. Hot shoe for Canon EX Speedlites and a standard PC flash sync connector
Flash exposure compensation of +/- 2 stops in 1/2-stop increments. Flash exposure lock function (FEL). First and second curtain slow-sync.
CompactFlash Type II memory card slot, Microdrive compatible
I/O ports: USB (TWAIN driver for PC and Photoshop plugin for Macintosh), Video Out with selectable NTSC or PAL timing, PC type flash sync, N3 remote control socket
Power supplied by included BP-511 high capacity lithium rechargeable battery pack. Good for approx 520 shots. Dual battery rapid charger included
Optional BG-ED3 Battery Grip holds two BP-511 battery packs and adds vertical grip, shutter release and controls

Canon EOS 20D Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-20T18:06:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS 20D 8.2MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens.

Designed for advanced amateurs, photojournalists, wedding photographers and professionals, the EOS 20D digital SLR combines speed, image quality and ruggedness with compact size and light weight to deliver the highest performance in its class. The EOS 20D has a new APS-C (15.0 x 22.5 mm) 8.2 megapixel CMOS image sensor designed and manufactured by Canon. It is the first mid-range digital SLR to offer high-speed continuous shooting of five frames-per-second with a burst of 23 frames at highest JPEG resolution. Very robust - the camera starts up in 0.2-second and has a shutter release time lag of only 65 milliseconds.

The all-new 9-point AF unit with high-precision cross-type sensor raises the bar on speed, accuracy and precision in mid-range SLRs. The new AF system has one full stop better low- light performance than its EOS 10D predecessor. The new E-TTL II autoflash metering system, inherited from Canon’s EOS-1D Mark II professional model, takes into account the distance, reflectance and position of the subject for highly stable, accurate and intelligent exposure calculations.

The EOS 20D digital SLR is both smaller and lighter than the 10D model. The 20D camera is about 3.6 ounces lighter and Canon reduced the width, height and depth by 5.7, 2 and 3.5 mm, respectively. The shutter unit, mirror box, main mirror, pentaprism, focusing screen and viewfinder optical unit have all become smaller as they were optimized for the APS-C sensor. The 20D digital SLR has nearly 100 fewer parts than the 10D model. The new camera retains the rugged stainless steel chassis and magnesium alloy body covers of its predecessor for outstanding durability.

EOS 20D Major Features

Lightweight and durable magnesium alloy body
Canon EOS (EF/EF-S) lens mount, 1.6x focal magnifier
New 8-megapixel, CMOS image sensor, low-noise / wide dynamic range
Recording choice of 6 levels of JPEG, CR2 RAW, or RAW plus JPEG (choice of 6 different levels of JPEG)
All-new 9-point AF unit with high precision cross-type center sensor has one full stop better low-light performance than the EOS 10D
Ultra-fast start-up time of 0.2 seconds, only 65ms shutter lag time
Adobe RGB and sRGB color space selection
New high-speed mirror drive normally found only in pro-level models allows a major reduction in viewfinder blackout time
Processing parameters include 2 presets, 3 custom sets, adjustable for contrast, sharpness, saturation and color tone, and the new monochrome mode which includes built-in digital filtration for yellow, orange, red and green, and print toning in sepia, blue, purple and green.
12 shooting modes, seven Basic Zone modes (Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-Up, Sports, Night Portrait and Flash Off) and five Creative Zone modes (Standard Program AE, Shutter-Priority AE, Aperture-Priority AE, Manual and Depth-Of-Field AE)
35-zone TTL metering, Evaluative (linked to all focusing points), Center-weighted average, or 9.5% central-area spot metering
White Balance: Auto, six presets and Manual color temperature (2800-10,000°K in 100° increments) and can be corrected for blue, amber, magenta or green.
Continuous mode capture: 5fps up to 23 frames (6 frames in RAW mode)
Shutter speeds: 30 to 1/8,000 seconds, 1/250 sec. flash sync
Eye level TTL viewfinder with diopter adjustment, illuminated AF points, depth-of-field preview and detailed information display.
AE bracketing and White balance bracketing
1.8 inch, color TFT LCD, 118,000 pixels, 5 levels of brightness
Playback histogram and up to 10x image zoom
ISO Range: 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1,600 (3200 with ISO speed extension)
18 Custom Functions with 50 settings available
Built-in E-TTL II popup flash with red-eye reduction.
Hot shoe for Canon EX Speedlites and standard PC flash sync connector
CompactFlash Type II card slot, Microdrive and FAT32 compatible
High-speed USB 2.0 interface for fast image downloads
Video Out with selectable NTSC or PAL timing
Powered by new BP-511A Li-ion battery pack with 25% more capacity. CG-580 rapid charger included
PictBridge, CP Direct and Bubblejet Direct printing
Optional BG-E2 Battery Grip doubles battery power and adds vertical grip, shutter release and controls

