The PowerShot SX30 IS has got you prepared for your next extreme photo opportunity. This point-and-shoot digital camera comes with a massive 35x Wide-Angle (24-840mm) Optical Zoom lens--a first for any PowerShot! It also comes with a 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD, 14.1 Megapixels, High Dynamic Range, Zoom Framing Assist and much more.
Canon PowerShot SX30 Highlights
35x wide-angle optical zoom (24-840mm) with Optical Image Stabilizer
The PowerShot SX30 IS is equipped with a 35x Optical Zoom lens with a focal length of 4.3-150.5mm (35mm equivalent: 24-840mm) that allows you to shoot any scene from wide-angle to telephoto. The camera uses a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) for high-speed, quiet, energy-efficient lens movement with precise control. Focal length is conveniently indicated on the lens barrel.
The lens is optimized to fully exploit its zoom length and wide shooting angle in concert with the camera's high 14.1 Megapixel resolution. UD glass effectively suppresses chromatic aberration, while enhanced negative refractive power ensures that distortion at the wide-angle is also corrected. Further aberration is controlled with the inclusion of a double-sided aspherical glass-molded lens and ultra-high refraction index lens.
The SX30 IS is equipped with Canon's acclaimed Optical Image Stabilizer Technology that automatically detects and corrects camera shake--one of the leading causes of fuzzy or blurred shots. Even when zoomed in, you can get the steady, crisp, brilliant images you'll be proud to shoot and share. And Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer Technology is convenient to use. It functions perfectly with or without a flash.
Improvements to Movie modes: Dynamic mode enables users to use the Optical Image Stabilizer while shooting video.
Dynamic IS allows you to capture video with more precision and ease than ever before! Without having to make any additional camera adjustments, Dynamic IS automatically operates the moment you start recording video. This image stabilizer continuously readjusts throughout the camera's entire zoom range to correct a broad range of motion -- especially when shooting in the wide-angle end, so footage comes out steady and clear even while you're walking and recording at the same time!
The SX30 IS is equipped with Canon's acclaimed Optical Image Stabilizer Technology that automatically detects and corrects camera shake--one of the leading causes of fuzzy or blurred shots. Even when zoomed in, you can get the steady, crisp, brilliant images you'll be proud to shoot and share. And Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer Technology is convenient to use. It functions perfectly with or without a flash.
Improvements to Movie modes: Dynamic mode enables users to use the Optical Image Stabilizer while shooting video.
Dynamic IS allows you to capture video with more precision and ease than ever before! Without having to make any additional camera adjustments, Dynamic IS automatically operates the moment you start recording video. This image stabilizer continuously readjusts throughout the camera's entire zoom range to correct a broad range of motion -- especially when shooting in the wide-angle end, so footage comes out steady and clear even while you're walking and recording at the same time!
Shoots superb 720p HD video with stereo sound; HDMI output.
The PowerShot SX30 IS lets you record video in beautiful high definition (1280 x 720 pixels). The camera also makes it easy to enjoy HD videos (and still photos) on your HDTV with a mini-HDMI connector for direct connection to a high-definition TV monitor. You'll enjoy the HD experience with no degradation of image or audio in the signal, plus the ability to display up to 130 still images at once.
The PowerShot SX30 IS lets you record video in beautiful high definition (1280 x 720 pixels). The camera also makes it easy to enjoy HD videos (and still photos) on your HDTV with a mini-HDMI connector for direct connection to a high-definition TV monitor. You'll enjoy the HD experience with no degradation of image or audio in the signal, plus the ability to display up to 130 still images at once.
New Zoom Framing Assist button
With its 35x Optical Zoom lens, the SX30 IS can certainly capture subjects located at a very far distance; however, even with a powerful zoom lens it can often be tricky to track a moving subject while zoomed out to the maximum telephoto range and attempting to steady the camera. To counter this problem, Canon created the Zoom Framing Assist function. By simply pressing and holding the convenient Zoom Framing Assist function button, the camera will automatically zoom out to a wider focal point, allowing you to look for your elusive subject. Once found, releasing the button will cause the camera to return to its original position and intelligently keep the subject in focus, so you don't have to trouble yourself with any of the controls. Recording video and images has never been easier with a Canon PowerShot!
