Canon Powershot SD800 IS Review

Click to take a QTVR tour of the SD800

The 10.0 megapixel PowerShot SD900 and the 7.1 megapixel PowerShot SD800 IS Digital ELPHs take the marriage of style and substance to a new level, by offering an array of user-friendly features along with faster response time and a new face detection autofocus system that keeps subjects in focus no matter where they appear in the frame.

The SD800 IS is the second and newest Optical Image Stabilized Digital ELPH model in the PowerShot line for 2006, and is now the top-of-the-line Digital ELPH IS entry. Canon based the optical image stabilization system on advancements made in the development of the company's EF and video lenses, and then scaled it down to fit the diminutive Digital ELPH camera profile. Unlike electronic or "digital image stabilization systems" that typically degrade image quality, Canon's lens shift-type stabilization system preserves maximum optical quality while providing up to three stops of shake correction in shutter speed equivalent.

This new IS model features a number of significant advancements, including improved low-light performance due to the combination of optical IS and a top ISO speed of 1600, and for the first time in the Digital ELPH series, an optical 3.8x wide range zoom lens (28-105mm equivalent), which employs Canon's UA lens technology that permits a longer zoom capability in a smaller amount of space.

These models feature DIGIC III, the newest iteration of Canon's ultra-efficient (and proprietary) image processor; shared thus far only with Canon's new flagship PowerShot G7 model. This new chip accounts boasts higher performance levels including faster start up, autofocus and shutter response times; improved maximum processing speed; and of course, enhanced image quality and more efficient power consumption; resulting in extended battery life under typical shooting conditions.

Thanks to the DIGIC III chip's more aggressive noise reduction, these Digital ELPH cameras are able to shoot at ISO equivalent speed ratings from 80 to as high as 1600. This increased sensitivity at the top-end allows the use of faster shutter speeds, significantly reducing camera shake and subject blur during hand held low-light photography.

All of the new models offer a new widescreen 16:9 ratio resolution setting that facilitates creating panoramic-style prints. Additionally, all new PowerShot models support 23 languages (now including Thai and Arabic). The new cameras have an improved direct printing function that permits greater flexibility in print settings, including a face brightener setting for backlit photos.

Canon also enhanced the 'My Colors' mode found in the new PowerShot line. Where previously, users could only enable 'My Colors' while shooting, the current iteration permits captured images to be retouched as well, without the need for special software applications or tools. Available My Color playback modes include Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, and Vivid Red; lighter and darker skin tones, as well as options for creating black & white, sepia, neutral and positive film effects.

For those who consider the ocean depths part of the Digital Elph camera line's "go anywhere" promise, Canon offers individual optional waterproof housing systems. With a depth rating of 40m/130 feet, these models are a natural choice for underwater photo enthusiasts, SCUBA divers and even snorkelers.

Like all PowerShot digital cameras, these new Digital ELPHs work seamlessly with Canon's petite SELPHY Compact Photo Printers - an essential PowerShot accessory. Consumers simply connect their PowerShot digital camera to a SELPHY printer - such as the SELPHY CP510 and CP710 models. Press the lighted Print/Share button, and within seconds , images emerge. Presto! It is that simple. Canon's SELPHY Compact Photo Printers are PictBridge compatible. They work with PictBridge enabled digital cameras and offer excellent image quality and ease-of-use, especially when paired with a Canon digital camera. At 28 cents-per-print, printing photos directly from a digital camera is both easy and affordable.

Powershot SD800 IS Features:

• 7.1 Megapixel CCD sensor for up to 3072x2304 pixel images
• 3.8x optical 28-105mm (35mm equivalent) zoom with Image Stabilizer
• Large 2.5" color LCD with Night Display function
• Widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio for HDTV display
• Ultra-compact and durable stainless steel body (3.52 x 2.28 x 0.99 in.)
• Advanced TTL AiAF 9-point autofocus system with focus-assist lamp
• Program AE automatic and Manual exposure modes
• Continuous 1.7fps shooting until memory is full
• Movie mode w/sound 30/15fps 640x480/320x240
• Fast Frame Rate Movie recording, 320x240 at 60fps
• Evaluative metering on focus point or Spot
• Exposure compensation: +/-2EV in 1/3-step increments
• White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
• Photo Effects: Vivid, Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, Vivid Red, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, Positive Film, Lighter Skin Tone, Darker Skin Tone, Custom Color
• Shutter speeds of 15 seconds to 1/1600 second
• Auto noise reduction with 1.3 sec or longer shutter speeds
• Selectable ISO settings from 80 to 1600
• 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
• High-speed USB 2.0 connectivity for PC and Mac
• SD/SDHC and MMC card storage, 16MB SD card supplied

The PowerShot SD800 IS (IXUS 850 IS) Digital ELPH camera is available now for an estimated selling price of US$399.99.