Canon EOS-10D 6.3MP Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-20T00:17:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS-10D 6.3MP Digital SLR Camera

The EOS 10D is the first digital SLR to offer Canon's exclusive DIGIC Image Processor for maximum camera performance as well as direct connectivity to several Canon Bubble Jet Direct printers and the CP-100 Card Photo Printer. The camera's body, constructed with rigid magnesium alloy covers, houses and protects a number of advanced camera features including a very fast, wide area 7-point autofocus system for precise focusing; 3 frames per second drive speed in 9-frame bursts in either JPEG or simultaneous RAW + JPEG capture settings; an extended ISO range of 100-3200; manual white balance mode; selectable color space options including Adobe RGB and sRGB; a scrollable 10x zoom playback mode; and a Plug and Play USB interface.

The EOS 10D supports EXIF 2.2, DPOF 1.1, FAT32, and Compact Flash Type I and II, and is completely compatible with all EF-series lenses. The EOS 10D incorporates a large-area 6.3 megapixel CMOS sensor designed, developed and manufactured entirely within Canon. This sensor has the same picture area and aspect ratio (3:2) as the EOS D60, but features superior image quality thanks to peripheral circuitry improvements and a refined manufacturing process. A new amplifier circuit boosts the S/N (signal to-noise) ratio to provide an extended sensitivity range from ISO 100 to 3200 and superior noise reduction at all ISO speed settings.

Canon's proprietary DIGIC image processor was developed specifically for use with its line of digital cameras and combines the jobs of image processing and camera function control into one chip. DIGIC (short for Digital Imaging Integrated Circuit) is much faster at image processing than a general purpose CPU. This extra speed makes it possible to incorporate higher quality signal processing algorithms than conventional digital cameras, improve the buffer performance and consumes less battery power. And because it was specifically designed for use in a digital camera, it is also capable of handling nearly every digital camera function including JPEG compression/expansion; memory card control; Auto Exposure; Auto White Balance control and most other camera functions. In the case of the EOS 10D, for example, the number of consecutive frames is 9, compared to 8 in the EOS D60 and the battery life lasts approximately 30 percent longer. These improvements were made possible by the DIGIC Image Processor, not by any improvements in the camera or batteries themselves.

The EOS 10D's advanced 7-point AF system is a major upgrade from the D60's 3-point system, and its speed is as fast or faster than the EOS Elan 7/7E's. The 7 focusing points are conveniently superimposed on the viewfinder, cover a wide area for superb precision, and are manually selectable for a high degree of control. Ideal focus is achieved whether camera orientation is vertical or horizontal, with moving, still or off-center subjects, and even in low light/low contrast situations.

The EOS 10D uses an Intelligent Orientation Sensor to detect whether the camera is positioned horizontally or vertically and uses that information to improve autofocus and exposure metering accuracy and enables the camera to automatically rotate vertical format images during playback. This rotation data is also added to the image file header so compatible software applications such as Canon's File Viewer Utility, ZoomBrowser EX and ImageBrowser read this data and automatically rotate thumbnail images during downloads to accelerate workflow.

EOS 10D Major Features

Magnesium alloy body with Canon EOS (EF) lens mount, 1.6x focal magnifier
6.3 megapixel (effective), single-plate CMOS image sensor
3072 x 2048, 2048 x 1360 and 1536 x 1024 24-bit JPEG and 3072 x 2048 36-bit RAW file formats. RAW files include an embedded JPEG (user selectable size and quality) that is quickly extracted with the supplied software
Fast, Wide-area TTL AF with 7 focusing points, manual or auto selectable.
One shot AF, AI Servo AF with focus prediction, AI Focus AF, and manual focus modes.
New Canon DIGIC image processor speeds up image processing, camera functions and improves image quality
Full range of exposure modes: Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Depth-of-Field AE, Programmed AE with modes for Landscape, Macro, Night Scene, Portrait, and Sports, and full Manual
35-zone TTL metering, Evaluative (linked to all focusing points), Center weighted average, or 9.5% central-area spot metering
White Balance: Auto, six presets and Manual color temperature (2800 to 10,000 degrees Kelvin in 100-degree increments).
White Balance Bracketing mode, three images at the same exposure level while shifting the white balance up to +/- 3 steps in 1-step increments
Continuous Drive mode captures up to 9 frames at 3 fps (1/250 second or faster)
Shutter speeds: 30 to 1/4,000 seconds, plus Bulb
Eye level TTL viewfinder with diopter adjustment, illuminated AF points, depth-of-field preview and detailed information display.
Exposure compensation: -/+2 EV in 1/2 EV or 1/3 EV increments in all exposure modes
Auto exposure bracketing: -/+2 EV in 1/2 EV or 1/3 EV increments in all auto exposure modes
Improved 1.8 inch, color TFT LCD, 118,000 pixels, 5 levels of brightness
Playback image zoom 1.5x - 10x in 5 steps with scrolling
ISO sensitivity range: 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1,600 (3200 with ISO speed extension)
Built-in E-TTL popup flash with red-eye reduction. Guide Number is 13/43 at ISO 100, m/ft w/18mm lens coverage. Hot shoe for Canon EX Speedlites and a standard PC flash sync connector
CompactFlash Type II memory card slot, Microdrive compatible
I/O ports: USB (TWAIN driver for PC and Photoshop plug in for Macintosh), Video Out with selectable NTSC or PAL timing, PC type flash sync, N3 remote control socket
Power supplied by included BP-511 high capacity lithium rechargeable battery pack. Good for approx 500-650 shots. BC-5L rapid charger included
Optional BG-ED3 Battery Grip holds two BP-511 battery packs and adds vertical grip, shutter release and controls