Just set the Canon PowerShot SX30 IS to Smart AUTO and you're ready for maximum enjoyment from your picture taking every time. It's a relaxing and satisfying way to shoot because you can completely concentrate on your subject knowing that the camera has the technical details covered. Advanced Canon technology intelligently analyzes your situation and shooting conditions. Then it automatically selects an appropriate setting from 28 specially defined settings. So whether you're photographing flowers, a captivating sunset, or your friends at the park, you can be confident that you're getting dramatic, memorable images.
DIGIC 4 Image Processor and 14.1 megapixels.
The PowerShot SX30 IS is equipped with many of the same features as a higher-end camera: an ultra-powerful zoom, eye-popping resolution and advanced picture-improving technology. 14.1 Megapixels of resolution gives your photography incomparable depth and ensures that any section of any shot can be enlarged and cropped with no loss in quality when you edit the image or even if you choose to print the image. It can create crisp, clear 13" x 19" posters.
Canon's proprietary DIGIC Image Processors have long set its cameras apart from the competition, and the new DIGIC 4 sets the bar even higher. Faster, more accurate noise reduction delivers better image quality, even at high ISO speeds.
iSAPS Technology is an entirely original scene-recognition technology developed for digital cameras by Canon. Using an internal database of thousands of different photos, iSAPS works with the advanced DIGIC 4 Image Processor to improve focus speed and accuracy, as well as exposure and white balance.
Large 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD enables easy viewing
The camera's 2.7-inch PureColor System LCD screen gives you the big picture, whether you're shooting, reviewing or showing off your images. This high-resolution screen offers a crisp, clear picture to make shooting, playback and using the camera's menu functions especially convenient. The clear and bright LCD also features Night Display for easy viewing in low light. It also has an electronic viewfinder that provides sharp images when you shoot up close during Macro photography.
Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, which makes powering up simple
The PowerShot SX30 IS now uses a rechargeable lithium-ion NB-7L battery. For ultimate convenience and simplicity, just charge the batteries and you're ready for your next photographic adventure!
What's in the Box
Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, which makes powering up simple
The PowerShot SX30 IS now uses a rechargeable lithium-ion NB-7L battery. For ultimate convenience and simplicity, just charge the batteries and you're ready for your next photographic adventure!
What's in the Box
- PowerShot SX30 IS Camera body
- Lithium-ion Battery Pack NB-7L
- Battery Charger CB-2LZ
- Neck Strap NS-DC11
- Lens Cap
- Case for Hot Shoe Cap
- AV Cable AVC-DC400ST
- USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
- Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM
Product Description
The PowerShot SX30 IS has got you prepared for your next extreme photo opportunity. This point-and-shoot digital camera comes with a massive 35x Wide-Angle (24-840mm) Optical Zoom lens - a first for any PowerShot! It also comes with a 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD, 14.1 Megapixels, High Dynamic Range, Zoom Framing Assist and much more.FEATURES: Canons first high-powered 35x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom (24-840mm) with Optical Image Stabilizer reduces camera shake to achieve amazing images whether you are up close or far away - The PowerShot SX30 IS is equipped with a 35x Optical Zoom lens with a focal length of 4.3 - 150.5mm (35mm equivalent: 24 - 840mm) that allows you to shoot any scene from wide-angle to telephoto. The camera uses a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) for high-speed, quiet, energy-efficient lens movement with precise control. Focal length is conveniently indicated on the lens barrel. Improvements to Movie modes: Dynamic mode enables users to use the Optical Image Stabilizer while shooting video in the wide-angle setting, and the Optical Zoom is now available while shooting video - Dynamic IS allows you to capture video with more precision and ease than ever before! Without having to make any additional camera adjustments, Dynamic IS automatically operates the moment you start recording video. This image stabilizer continuously readjusts throughout the camera's entire zoom range to correct a broad range of motion - especially when shooting in the wide-angle end, so footage comes out steady and clear even while you're walking and recording at the same time! And with a powerful 35x Optical Zoom, you'll never be too far away from capturing your greatest memories! Best of all, the Optical Zoom can now be used while shooting video - a first for any of the Canon PowerShot SX digital cameras! So no matter the distance or environment, Canon lets you stay confident that you'll capture the footage you want. Shoots superb 720p HD video with stereo sound so you can fun.
