Lake Success, NY—Canon USA added two feature-packed cameras, the PowerShot S100 and PowerShot SX40 HS, to its lineup of point-and-shoot models. In addition to enhanced low-light performance and increased overall speed, the two cameras include a new Digic 5 image processor, HS system, Full HD video capture, high-speed burst HQ and intelligent IS for clearer looking images.
“Photo enthusiasts are always on the search for that next great camera to help them achieve the best results,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon USA. “The inclusion of the new Digic 5 image processor and Full HD recording capabilities on both new models will provide users with the tools needed to capture brilliant images and videos as they continue their photographic journey.”
Seeking to improve the quality of images taken in low light is Canon’s HS system, where the image processor and high-sensitivity image sensor work together. According to Canon, the PowerShot S100 and SX40 HS utilize the new Digic 5 image processor to maintain low-light image quality while improving overall camera operation and color accuracy. The processor has improved noise reduction and multi-area white balance to optimize color tones of both subject and background under multiple light sources.
An added benefit of the Digic 5 is the incorporation of the new high-speed burst HQ1, which is designed to provide users with the ability to continuously capture a maximum of eight frames to, say, capture a child scoring a goal on the soccer field. The two models also employ intelligent IS (image stabilization), enabling them to automatically choose from six modes (normal, macro, panning, dynamic, powered, tripod) to help achieve blur-free images for various shooting conditions.
The duo also share Full HD recording (1,920×1,080) capabilities, a dedicated movie record button, and the ability to zoom while recording. An HDMI terminal output is included for sharing videos with stereo sound on HDTVs.
PowerShot S100. With a 12.1 megapixel CMOS image sensor and a 24-120mm f/2.0 wide-angle 5x optical zoom lens, the S100 is capable of improved low-light performance up to ISO 6400. Available in black or silver, it also features: a 3.0-inch widescreen LCD; GPS capabilities that collect latitude, longitude and altitude data of an image’s location and stored them to its EXIF data; map utility software to view the locations where images were captured; an internal GPS logger to track the day’s photographic route; a range of shooting and recording modes similar to those found in DSLRs, like RAW + JPEG; a control ring for manual adjustment of key functions; and compatibility with the HF-DC2 high-power optional wireless flash accessory. Scheduled for early November, it will retail for $429.99.
PowerShot SX40 HS. Boasting an image-stabilized 35x optical zoom (24-840mm) and a 12.1MP CMOS image sensor (part of the HS system), the SX40 HS captures low-light images with ISO 3200. It also provides: a 2.7-inch vari-angle LCD; improved smart auto settings to help ensure the settings are intelligently selected based on the camera’s 32 predefined shooting situations; and a zoom framing assist button that helps users steady the camera and maintain focus. It’s available for $429.99. usa.canon.com