Canon EOS 5D 12.8MP Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-19T23:56:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS 5D 12.8MP Digital SLR Camera

The Canon EOS 5D digital SLR offers a full-frame CMOS sensor with 12.8 megapixels of resolution at an affordable price of $3,299 USD. It is the world’s smallest and lightest full-frame digital SLR and features Canon’s proprietary DIGIC II Image Processor allows users to shoot up to 3 frames per second; record up to 60 full-resolution JPEGs and 17 RAW images in a single burst. The camera includes a new 9-point AF system with six supplemental AF points for fast and precise focusing and a new 2.5-inch LCD/TFT screen with 230,000 pixels that’s viewable even at extreme angles.

Combining the high-end specifications of the EOS-1 Line and the operational ease of the EOS 20D, the EOS 5D is a premium digital SLR designed for a wide range of photographers. While a 35mm full-size image sensor is already available on the EOS-1Ds Mark II, many photographers wanted a DSLR with a full-frame sensor that was smaller, lighter and more affordable. The EOS 5D with its magnesium alloy body weighs in at just 28.6 ounces (810 grams).

The full-size sensor maximizes the performance of Canon EF lenses – even wide-angle lenses have the same look and feel they have with conventional SLR cameras, preserving their optical signatures. Imaging quality in the EOS 5D is enhanced with the addition of the DIGIC II image processor, which provides detailed and natural color reproduction and fast image processing, including an incredible burst performance of 60 Large/Fine JPEGs or 17 RAW images at 3 fps. DIGIC II also enhances start-up time on the EOS 5D DSLR, bringing it down to a lightning fast 0.2 seconds.

A new feature called Picture Styles combines processing parameters and color matrix settings into easy settings designed to obtain the desired effect, almost like choosing a type of film to obtain a specific result. For users who do not want to bother with post processing, there is the Picture Style called Standard which produces images that look crisp and vivid with the sharpness set to mid-scale and the color tone and saturation set to obtain vivid colors. The Faithful setting is the same as Digital Photo Professional’s Faithful, so when the subject is photographed under a color temperature of 5200K, the color is adjusted colorimetrically to match the subject’s color with no sharpness applied. Monochrome is the same as the EOS 20D camera’s monochrome setting and with User Defined, the user can create and save their own preferred settings.

The EOS 5D has a new nine point AF system with six Supplemental AF points, a new AF algorithm and a new AF circuitry. The new AF system improves subject detection and focusing precision at the center, the most frequently used area, and significantly enhances subject tracking performance. The nine AF points are concentrated at the center, but the extreme left and right points are located in the same positions as the corresponding AF points on the EOS-1Ds Mark II. The six invisible Supplemental AF points, grouped around the center of the image provide highly accurate focusing and do a great job of tracking the subject in the AI SERVO AF mode. In addition, three AF points on the EOS 5D work with f/2.8 or faster lenses for enhanced precision.

The EOS 5D has a solid, substantial and organic feel that complements its compact dimensions and relatively light weight. With the top, front and rear covers and battery grip made from light and highly durable magnesium alloy, this new model is truly a premium camera. The EOS 5D also has an improved grip and mode dial, a modified terminal cover and clearer rear controls. The pentaprism has an all-new shape necessitated by the full-frame sensor and all associated components such as the mirror, mirror box and shutter. Thanks to Canon design and manufacturing know-how along with having the low-pass filter integrated with the CMOS cover glass, the EOS 5D is unusually streamlined for a camera with a full-frame sensor.

Canon EOS-1D Mark II N Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-19T23:51:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS-1D Mark II N 8.2MP Digital SLR Camera

The EOS-1D Mark II N Professional Digital SLR preserves the speed, responsiveness, image quality and reliability of the popular EOS-1D Mark II while incorporating newly refined features that make the camera easier and more precise to use. Firing at the same 8.5 frames per second, the 1D Mark II N captures up to 48 full-resolution JPEG images in a burst. It employs the same large-plate 8.2-megapixel CMOS sensor as the 1D Mark II and adds a larger 2.5-inch, wide-angle view color LCD/TFT monitor for crisp image playback. Startup time on the new camera has also dropped to 0.2 seconds (from 0.3) with the help of Canon’s DIGIC II Image Processor.

