Canon Powershot G7 Review
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Click to take a QTVR tour of the G7
A combination of technological advancements, as well as the introduction of the DIGIC III image processor has allowed the G7 to become the fastest G series camera to date, with a startup time approximately twice as fast as its predecessor at 1.4 seconds (LCD monitor on). Other firsts on a G series model include Optical Image Stabilization and the addition of 13 new special scene modes for a variety of shooting situations. The PowerShot G7 model also adds the "My Colors" function as well as added flexibility with an increased ISO sensitivity, which ranges from 80-1600, or as high as ISO 3200 in the special scene mode. With the enhanced noise reduction, users can confidently shoot in low light scenes. True to Canon's tradition of optical excellence, the G7 is equipped with a fast and sharp f/2.8-4.8 6X optical zoom lens (35-210mm, 35mm equivalent). Canon's specialized SR coating augments the all glass lens, the first time this lens coating technology has been applied in a compact digital camera. In combination with the lens' aspherical elements, the SR coating helps reduce flare and ghosting, delivering a cleaner image to the camera's CCD sensor in the process. The precision lens also features an extreme macro setting that focuses down to one centimeter. Optional optical wide-angle (WC-DC58B), telephoto (TC-DC58C) and close-up (58mm 250D) supplementary lenses are also available. The G7 also features a Lens-Shift type optical image stabilization system that can help defeat the effects of camera shake in low light situations. This optical image stabilization system is based on advancements made in the development of Canon's EF lenses and video lenses. Unlike electronic or "digital image stabilization systems" that typically degrade image quality, the G7's lens shift-type preserves maximum optical performance while providing up to three stops of shake correction in shutter speed equivalent. Compact yet comfortable to hold, the G7 is also an aesthetic treat, harking back to the look and feel of classic Canon cameras. From its retro "wet black matte finish," leather-toned grip and the detailed knurling and analog-style "click-click" of the camera's top side ISO Speed Dial and Shooting Mode Dial, to the stylish metallic accents of the body's aluminum- finish parts, this PowerShot model conveys a sense of "camera-ness" rarely encountered in the world of digital photography. The "brain" of this new model is DIGIC III, the newest iteration of Canon's ultra-efficient (and proprietary) image processor. Making its debut on the G7 (along with Canon's three newest Digital ELPH models) this chip accounts for the camera's higher performance levels including faster start up, autofocus and shutter response times, and of course, improved image quality and more efficient power consumption; resulting in extended battery life under typical shooting conditions. Canon's new Face Detection AF/AE technology (working in concert with the 9-point Autofocus system), allows the camera to detect, lock on and track up to nine human faces in a scene simply by pressing the shutter button halfway. The face detection algorithm automatically prioritizes and selects the optimum subject and not simply the closest face (based on Canon's Intelligent Scene Analysis/iSAPS technology). It will then optimize the focus and exposure to ensure the best possible results for even easier picture taking moments. The G7 is equipped with a newly enhanced, 2.5-inch color LCD screen with approximately 207,000 pixels, a wide viewing angle and 15 brightness settings making it easier to read the display menus and easier to preview and review subjects and scenes. Adding to the ease of composing a picture in the proper print proportion, the G7 is appointed with optional grid lines and a 3:2 aspect ratio print display overlay. This convenient composition guide overlays horizontal gray bars at the top and bottom of the LCD screen so that photographers can compose and shoot their images in the proportion best suited to the print size they wish to make (typically 4x6-inches).
When it comes to special scenes, the PowerShot G7 makes a quantum leap over its predecessor
with the addition of 13 new modes for a variety of scenic shooting situations. Notable among
the special scene modes (which include portrait, night snapshot, kids & pets, indoor,
foliage, snow, beach and fireworks settings etc.) is the new ISO 3200 and Aquarium settings
that permit low light, no-flash photography in situations where using a flash would ruin a
picture by bouncing back off glass or other reflective surfaces. For those whose photographic
passions take them beyond the water's edge and beneath its surface, the underwater
special scene mode comes in to play. In order to actually take the camera underwater, users
must safely ensconce it in the optional waterproof case WP-DC11, specifically designed for
the PowerShot G7 and rated safe to depths of up to 130 feet.
Powershot G7 Features:
Physical Views     
 The G7 compared to an average CD disc.  Canon's 10-megapixel models for 2006, the G7 and the SD900 Digital ELPH. |
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