Product Features
- 35x wide-angle optical zoom (24-840mm) with Optical Image Stabilizer
- Improvements to Movie modes: use the Optical Image Stabilizer in the wide-angle setting;Optical Zoom is now available while shooting video
- 720p HD video with stereo sound; HDMI output
- New Zoom Framing Assist button; DIGIC 4 Image Processor and 14.1 megapixels
- Capture images and video to SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card, MultiMediaCard, MMC Plus Card, HC MMC Plus Card (not included)
Technical Details
- Brand Name: Canon
- Model: SX30IS
- Optical Sensor Resolution: 14.1 MP
- Optical zoom: 35 x
- Display Size: 2.700 inches
- Width: 4.8 inches
- Height: 3.7 inches
- Weight: 21.2 Ounces
I scouted the camera's release back in September and have been waiting impatiently for it's arrival in early October! I finally got it last week and couldn't be more pleased! I've taken well over 2000 pics and at least 20 videos so far. Can't seem to put it down (literally- i've yet to use a tripod, even at 35 and 140x zooms)! I have shaky hands, so I was pleasantly surprised at the quality in any shooting situation! The zoom seems to be the most reviewed feature, but this thing is far from done there! It has a million features from fully automated shooting to complete manual functionality! Tons of effects and modes (check Canon's site). I had looked at several DSLR cameras, and even tested a few out, and for beginner to intermediate usage this camera is gonna be tough to beat! Especially with that price tag. Here are some of the features that appealed to me: 14.1 MP, 35x wide angle zoom, 720p HD video, TV, AV , Manual mode (especially this- complete control of aperture, shutter, and focus), all the common photo effects, 4.5 stop Image Stabilization. If you're looking for a professional quality camera, but aren't ready for DSLR pricing this is the camera to own! You won't be disappointed!!
This review is from: Canon SX30IS 14.1MP Digital Camera with 35x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7 Inch Wide LCD (Electronics)
I purchased this camera as a replacement for my Panasonic FZ-35. After having taken a few hundred pictures - including some side-by-side comparisons with the FZ35, here is my impression.
The canon image processor is much better at color balance and overall image capture than the FZ35 - images are brighter and so capture more details otherwise lost in shadow or just a tendency the FZ35 has towards gray-scale processing in order to get the excellent sharpness the FZ35 is known for.
Having said that - I would not recommend using the Auto setting on the Canon. Its choice of focal point within an image tends towards creating images where the background is just as likely to be more in focus than the subject. Typically the camera tries to focus around the edge of the subject rather than the subject itself. Sometimes this can work to improve clarity by improving depth of focus a bit, sometimes it creates an image where nothing is in focus and sometimes it causes the camera to focus on "edgy" subjects that may not really be the subject at all - like a lamp post in the background, tree trunks in the background, etc. In the playback mode you can select a display which shows you the cameras focal point - which can help explain why some of your images look they way they do in Auto. Auto mode will also adjust the color of an entire image when it senses facial recognition to improve skin tones, but honestly the color balance of the Canon is so good anyway this is almost unnecessary and sometimes tends towards overcompensation so your entire image takes on a sickly green/brown hue.
However, if you switch from auto to P - or in fact any other of the SCN or mode selections on the dial, these annoying Auto features are disabled and you can get some really great photos. At this point the camera uses a single center focus frame (the size and position of which can easily be manually adjusted to fit your subject if you like) and you start getting pictures more like you expect. In addition, the customization options of the Canon such as magnifying the focal frame, color options, easy adjustment of just about any shooting function, combined with the superb zoom range still make this camera best in class. My only complaint for SCN settings is I wish they had a "sunset" but that is easily created in the color menu where you can select to emphasize reds.
The canon normally produces very clear images, however Canon generally processes to keep color balance as opposed to edge distinction at higher ISO speeds so sometimes the images become a bit more fuzzy than what those of us used the the FZ35 might like - on the other hand red stays red rather than turning black. You can manually limit the ISO to whatever maximum you prefer with the easy to use ISO button.
If you want to add a lens filter protector, polarizer, etc. you will need to purchase the 67MM adapter to do so (Canon FA-DC67A) - and good luck finding one!