The EOS-1D Mark II N camera shares with the EOS-1 series family its all-metal body and chassis and weather-resistant construction with its shutter durability-tested to 200,000 exposures. And perhaps best of all, the price of the new camera, $3,999, is actually $500 less than the initial price of its predecessor.

In addition to the 2.5-inch LCD wide-angle view display are several significant improvements in image playback. The user can have a magnified view from any selected AF point. Another new feature on the camera is magnified view during Quick Review. When an image is displayed on the LCD monitor immediately after capture, the user can immediately magnify the view to check focus right away. Other improved playback functions include a last displayed image remembered feature and a more complete INFO display which now shows file size and includes notations for monochrome (B/W) and color (R/G/B) when the RGB histogram is enabled.

Just like the 1D Mark II, the 1D Mark II N lets the user save the same image simultaneously in both the CompactFlash (CF) and SD memory card slots, a highly effective backup mechanism. Photographers can also record to slot one until full and then go to slot two automatically. With the RAW+JPEG mode, it’s also possible to save the RAW and JPEG images separately in each memory card. The RAW images can be saved in slot one and the JPEGs, in any of ten quality levels, in slot two, or vice versa.

In the analog era, photographers would select the brand of film that suited their own shooting style or the subject being photographed. In the digital era, they have to rely on the image quality features and settings provided by the camera manufacturer. Some users though have experienced confusion about what effects these settings would have on the image. To provide better clarification, a new feature called Picture Styles combines processing parameters and color matrix settings into easy settings designed to obtain the desired effect, almost like choosing a type of film to obtain a specific result.

Canon EOS-1D Mark Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-19T23:36:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS-1D Mark II 8.2MP Digital SLR Camera

The new Canon EOS-1D Mark II is the successor to the Canon EOS-1D which was announced and introduced at the end of 2001. This new generation of digital SLR almost doubles resolution with its new eight megapixel CMOS sensor, doubles the size of the continuous shooting buffer. Despite the advertised 8.5 fps the EOS-1D Mark II actually shoots at a maximum of 8.3 fps (the same as the EOS-1D).

The EOS-1D Mark II is also obviously Canon's answer to Nikon's fast shooting D2H announced last year, it does appear however as though Canon are raising the bar with resolution and one would hope we can expect similar low noise performance from its CMOS sensor as we have seen from the same technology in the EOS 10D.

Putting the additional resolution and buffer size to one side there are also a variety of improvements and changes compared to the EOS-1D, not least of which a new version of Canon's DIGIC image processor, an extension of selectable ISO sensitivity, support for Secure Digital as well as Compact Flash and the addition of a USB port (although only USB 1.1). The SD slot and USB connector are interesting additions as they may hint towards potential future add-ons for this camera such as a wireless kit (pure speculation on my part at this stage).

Conclusion - Pros

Excellent resolution, not just a step change from the EOS-1D but a leap
Switch from CCD to CMOS delivers very clean images with no pattern noise
Maintains EOS-1D's amazing 8.3 fps and increases buffer to 40 frames (JPEG)
Superbly well built, 'a solid block', fully environmentally sealed, totally robust
Very fast in use, ultra fast auto focus, extremely short shutter lag, although 0.8 sec startup
Separate tone / sharpness and color matrix control, all customizable
Wide range of ISO sensitivities, ISO 50 - 3200 (with 'ISO Expansion' enabled)
Two different types of white balance fine tuning (blue-amber & green-magenta)
Large clear viewfinder with 98% field of view and a very low blackout time
New brighter and sharper LCD monitor is a big improvement over EOS-1D / EOS-1Ds
Playback magnification up to 10x (the EOS-1D had none)
Excellent and supremely fast auto focus, 45 point AF and a large AF area for focus tracking
Very high speed continuous shooting (the fastest shooting D-SLR)
Very well implemented buffering system backed up by fast media throughput
Dual storage slots, well implemented 'backup' double-save mode, awkward to switch slots
Superb Secure Digital performance, over 6 MB/sec
Support for FAT32 storage devices (greater than 2 GB in size)
Proper RAW+JPEG with immediately selectable JPEG image size
Directly selectable JPEG image quality (compression ratio) per image size
Huge range of custom and personal functions, one of the most configurable cameras
Three types of bracketing: Exposure, Sensitivity (ISO), White Balance
Inbuilt portrait grip
Noise free very long exposures (ideal for very long exposure night shots)
Extremely flexible controls, lots of options for the photographer
Interchangeable focus screen
Firewire (IEEE 1394) and USB connectivity
Remote tethered capture software for studio work (included)
Voice annotation feature (built-in mic)
Battery / Double Charger and AC Adapter all included with camera
Value for money (considering what you get)

