Canon PowerShot Pro1 - quality that ends quickly. Canon PowerShot S2 IS Digital Camera Review Designed for powershot g-series cameras

14.03.2020

The logic of the class struggle (guilty, the struggle for the buyer's wallet) is inexorable, and if Sony has released an 8 megapixel ICX 456 matrix and sells it to everyone, then all companies will release 8 megapixel cameras. Naturally, Canon is no exception, and we have the latest Pro 1 with a frame size of 3264x2448 pixels and a 7x L-series zoom lens. Focal length 7.2-50.8mm (28-200mm in 35 mm equivalent). The maximum relative aperture is F:2.4-F:3.5, respectively, for the minimum and maximum focal lengths. 14 elements, in 10 groups, one fluorite lens, one very low dispersion (UD) glass lens and two aspherical elements. Marking L, as well as Pro in the name of the camera, are designed to convince the buyer that he did not waste his money. I have no doubt that the engineers have done a titanic job, and under certain conditions it will allow you to get a few percent the best shots than the previous 5 MP model. This is due to the fact that the distance between the centers of adjacent pixels is only 2.7 microns. And despite all the efforts, the maximum can be squeezed out of the lens only in a very narrow range of apertures. Less hole - diffraction, more - aberration. Realistically, if the ultimate in your dreams is an A4 print, replacing the sensor only results in a decrease in sensitivity to 50 ISO. The main thing, however, with professional cameras is how much it is an extension of your hands. The quality and capabilities of all 8 megapixel cameras are approximately the same, but some will be able to realize it to the maximum with a camera from one company, while others - only with another. You can draw an analogy with a combat pistol, which everyone must grab, shoot, and ideally hit the enemy first, and a sports pistol, which a random person cannot even pick up in his hand, since the handle is orthopedic and is made for a specific shooter, and there are so many settings, that it can take more than one day to zero and fit. Also professional cameras, unlike soap dishes, are designed exclusively for one hand, which may take more than one month to get used to the camera. You can give this soapbox to a passer-by and say: “Press the button, take a picture of me against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower” - and everything will work out. With a professional camera, the result can be generally deplorable: no picture, no camera.

In general, all cameras of this class are very similar. Look closely, Nikon 8700 and Canon Pro1 look like twins from some angles.

Unlike 8 Mp Nikon and Minolta, in which only the film-matrix was practically replaced from 5 to 8 Mp, this camera has a significantly changed interface. In other words, working with it requires special skills. And, perhaps, for someone it will turn out to be the most convenient and successful of the existing ones. The main innovation is a ring that controls the focal length, and at the same time, if you hold the button on the rear panel with your thumb, the same ring is used for manual focusing. In addition, this camera has two bayonet mounts - for heavy and light attachments. One - on the moving part of the lens - is intended for a hood and light filters, the other - already on a fixed body - is intended for heavy tele- and wide-angle converters. The camera comes with a hood and an adapter for filters with an M58 threaded connection, but for heavy attachments, you will have to buy adapters separately.

The approach to charging batteries is also quite professional. External charger, battery, like previous Canon cameras, BP511, but now the letter a has been added at the end and an extra 200 mAh of capacity.

The camera can use external matched flashes, including Sigma EF 500 super; I got the impression that the automation works, but rather strangely. For normal results, you need to set the flash correction to -2. After that, the flash more or less adequately responds to changes in distance and aperture. However, this may also be a coincidence, so I cannot say that it can work this way, let alone recommend this flash for this camera.

Of the exotic functions in the camera, it is possible to introduce a neutral density filter through the menu. The need for an ND filter may arise only when shooting water, when you need to get a blurry image of a brightly lit stream. For these purposes, you can, of course, use an external filter screwed onto the lens, but the ability to install it through the menu is also, of course, not superfluous. There are exotic functions in the menu, but this camera does not have the usual brightness histogram shown in real time for many cameras. The LCD screen and viewfinder have a very good resolution of 235k dots.

Like other 8 megapixel cameras, all types of Compact Flash cards are used for recording, including FAT 32 file system for cards with a capacity of more than 2 GB. The camera can record both in JPEG and RAW format, the RAW structure is again times has changed, but in addition to native software, a plug-in version 2.2 for Photoshop CS has already appeared, which also supports this camera. The camera comes with an IR remote control.