This camera, like all of the others in this class, struggle with poor light conditions due to their small sensor. However unlike the competition, canon allows you to mount an external flash and that pretty much clears up this issue if you're willing to pay the expense. The way I look at it its a cheaper option than a $1,000-$3,000 DSLR which can go up to ISO 6,000 for low light conditions.
Overall the Canon is definitely a step up from anything else that was out there - but it does have its quirks you need to be aware of and work around. The opportunity for creativity on one camera/lens is really unrivaled by anything else out there. The ability to go from 1 cm away macro to 35x superzoom at the pull of a switch just can't be found on any other camera, combined with the scene options such as fisheye not normally found on other such cameras, and wide range of color options also not found on the Canon competitors in this class, you have a great tool for creative photography. So while the SX30 is certainly not perfect and image quality will sometimes be less than your $3,000 DSLR+lens (although for some pictures you'd need large magnification/blow-up to tell the difference) - on the whole it's worth putting up with the limitations for the other factors. One caution - if you're looking for a simple to use point-and-shoot this may not be your best choice due to the often poor intelligence in Auto setting. If not for this it would have gotten 5 stars.
The canon image processor is much better at color balance and overall image capture than the FZ35 - images are brighter and so capture more details otherwise lost in shadow or just a tendency the FZ35 has towards gray-scale processing in order to get the excellent sharpness the FZ35 is known for.
Having said that - I would not recommend using the Auto setting on the Canon. Its choice of focal point within an image tends towards creating images where the background is just as likely to be more in focus than the subject. Typically the camera tries to focus around the edge of the subject rather than the subject itself. Sometimes this can work to improve clarity by improving depth of focus a bit, sometimes it creates an image where nothing is in focus and sometimes it causes the camera to focus on "edgy" subjects that may not really be the subject at all - like a lamp post in the background, tree trunks in the background, etc. In the playback mode you can select a display which shows you the cameras focal point - which can help explain why some of your images look they way they do in Auto. Auto mode will also adjust the color of an entire image when it senses facial recognition to improve skin tones, but honestly the color balance of the Canon is so good anyway this is almost unnecessary and sometimes tends towards overcompensation so your entire image takes on a sickly green/brown hue.
However, if you switch from auto to P - or in fact any other of the SCN or mode selections on the dial, these annoying Auto features are disabled and you can get some really great photos. At this point the camera uses a single center focus frame (the size and position of which can easily be manually adjusted to fit your subject if you like) and you start getting pictures more like you expect. In addition, the customization options of the Canon such as magnifying the focal frame, color options, easy adjustment of just about any shooting function, combined with the superb zoom range still make this camera best in class. My only complaint for SCN settings is I wish they had a "sunset" but that is easily created in the color menu where you can select to emphasize reds.
The canon normally produces very clear images, however Canon generally processes to keep color balance as opposed to edge distinction at higher ISO speeds so sometimes the images become a bit more fuzzy than what those of us used the the FZ35 might like - on the other hand red stays red rather than turning black. You can manually limit the ISO to whatever maximum you prefer with the easy to use ISO button.
If you want to add a lens filter protector, polarizer, etc. you will need to purchase the 67MM adapter to do so (Canon FA-DC67A) - and good luck finding one!
This camera, like all of the others in this class, struggle with poor light conditions due to their small sensor. However unlike the competition, canon allows you to mount an external flash and that pretty much clears up this issue if you're willing to pay the expense. The way I look at it its a cheaper option than a $1,000-$3,000 DSLR which can go up to ISO 6,000 for low light conditions.
Overall the Canon is definitely a step up from anything else that was out there - but it does have its quirks you need to be aware of and work around. The opportunity for creativity on one camera/lens is really unrivaled by anything else out there. The ability to go from 1 cm away macro to 35x superzoom at the pull of a switch just can't be found on any other camera, combined with the scene options such as fisheye not normally found on other such cameras, and wide range of color options also not found on the Canon competitors in this class, you have a great tool for creative photography. So while the SX30 is certainly not perfect and image quality will sometimes be less than your $3,000 DSLR+lens (although for some pictures you'd need large magnification/blow-up to tell the difference) - on the whole it's worth putting up with the limitations for the other factors. One caution - if you're looking for a simple to use point-and-shoot this may not be your best choice due to the often poor intelligence in Auto setting. If not for this it would have gotten 5 stars.
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