Conclusion - Cons

Startup delay - on a camera at this level we expect no startup delay
JPEG images appear a little soft, can be improved by increasing sharpness setting
Control system can be a little confusing at first, menu operation different to other D-SLR's
Confusing provision of both EVU and DPP
DPP moiré artifacts on resolution chart - Canon are investigating this
Awkward to switch media slot
No option to write different image formats to different media (eg. RAW->CF, JPEG->SD)
NiMH battery adds to camera's weight, still no use of Lithium-Ion or Lithium-Polymer
No GPS (serial) connection

Overall conclusion
The original EOS-1D was a very important camera for Canon, their first home grown professional digital SLR built to EOS-1V standards and carrying that all important '1' label (indicating the best in their range). As such it was a camera which made its way into the hands of some of the most hard working professional photographers in the world and is still seen at the side of high profile sporting events and firing off in the face of celebrities and politicians alike.

As a camera to be used by such photographers it was always going to be the hardest used and closest examined. Thankfully Canon has once more demonstrated that they gather all of this feedback and drive it into the development of the next model. The Mark II is a perfect example of evolution of technology (eight megapixel, CMOS, 40 frame buffer) and also correction of function and usage. It's amazing how many small things have been fixed, things that could only have come out of experience in the hands of dedicated professional photographers.

Canon EOS-1D Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-19T23:24:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS-1D 4.4MP Digital SLR Camera

Introduction
Canon's EOS-1D is the first professional digital SLR from Canon since the EOS-D2000 (introduced in March 1998 which was a collaborative effort with Kodak, also known as the Kodak DCS 520). Indeed, the EOS-1D is the first all Canon professional digital SLR. Canon themselves admit that after the EOS-D2000 they were caught dragging their heels somewhat when Nikon released the D1 but believe that they are coming back strong with the 4 megapixel 8 fps EOS-1D.

The EOS-1D is based on the excellent (and highly praised) EOS-1V professional film SLR. The 1D's body is almost identical to an EOS-1V with the additional powerdrive booster attached. The primary differences are the EOS-1D's battery and vertical grip have now become a moulded part of the camera body, and of course that the back of the camera hosts an LCD monitor with variety of 'digital' controls and buttons.

Canon EOS-1D major features summary Professional EOS Digital SLR

Magnesium body, environmentally sealed, based on EOS-1V
Integrated battery compartment / vertical hand grip
4.48 megapixel CCD sensor (primary colour filter)
Focal length multiplier: 1.3x
Output image size: 2464 x 1648 or 1232 x 824
JPEG (Fine/Normal), RAW (12-bit)
Simultaneous RAW+JPEG mode (saves RAW plus either Full size or Half size JPEG)
Maximum burst speed of 8 fps for up to 21 JPEG frames or 16 RAW frames
Option to also record a JPEG file when shooting RAW
ISO 200 - 1600 in 1/3 stop steps, ISO 100 or 3200 available from a custom function
SO sensitivity bracketing
Same 45-point AF as EOS-1V
Response time similar to the EOS-1V - 57 ms shutter release and 87 ms viewfinder blackout
Evaluative, Partial, Center-weighted, Spot and Multi-spot metering
Shutter speed range: Bulb, 30 - 1/16,000 sec (1/500 sec flash X-sync)
Aperture range: F91 - F1
Noise reduction can be enabled for exposures 1/15 sec or slower
EEE 1394 (Firewire) connectivity
CF Type I or II (inc. IBM Microdrive)
Hybrid Auto White balance combines external white balance sensor and main CCD
White balance bracketing
Up to three parameter sets: tone (gamma) curve, sharpening, JPEG compression ratio
Selectable 'colour matrix' settings define colour space (sRGB / Adobe RGB) and balance
21 custom functions, 25 personal functions, which can be stored into 'function groups'
Bracketing of exposure (shutter / aperture), white balance and ISO sensitivity
Voice annotation capability (built-in microphone) Illuminated status LCD's
Cropped viewfinder (to enable compatibility with EOS-1V focusing screens)
Supplied RAW conversion application (TWAIN), supplied remote capture software
Double battery charger

Summary of physical differences (1D vs. 1V )

OS-1D is slightly shorter (height) by approx. 10 mm, deeper (front to back) by approx. 6
mm and narrower (across the front) by approx. 6 mm than the EOS-1V
EOS-1D and 1V are virtually the same weight (both loaded with batteries)
EOS-1D eyecup protrudes further (set further away from the rear)
Battery compartment and vertical hand grip are integrated into camera body
EOS-1D has an additional assist button on the rear of the camera for the vertical grip
EOS-1D has a slightly larger Quick Control Dial
Power switch has been relocated to below Quick Control Dial
Obvious addition of LCD monitor, status panel and 'digital control' buttons
Top status LCD has been slightly redesigned
onnectors on left side of camera are under two rubber doors: digital, remote, PC terminal
EOS-1D has an external white balance sensor on the front, right of the camera

Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-19T23:03:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II 16.7MP Digital SLR Camera

Canon, a world leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces its new flagship camera: the 35mm full-frame 16.7 Megapixel EOS-1Ds Mark II Digital SLR. The camera is expected to appeal to professional studio and commercial photographers.

