Superzoom cameras proved to be a refreshing entry into the world of compact cameras, especially for those who wanted a cheaper and smaller alternative to DSLR cameras. These cameras gave the average consumer what he wanted – higher zoom value, controls of his fingertips and smaller and more compact dimensions. They were, in fact, received by the consumers with great appreciation and anticipation. One of the first superzoom cameras to take the imaging world by storm was the Canon PowerShot S3 IS. This 6mp and 12x wide angle optical zoom camera is also equipped with Image Stabilization. Another feature that makes it stand apart from other super zoom cameras, is the fact that it is equipped with an optical viewfinder too, which makes composition more accurate.
Design and FunctioningDesigned to look like a miniature model of a DSLR, the Canon PowerShot S3 IS could well be mistaken for a school going child’s project on optics and imaging! Unlike its predecessor, the Canon PowerShot S2 IS, which was available in Metallic Silver, this camera is available in Gun Metal Grey colour. The camera's 12x zoom lens has an equivalent film focal length of 36-432 mm. PowerShot S3 IS employs a true optical image stabilization system. Unlike electronic image stabilizer systems that typically cause degradation of image quality, this Image Stabilizer provides up to three stops of camera shake correction in shutter speed equivalent. It is essential when engaging the 12x optical zoom lens because the extension of a long lens magnifies camera shake in direct proportion with the amount of lens magnification employed. The PowerShot S3 IS features a Sports Mode that allows users to select high shutter speeds and the camera automatically selects the appropriate aperture for capturing beautiful action shots. Canon also enhanced the 'My Colors' mode found in the new PowerShot line, which permits captured images to be retouched as well, without the need for special software applications or tools. For those who already know a thing or two about focusing as well as exposure controls, there is also a fully manual mode. The Canon PowerShot S2 IS contains about 16MB of internal memory and is compatible with SD as well as MultiMedia Cards.