Macro photography without additional attachments is not strong point this camera, SuperMacro mode works with a much smaller frame size, 2272x1704, and yet even it does not allow recapturing 24x36 frames one by one. The maximum scale that could be obtained can be estimated from the image below.

The camera has a relatively wide-angle lens, and although there is some vignetting in the corners, it does not go beyond what theory predicts.

Illumination of the edge points of the image

E \u003d kE 0 cos 4 (w),

where E 0 is the illumination in the center of the image, k is the vignetting coefficient.

In lenses with an angular field w from 40 to 65 degrees, the vignetting coefficient reaches 20-30%, which is considered acceptable. The fall in illumination from the center to the edges of the image without taking into account vignetting for such lenses is 20-50%. When shooting wide angle lenses there is a sharp decrease in illumination at the edges of the image.
(Theory of optical systems and optical measurements. M.: Mashinostroenie, 1981)

Below are some standard tests and a comparison with Nikon's main historical competitor. In the near future, an article is expected with the results of testing all 8 megapixel cameras, so I will not dwell on the tests in more detail.

Noises

At the minimum sensitivity, 50 ISO, the camera shows the same results as the competition. This is not surprising, these cameras have the same sensitive elements, and noise and sensitivity are actually determined by their area.

The image has been doubled in layout. Comparison of greyscale photographs illuminated by a halogen incandescent lamp taken by the Casio P600, Nikon 8700, Canon Pro1 cameras. White balance is set on all cameras - Incandescent lamp. Other settings (contrast, sharpness, noise reduction) - default

The table below shows the average brightness values and standard deviation.

*ISO*	Casio P600		Nikon 8700		Canon Pro1
50	109	1,8	104	1,6	118	1,5
	109	1,8	108	2,1	118	1,7
	109	1,8	105	1,8	118	1,6
	109	2,3	90	3,0	121	3,0
100	108	1,7	104	3,2	101	2,7
	108	2,0	108	3,6	99	3,0
	108	1,7	105	3,4	101	2,8
	110	2,9	87	5,2	104	4,5
200	108	2,8	103	4,3	116	4,3
	108	3,4	107	5,0	116	4,5
	107	2,9	104	4,5	116	4,5
	112	4,8	86	7,3	118	6,5
400	107	4,3	108	8,0	103	7,6
	108	5,7	113	8,7	102	7,8
	106	4,4	111	8,3	103	7,7
	113	7,8	84	13,1	104	10,4

Permission

The lens of the previous model turned out to be successful enough to provide a resolution adequate to the new matrix with some aperture.

The image has been doubled in size for clarity. For scale, a circle with a diameter of 80 pixels is plotted.

Canon PowerShot G16 is the next model in the series, designed specifically for people who value both high ergonomics, a fast lens, and the ability to use the latest technology. This camera is the successor to the highly regarded G15 build. In the new model added functional WiFi and a new sensor along with the latest Digic 6 processor - which as a result (according to the manufacturer) has accelerated the camera. Considering that the rest of the assembly has not changed, we can consider the Canon G16 as a slightly improved model of the G15.

We must recall that at the premiere of the Canon G16, the camera was rather coldly received among photographers and journalists. They expected revolutionary changes in the details that were criticized in the G15 model. They were looking, in particular, for a flip-down display or an electronic viewfinder, or something that could greatly improve the comfortable use of the camera.

Was the Canon G15 really that bad to have a replacement so quickly? On the contrary, the previous model earned generally high marks in all categories except for the quality of the optics used.

The G16 is the first G-series camera to take full advantage of BSI technology. The new processor really speeds up the camera, and the Wi-fi interface makes it more attractive to use.

Build quality.

The Canon PowerShot G16 is a slightly larger camera than other compact models aimed at advanced users. Its dimensions are dictated by a large number of controls placed on its body, as well as an optical viewfinder. Despite the fact that its body is made of magnesium alloy, the camera is relatively heavy: together with the battery and memory card - 354 g (313 g of the camera body alone), which puts it on a par with heavy compact cameras.

Compared to its predecessor, the G15, the only noticeable change in the machine's design is the reorganization of the rear control panel.

There can be no objections to the quality of performance. The elements of the body are perfectly matched to each other, and in general the device makes a good impression.