Featuring a full-frame 36 x 24mm 16.7 Megapixel CMOS sensor, the EOS-1Ds Mark II produces images with outstanding colour rendition and dynamic range. It has sufficient resolution to produce files which convert to 50MB uncompressed TIFF at 24 bit colour depth, now considered standard acceptable size by leading international photo agencies and stock libraries.

Replacing the award winning 11.1 Megapixel EOS-1Ds, the camera is powered by Canon’s second generation DIGIC II image processor and is capable of firing at 4 fps for bursts of up to 32 frames in JPEG, or 11 frames in RAW. An optional wireless adaptor (also released today) delivers high speed IEEE802.11b/g wireless LAN and 100 Megabit per second wired LAN support.

Besides the inherent advantages of digital, such as immediate turn-around and elimination of film costs, it is the flexibility of the EOS 35mm SLR format which Canon expects to appeal to many studio photographers. For the first time, medium format image quality combines with access to the world’s most extensive range of professional lenses, spanning from 14mm to 1200mm.

“The EOS-1Ds Mark II is a tremendous achievement, it represents the pinnacle of Canon’s digital camera technology,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “With its resolution, image quality, immediacy of wireless and the power and flexibility of SLR, the EOS-1Ds Mark II offers the first real digital alternative to medium format, which has so far been the choice for mainstream commercial studio and location work.”

Canon expects the camera to be adopted in areas such as fashion, car, calendar, advertising and architectural photography.

Key camera specifications include:

16.7 MP full frame 36 x 24mm CMOS sensor
0.3 second start up and 4fps performance
ISO 100-1600, expandable to L:50 and H:3200
Digital Photo Professional v1.5 RAW processing s/ware with support for sRGB, Adobe RGB and wide gamut RGB colour spaces plus various European, North American and Japanese standard CMYK separation simulations
Hi-Speed FireWire, & Video out i/face for complete connectivity
Dual high performance SD and CF/CF-II card slots (supports cards greater than 2GB)
Complete compatibility to all EF lenses & EX-series Speedlites
2.0” LCD screen with 230,000 pixels, 1.5-10x playback zoom
Simultaneous RAW & JPEG shooting
Battery life – approximately 1200 shots @ 20C, 800 at 0C – in accordance with CIPA testing standards

Canon EOS-1Ds Digital SLR Camera Review

2006-02-19T22:52:00.000-08:00

Canon EOS-1Ds 11.1MP Digital SLR Camera

Introduction
The EOS-1Ds is Canon's newest professional SLR. Based on the EOS-1D body the EOS-1Ds raises resolution to 11 megapixels, uses a CMOS sensor (just like the EOS-D30 and D60) and is the first Canon digital SLR with a sensor which captures a full 35 mm frame.

Last year Canon introduced the EOS-1D, it was the first professional digital SLR since the EOS-D2000 which was a collaboration with Kodak. The EOS-1D has a 4 megapixel sensor and can capture at an amazing 8 frames per second, clearly targeted at the sports photographer. The EOS-1Ds covers almost every other type of photography, from landscape to portrait, photo journalism to weddings. The ability to use 35 mm lenses at their designed focal length (field of view) combined with the high pixel count will be strong points for those film photographers who have hesitated on going the digital route because of these two issues. The 1Ds is capable of shooting at wider angle than any other digital SLR (at least until the actual release of Kodak's DCS-14n).

The EOS-1Ds body is based around the EOS-1V professional film SLR. From a size point of view the 1Ds body is almost identical to an EOS-1V with the additional powerdrive booster attached. The base of the camera contains the large battery pack and allows for the integration of a vertical (portrait) hand grip and control system. Build quality is superb, the entire body moulded from magnesium alloy with environmental seals around every compartment door, terminal, connector and button.

