Canon Introduces New PowerShot Superzoom

You'd think Canon already had more than enough models in its line of PowerShot point-and-shoots digital cameras, which before today added up to just shy of two dozen, at 23. But today, Canon announced two 8-megapixel, image-stabilized cameras: the 12X optical superzoom PowerShot S5 IS and the 4X optical zoom ultracompact SD850 IS Digital Elph. Consumers can now choose from 25 PowerShot point-and-shoots!

Both of today's new cameras have face-detection technology, 2.5-inch LCDs, and in-camera red-eye correction, though neither includes a true wide-angle end of the zoom lens of 28-mm or wider. Both are compatible with SD and SDHC memory cards.

For me, the big news today is the S5 IS, which comes with a 12X optical zoom of 36 to 432 mm (35-mm film equivalent), features a hot shoe (which wasn't on the S3 IS, this camera's predecessor), includes an articulating LCD, ships with 22 shooting modes, has the ability to set complete manual settings, and has a top shutter speed of 1/3,200 second.

The camera also has several video features, including the ability to take still shots while filming video. For me, the SD850 IS is just another SD point-and-shoot from Canon, which does include a 35-to-140-mm (35-mm film equivalent) zoom and comes with 18 shooting modes. However, Canon claims that the six new movie modes on the SD850 will include unique video settings, including a time-lapse feature.

The PowerShot S5 IS will retail at $499.99, while the SD850 IS will retail at $399.99. Both cameras will be available in late Spring.

Copyright 2007 by Ziff Davis Media, Distributed by United Press International