Product Reviews Facts and Notes

Canon has recently released the new PowerShot SD800 IS, which - of course - improves on the faults of its predecessors. Opening a new door, in the world of point-and-shoot, Canon also implemented a wide-angle lens on this new model. With luscious curves, shiny accents, and a durable build, you can take this point-and-shoot camera just about anywhere - even underwater.

The PowerShot SD800 IS is constructed of metal (great durability), offers many shiny accents, is only 1-inch thick, and only weighs six ounces. Even though the overall dimensions of this model, appear to be small, it is not quite as small as some of its competitors. While the natural curvature, of the PowerShot SD800, fits nicely in the curves of your hand, some of the buttons are so small they are difficult to find and click.

The PowerShot SD800s 2.5-inch and 207,000-pixel resolution LCD screen displays images in one of the crispest formats ever seen. There is; however, one thing missing from the LCD display, and that is the battery life expectancy. If you travel a lot, or plan on taking pictures at a particular function, additional batteries would be recommended - just in case.

You can easily reach the 4-way navigational buttons with your thumb, if you are holding the camera in your right hand. All adjustments and settings are available through the use of the 4-way navigational menu. You also have the option of manual or automatic mode with automatic offering more options.

Manually adjusting your ISO range is becoming increasingly popular. The PowerShot SD800 allows you to adjust ISO up to 1,600 - typically used for low light shooting environments. This particular model; however, tends to get a bit noisy at this setting, and images turn about a bit grainy.

The PowerShot SD800 is one of the first point-and-shoot cameras to offer wide-angle shots. This is possible due to the 28mm-equivilant wide shot lens along with the 3.8x zoom. Even though the zoom is only 3.8x, it tends to operate better than cameras with a higher zoom ration.

Face recognition (up to 9) and image optimization and stabilization are all part of the Digic III image processor that Canon integrated into the PowerShot SD800. This technology helps to eliminate blur caused by motion or lens blur. There is a mechanism, in the lens, that balances out the image in order to provide a crisp output. Digic III also prolongs battery life and increases the overall performance of the camera.

Burst mode allows multiple pictures to be taken, with just one click. Average time, between shots, with the PowerShot SD800 is about 1 second, making this functionality average to above average, in comparison with other point-and-shoot cameras. Consumers can also shoot video clips, adjust aperture and shutter, along with a handful of other adjustments. With every PowerShot SD800 comes a 16MB memory card. Beware; however, this will only hold a few high quality images.

Spending time looking for the right price is definitely worth it with this model considering it ranges anywhere from $200 to $400.

The PowerShot SD800 IS is the product of one of the most infamous camera makers - Canon. Regardless of a few minor quirks, the camera takes high quality pictures, is easy to travel with, has a durable frame, and is backed by a very well known manufacturer.