The main properties of the Canon G16 camera:

Matrix BSI CMOS, size 1/1.7″ and resolution 12 Mpix
sensitivity range ISO 80-12800
f/1.8–f/2.8 lens with 28–140 mm equivalent focal length
ND filter (3 steps)
Shooting speed 12 frames / sec.
3″ LCD screen with a resolution of 920 thousand pixels
hot shoe
Optical viewfinder
Built-in WiFi

Lens

Just like its predecessor, our hero is equipped with a lens with a focus range of 6.1–30.5 mm (28–140 mm in 35 mm film equivalent), or a 5x optical zoom. The lens structure consists of 11 lenses divided into 9 groups (2 double-sided aspherical lenses, 1 UD lens, 1 single-sided aspherical lens). The aperture of this lens is f/1.8–f/2.8.

Let's see how the aperture value changes depending on the focus used.

We can clearly see that the design of the lens was conceived in such a way as to hold a large aperture as long as possible. One can only wish that competitors took this design feature as a model. Bravo!

Let's see how the G16 stacks up against the competition in terms of lens parameters.

Model	Focal length range	Diaphragm
Canon G16	28-140mm	f/1.8-f/2.8


Panasonic DMC-LX7

The lens is threaded to accept the LA-DC58L attachment, which allows the use of 58mm filters, or accessories such as the TC-DC58E teleconverter. To protect the lens during transport, the front lens is guarded by a special shutter that opens automatically when the camera is started.

For those who would like to achieve a greater approximation, the manufacturer has foreseen the option of additional digital image zoom. While we can afford 20x zoom (or the equivalent of 560mm on 35mm film), when using it, we have to forget about RAW format and put up with a loss in picture quality.

In macro mode, the device is able to get a clear picture already at a distance of 1 cm from the front edge of the lens.

Controls

On the front panel, in addition to the lens, we can also find a viewfinder eye, an autofocus and self-timer indicator, a front wheel, and a ring release button that protects the thread for attaching accessories to the lens.

On the rear panel there is an LCD screen surrounded by: a viewfinder with a diopter control along with an indicator consisting of two LEDs (the functions of which are to indicate the power of the device, readiness for shooting, AF readiness and flash), the PLAY button and the control panel. The top of the panel serves as a support for the thumb, right next to the very edge, there is a video recording button, as well as a quick key S. Below we see two buttons: ISO sensitivity selection, as well as a button marked with an asterisk icon, main function which is to lock AE / AF, as well as filtering pictures in preview mode. Next is, surrounded by a ring, a four-position switch that performs the following functions:

- Right - flash modes

- Down - DISP button

- Left - autofocus modes

- Up - MF mode

The middle switch button calls up the FUNC menu and confirms the selection of options.

At the very bottom we will find 2 additional keys:

- AF field selection (in photographing mode) / WI-fi activation (in photo viewing mode)

The AE lock key can also be used to quickly select exposure options when the unit is in M mode (the exposure compensation settings are taken into account when setting).

The top panel is reserved for the flash and the lever for its launch, a standard hot shoe, on the sides of which there are stereo microphones, a double control wheel (the top wheel is responsible for shooting modes, and the bottom one for exposure compensation). Nearby is the shutter release, surrounded by a focus change lever, and below is a small switch with an indicator.

On the bottom panel we will find the battery cover and the memory card slot. Nearby is a thread for a tripod. Unfortunately, its location leads to the fact that after installing the tripod disk, we do not have the opportunity to open the battery compartment.

Side panels are used for communication ports (right panel), as well as a loudspeaker (left panel).

Power and connection

The camera is powered by a battery with the designation NB-10L and parameters 7.4 V and 920 mAh. The battery, according to the manufacturer, is enough for 350 shots (or even 770, provided that the user does not use the LCD screen). During the tests, we were not able to achieve the declared amount - the battery required charging after 280 photos (with the LCD screen on). An additional problem may be the non-linear speed of operation and high sensitivity to voltage drops. After the red battery icon flashes, indicating a complete discharge, it is enough to turn off and immediately turn on the device to see a half-charged battery again. After a few shots, the situation repeats itself.

The battery socket is protected against accidental attempts to install the battery incorrectly. Charging is carried out in a special CB-2LCE charger and lasts about 1.5 hours. The manufacturer does not allow charging via a USB port.

Another way to power the machine is to use the optional external power supply ACK-DC80. The battery compartment also has room for a Secure Digital (SD, SDHC and SDXC) memory card.