Canon EOS-1Ds major features summary

Professional EOS Digital SLR
Magnesium body, environmentally sealed, based on EOS-1V
Integrated battery compartment / vertical hand grip
11.4 megapixel CMOS sensor (primary colour filter)
Full frame sensor, no field of view crop / focal length multiplier
Output image size: 4064 x 2704 or 2032 x 1352
JPEG (Fine/Normal), RAW (12-bit)
Simultaneous RAW+JPEG mode (saves RAW plus either Full size or Half size JPEG)
Maximum burst speed of 3 fps for up to 10 JPEG frames or 10 RAW frames
Option to also record a JPEG file when shooting RAW
ISO 100 - 1250 in 1/3 stop steps, ISO 50 available from a custom function
SO sensitivity bracketing
Same 45-point AF as EOS-1V
Response time similar to the EOS-1V - 57 ms shutter release and 87 ms viewfinder blackout
Evaluative, Partial, Center-weighted, Spot and Multi-spot metering
Shutter speed range: Bulb, 30 - 1/8,000 sec (1/250 sec flash X-sync)
Aperture range: F91 - F1
Noise reduction can be enabled for exposures 1/15 sec or slower
IEEE 1394 (Firewire) connectivity
CF Type I or II (inc. IBM Microdrive)
Hybrid Auto White balance combines external white balance sensor and main sensor
White balance bracketing
Up to three parameter sets: tone (gamma) curve, sharpening, JPEG compression ratio
Selectable 'colour matrix' settings define colour space (sRGB / Adobe RGB) and balance
21 custom functions, 26 personal functions, which can be stored into 'function groups'
Bracketing of exposure (shutter / aperture), white balance and ISO sensitivity
Voice annotation capability (built-in microphone)
Illuminated status LCD's
Supplied RAW conversion application (File Viewer Utility)
Supplied remote capture (tethered operation) software
Double battery charger

New features / updates since the EOS-1D

Full-frame 11 megapixel CMOS sensor
Continuous shooting down to 3 fps, max 10 images
ISO range 100 - 1250, ISO 50 selectable from custom function
Noise reduction takes effect from 1 sec (1/15 sec for the EOS-1D)
Personal functions can be set via in-camera menu
JPEG compression now represented as numbers rather than a ruler
FAT32 filesystem support for Compact Flash cards greater than 2 GB
Playback magnification now available
Images can be tagged with a unique 'signature' for use with Data Verification Kit
Improved battery life (thanks to CMOS sensor)
Fastest shutter speed down to 1/8,000 sec (1/16,000 sec for the EOS-1D)
X-Sync speed down to 1/250 sec (1/500 sec for the EOS-1D)

Eleven megapixels
The EOS-1Ds features a full-frame 11 megapixel CMOS sensor. The sensor makes this camera the first Canon EF mount digital SLR without any field of view crop (focal length multiplier), that 16 - 35 mm lens will provide the exact same field of view on the EOS-1Ds as it would on an EOS-1V with film.

Interestingly despite the increase in resolution compared to the EOS-D60 the EOS-1Ds sensor has a larger pixel pitch because of its larger effective imaging area, this in theory will lead to more sensitivity, dynamic range and lower noise. Below you can see a comparison of the EOS-1Ds sensor beside that from the EOS-1D and EOS-D60. To the right is a shot 'down the neck' of the EOS-1Ds with the sensor exposed.

Canon Powershot SD200 Digital Elph Camera Review

2006-02-19T22:41:00.000-08:00

Canon Powershot SD200 3.2MP Digital Elph Camera with 3x Optical Zoom.

The 3.2-megapixel PowerShot SD200 Digital ELPH and 4.0-megapixel PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH cameras combine large 2.0-inch color LCD screens, cutting edge technology with UA Lens and Canon’s exclusive DIGIC II image processing technology into ultra compact 3.35 x 2.20 x 0.94 inch packages. The ultra slim PowerShot SD200 features a 35 - 105mm 3x optical zoom lens and a striking high-gloss stainless steel frame that fits comfortably in the palm of the hand with simplified controls that make it easy to operate.

Both cameras include an optical viewfinder, enabling the photographer to get the shot even in sunny situations. The SD200 and SD300 Digital ELPH cameras also feature a through the lens (TTL) 9-point AiAF autofocus and an Intelligent Orientation Sensor that provides the user with a horizontal image during playback, even if the picture was taken vertically. The autofocus system utilizes an AF-assist beam, which can be turned on and off in the menu settings.

PowerShot SD200 Features:

3.2 Megapixel CCD sensor for up to 2048 x 1536 pixel images
3x optical 35-105mm f/2.8-4.9 zoom
2.0" color LCD with up to 10x playback zoom
Ultra-compact and durable stainless steel body (3.4 x 2.1 x 0.83 in.)
Advanced TTL AiAF 9-point autofocus system with focus-assist lamp
Program AE automatic and Manual exposure modes
Movie mode w/sound 30/15fps 640x480/320x240 unlimited length
2.4fps Continuous exposure mode
Evaluative metering on focus point or Spot
Exposure compensation: +/-2EV in 1/3-step increments
White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
Photo Effects: Low Sharpening, Vivid Color, Neutral, Sepia and B&W
Shutter speeds of 15 seconds to 1/1500 second
Auto noise reduction with 1.3 sec or longer shutter speeds
Selectable ISO settings from 50 to 400
Voice memo (up to 60 secs) can be attached to images
Built-in microphone and speaker
Lithium rechargeable battery and charger included
Direct print and PictBridge Compliant
USB connectivity for PC and Mac
Secure Digital (SD) card storage

Canon PowerShot SD110 Digital ELPH Camera Review

2006-02-19T22:30:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot SD110 3MP Digital ELPH Camera with 2x Optical Zoom.

