This review is a little different because it’s not about a single product, but a whole product line; the Canon PowerShot
line of digital cameras. As a photographer I get solicited for my advice quite often by friends and co-workers on what kind of digital camera to buy. Typically, they’re looking for a smaller “point & shoot” style cameras for vacations and whatnot; with budgets around $400 and less. I own such a camera, a Canon PowerShot A620.
In the past I’d usually ask what you intend to use the camera for primarily, and then find a handful of models from Canon, Nikon, and Fuji that I thought would best fit your needs. Then I’d leave it up to you to make your final decision on which to buy. Now, I’ll make it easier on you. If you were to ask me what kind of P&S digital camera you should get I’m going to recommend to you that you look at the cameras in the Canon PowerShot line. Is it because I’m Canon loyal? No, in fact my D-SLR is a Nikon. Just through my own experience with smaller digital cameras, and the feedback I’ve gotten from other’s I’ve recommended Canon PowerShots to, as well as other family members and friends who own them, Canon PowerShots are just that good. I personally have owned a Canon PowerShot A400, but have since sold it and upgraded to an A620. The combination of price, features, ease of use, and consistent quality is just unbeatable.
There are a number of different models to choose from in the Canon PowerShot series. It could be a little overwhelming just starting out. I’ll give you a quick rundown of the product line differences to help you narrow your search a bit further.
SD Series: These are the most “pocketable” of the PowerShot line. If size matters (smaller = good) then this is where you want to look. These are great for carrying in your purse or pocket for a night out with friends, or the quick shot in front of that one fountain, in that one park, in that one city. Zoom ranges for the SD cameras is usually 3x. With the lack of bulk, you’ll be giving up some manual controls on the camera. The cameras in the SD line are truly your “point and shoot” type cameras. If you’re looking for a camera you can eventually learn some photographic technique with, cameras in the SD line are probably not right for you.
A Series: The PowerShot “A” cameras are larger than the SD cameras, but could still be operated with one hand. Where with the SD cameras you’re paying for their convenient size, the A series you’re paying for availability of features. You’ll find the availability of a lot more manual controls on models in this line. Zoom ranges in the A series range from 3x to 6x. Some A series cameras still sport a viewfinder if you want to save batteries by not using the LCD. Speaking of LCDs, some A series are equipped with neat “Vari-Angle” LCDs. With such equipped models the LCD can be turned, twisted, and flipped for viewing at awkward angles or for protection when you’re not using the camera. I found this feature extremely handy while in Europe. My vantage point at Buckingham Palace during the Changing of the Guard was not that great, but with the Vari-Angle LCD I could reach out and see around the gate pillar that blocked my view and still capture some of the ceremony. I wouldn’t call most of the cameras in the A series “pocketable”. You’ll probably want a small camera bag to carry one around in. Some cameras in this line also allow for the addition of accessories like the use of filters, or wide and telephoto lenses. If you want a camera that you will allow you to explore with a little more creative control I highly recommend you check out the PowerShot A series.
G Series: Cameras in the G series are like….souped up A series cameras. The G models sport even more manual controls allowing you to learn and explore with more creative control. Unlike the SD or A lines….there’s only one G model. At the time I’m writing this the current G is the G7. Yes, I do remember the G1. These little guys are awe inspiring with their slough of controls and capabilities. One unique feature of the G cameras is that it can accept a hotshoe flash.
S Series: If you want D-SLR-ish capability without the bulk of carrying multiple lenses around with you the S series is it. Like the G series, there is only one S model at a time. The S models are equipped with higher mega pixel sensors than its brethren, and pack with them an impressive optical zoom range; presently 12x! Of course as we progress through these models, and add features like 12x optical zoom, the cameras are increasing in size. So the S is gonna be the bulkiest PowerShot, but still quite a bit smaller than packing a D-SLR around, and you’re getting a lot more features than the SD cameras.
TX Series: This is Canon’s newest PowerShot line. Currently there’s only one model, the TX1. It’s a model that brings digital photography and high definition digital video in to one device. I’ve never used one, and don’t know anyone who has. However with Canon’s reputation for compact digital cameras I’m sure it’s one sweet little device. If a unit with both photo and high quality video capabilities sounds like something that fits your needs I’d suggest checking it out.
Conclusion: Highly Thumbed Up