On the right side of the unit, under a protective cover, there are Class C HDMI ports, as well as a universal communication port that allows you to send an audio / video signal to a TV using the supplied cable. This port also works as a USB port. By connecting the camera to a TV via HDMI, we can control the opening of pictures using the remote control. Next to the named ports is a remote control socket.

Screen

The device uses a 3-inch TFT screen with a resolution of 921 thousand pixels. In order to ensure the best display of colors in different lighting conditions, we can adjust the brightness of the screen in the range of a 5-level scale.

The image has good image contrast. Anti-reflective coatings do their job perfectly - even with a strong reflection of sunlight, everything is visible and reflections of light do not burden the shooting process. Of course, you can complain about the lack of the ability to tilt the screen or the inaccessible touch screen interface.

Viewfinder.

The device has an optical viewfinder, the field of view of which changes with a change in the focus of the lens. Just like in the previous models of this series, the viewfinder has one problem - the position of the picture in the viewfinder may differ slightly from the fixed frame. The viewfinder is equipped with diopter adjustment, but lacks a proximity sensor that would ensure that the main screen is turned off.

It turns out that photographing using only the optical viewfinder does not allow you to use autofocus in face detection mode. Also, during video shooting, the device requires the LCD to be turned on.

Usage and ergonomics

The G16 feels good in the hand, but the front handle is not very well matched. The shutter button does not always work well - it takes some effort to take a picture, but the two-stage resistance does not work well enough.

In order to make the use of the camera convenient, the manufacturer has equipped it with a roller and an additional control ring, thus giving users more freedom while working with aperture and shutter speed. We also have an exposure compensation ring at our disposal, which works in M mode, but is useless in AUTO modes.

An interesting possibility is the transfer of zoom control to the front control ring. In this case, each rotation will change the lens position to the next pre-set value. Here is their complete list: 28, 35, 50, 85, 100, 140 mm.

The Cannon G16 allows the use of a remote release cable. This is very convenient for users who take a photo in long exposure mode, which can be up to 240 seconds. Another solution is to use the self-timer. In this case, we have standard delay periods of 10 and 2 seconds, as well as a special mode in which we can afford to set the number of shots (max. 10), as well as the duration between them (max. 30 seconds). The G16 also has the ability to start shooting when a new face is detected in the frame (default: the face of the photographer), blinking or smiling.

During studio shooting, we can not only connect external power to the device, but also trigger external flashes using the built-in flash, which works in manual mode, using photocells. Unfortunately, the machine does not offer the user the option to turn off the exposure simulation on the LCD screen.

A unique feature of the device is the hybrid auto shooting mode, which is known to us from the previous model. Its characteristic feature is the ability to automatically record 2-4-second clips before pressing the shutter button. The device makes a film from these clips, which will include a video selection of the events of the day.

Shooting modes

On the camera's shooting mode selector, we will find the following options:

Auto
Auto hybrid mode (movie mode)
P-semi-automatic mode
Tv - shutter priority mode.
Av- Aperture Priority Mode
M - manual mode
C1-C2- user settings
Video mode
Creative Filter Mode
SCN - Special Scene Mode

Menu

G16 has a menu which is organized in a typical compact cameras Canon's way; it is quite clear and functional. It is divided into several groups, which are presented in the form of horizontal tabs. To get to a particular option, we have to scroll through the screen until we find the element we need. Unfortunately, in order to switch to another tab, we must patiently scroll to the beginning or end of the list - there is no possibility of an instant transition. Admittedly, this is not an obstacle, given that by default the device has only one tab with options such as shooting.

To have quick access to My Menu, the camera allows you to change key properties MENU button, so that when it is pressed, not the main menu opens, but only your own, personal one.

Next handy tool, is the FUNC menu, which we can activate by pressing the middle key on the four-way selector (labeled Func/Set). After pressing, a menu appears on the left of the screen, where certain parameters become available for this shooting mode in the form of the displayed icons. Navigation in this menu is possible due to the four-way selector:

Down/up - select the element to change

Left/Right - select element value

Pressing the FUNC/SET button further will turn off the menu and return to the selected shooting mode.

During shooting, the DISP button is used to switch on and off the information available on the screen or also to turn off the screen completely. It must be said that from this point of view, the camera appears in a rather bad light. Of the additional elements displayed on the screen, we have the ability to include a digital grid and a histogram.