One of the smallest digital cameras to date with an optical zoom, the new Canon Powershot SD110 Digital ELPH maintains all of the features found on its predecessor, the SD100, including the use of ultra-compact SD memory cards, and adds a new Print/Share button that speeds and simplifies printing (to PictBrige and Direct Print compatible printers) and transferring images to your PC. Like the PowerShot SD100, the SD110 is the smallest and lightest of the Digital ELPH series. With its ultra-compact size and rugged stainless steel body, the SD110 represents the ultimate in portability, durability and elegance. And with its 3.2 megapixel resolution you can make photo-quality prints as large as 8 x 10 inches.

The SD110 is a pocket-sized digital photo powerhouse, measuring 3.3 x 2.2 x 0.9 in.(85x56x23.9mm) and weighing a mere 5.8 ounces without battery or SD card. It packs a 3.2 megapixel imager and a superb all-glass Canon 2x (35-70mm equivalent) optical zoom lens (with a cross-section smaller than a dime) and a close focusing capability of 3.9 inches in macro mode. The SD110 also features the same level of shooting options as the advanced PowerShot cameras and records high resolution 640 x 480 movies with sound up to 30 seconds and up to three minutes at lower 320 x 240 and 160 x 120 resolutions. The SD110 uses Canon's proprietary DIGIC Image Processor to achieve higher picture quality and improve existing camera features. In addition, the SD110 uses Canon's exclusive iSAPS (Intelligent Scene Analysis based on Photographic Space) technology to enhance the speed and performance of the camera's autofocus, auto exposure and auto white balance functions while a 9-point AiAF autofocus system makes focusing quick and easy, even with off-center subjects.

PowerShot SD110 Features:

3.2 Megapixel CCD sensor for up to 2048x1536 pixel images
2x optical 35-70mm f/2.8-3.9 zoom
1.5" color LCD with up to 10x playback zoom
Ultra-compact and durable stainless steel body (3.3 x 2.2 x 0.94 in.)
Advanced TTL AiAF 9-point autofocus system
Program AE automatic and Manual exposure modes
Movie mode w/sound 640x480 30 secs/320x240 3 minutes
2.5fps Continuous exposure mode
Evaluative metering on focus point or Spot
Stitch Assist mode for perfect panoramas
Exposure compensation: +/-2EV in 1/3-step increments
White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
Photo Effects: Low Sharpening, Vivid Color, Neutral, Sepia and B&W
Low-light focus assist illuminator
Shutter speeds of 15 seconds to 1/2000 second
Auto noise reduction with 1.3 sec or longer shutter speeds
Selectable ISO settings from 50 to 400
Voice memo (up to 60 secs) can be attached to images
Intelligent Orientation sensor
Built-in microphone and speaker
Lithium rechargeable battery and charger included
Direct print and PictBridge Compliant
All new Print/Share button
USB connectivity for PC and Mac
Secure Digital (SD) card storage
Optional Waterproof Case

Canon PowerShot SD100 Digital ELPH Camera Review

2006-02-19T22:17:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot SD100 3.2MP Digital ELPH Camera w/ 2x Optical Zoom.

The SD100 is 3.2 Megapixel camera with a 2X optical zoom lens. It's not the smallest camera anymore, but it's still very portable. How does it fare in our tests? Find out now!

The SD100 is known as the Digital IXUS II in some countries.

What's in the Box?

The PowerShot SD100 has a very good bundle. Inside the box, you'll find:

The 3.2 (effective) Mpixel Canon PowerShot SD100 camera
16MB Secure Digital card
NB-3L rechargeable Li-ion battery
Battery charger
Wrist strap
USB cable
A/V cable
CD-ROMs featuring Canon Digital Camera Solutions and ArcSoft Camera Suite
189 page camera manual + add'l software manual (both printed)

Canon includes a 16MB Secure Digital card with the camera. That's enough to get started with, but you'll want a bigger one right away. SD cards come as large as 512MB as of this writing. You can use MultiMediaCards as well, though they are not supported by Canon.

The SD100 uses a smaller, lower capacity battery than its predecessor (the S230). The NB-3L has 2.9 Wh of power, versus 3.1 Wh on the old NB-1LH battery.

Although this battery has less power, it actually lasts longer, thanks to better power management in the SD100. Canon estimates that you'll be able to take about 330 shots with 50% LCD usage, or spend 150 minutes in playback mode. That's up from 295 and 130 mins, respectively, on the S230.

Long time readers of this site know that I'm not a big fan of proprietary batteries, but it's unavoidable with these ultra-small cameras.