In the photo view mode, we have the ability to display additional information in three ways. Displaying basic information on top of the photo itself, a mode with thumbnails adjacent to short blocks of EXIF information and through a histogram, including through an RGBY histogram. The playback mode also works while taking a photo, where we can see a preview of the completed shot if we change the settings from "fast" to 2.4.8 seconds or to infinity in the preview configuration menu.

In the case of movies, with the exception of the clarity control screen, the same views and summaries of information are available to us. We also start the video display, during which we can activate the extension panel (by pressing the SET key). We use this panel to enable pause, fast forward and rewind, as well as edit video. When editing is selected, another panel will appear where we can find the options to extract a fragment of the video and record it as a new clip or save it and replace the original video.

While previewing pictures, you can edit them. Available options:

Change of size
framing
Color Adjustment
Contrast correction
Red Eye Correction

In the case of video, it is possible not only to open, but also to rewind and rewind, move one frame, delete and shorten the clip, by deleting fragments from the beginning and end of the movie.

Naturally, the camera also offers the possibility of zooming in on fragments of the image, as well as switching to thumbnail mode - there is a choice of 3x2, 4x3, 6x6, and 10x10.

An interesting feature is an animated plane that displays photo thumbnails while selecting a large number of photos at the same time. The effect is reminiscent of the way the credits were displayed at the beginning of each part of the Star Wars saga. There is also a mode for organizing pictures by categories.

Just like in the G15, the described camera has an automatic search for similar pictures (the condition for this is at least 50 pictures on the memory card). In short, for each displayed photo, the camera adds and displays about 4 suggestions of similar photos. With the help of a four-position selector, we move from the main photo to the specified one, and the camera will once again offer additions to the specified photo.

Work speed

The camera does not show slowdown during long work, both during menu operation and while viewing photos. The time it takes the camera to change focal length between extremes is also not far behind what we expected. You should pay attention to the speed of autofocus. In this situation, it is really good - the camera focuses very quickly.

Burst shooting

The camera has 2 continuous shooting modes:

Burst of shots (focus and exposure on the first frame)
AF Burst

Other shutter release modes are:

Sequence of sharpnesses (for MF mode) – the camera takes 3 shots: the first one with the sharpness set manually, and the next ones with the sharpness shifted to the far and near position, relative to the first shot.

Self-timer with a delay of 2 and 10 seconds, as well as a program mode that makes it possible to determine the delay (0-30 seconds) and the number of shots (1-10).

Continuous shooting is only available in P, Tv, Av, M, C modes

autofocus

The autofocus system in the Canon G16 is based on contrast identification. We have the following focus modes:

Frame-by-frame
continuous
Servo AF
Manual

We can choose the focus area:

Intelligent face search - the camera detects faces and focuses on them and sets the exposure, as well as white balance, it is possible to select a face if there are more than one in the frame.
FlexiZOne - allows you to freely move around the frame and set the exposure.
Follower

G16 also allows you to detect a smile (with automatic shutter release).

Focusing on the G16 is really fast and accurate. The use of the new processor made it possible to successfully reduce the time of focusing. Suffice it to say that during test shooting, we had no problems with either single mode or continuous AF. In low light, autofocus was assisted by an LED indicator. However, you need to keep in mind that the beam of light that it gives is not so strong, so it will help us only in case of focusing on closely spaced objects.

In manual focus mode, in order to focus, you must use the up / down keys of the four-position selector, or the selector ring. On the right side of the screen in this mode, a special scale will be displayed showing the focusing distance. We also have a magnifying glass at our disposal, which enlarges the part of the picture on which we want to sharpen. Whether the magnifying glass will be active, we can determine this in the settings menu.

Exposure metering

The Canon G16 has the following metering modes:

Estimated
center weighted
Spot (may be linked to AF area)

An essential addition is the built-in ND filter, which we can only use in P, Tv, Av, M and video modes. The strength of this filter corresponds to 3 degrees of aperture and allows you to take pictures in situations where the amount of light is so high that even using the slowest shutter speed leads to overbrightness.

In practice, the evaluation mode (default) in most cases works properly and exposes the photo correctly.

Flash

The built-in flash has a range of 50 cm to 5 m at wide angle, and up to 4.5 m at maximum focal length ( ISO sensitivity Auto). Flash compensation can be adjusted from -2 to 2 EV, in 1/3 EV increments.

Under the right direction button, we will find the settings related to the flash mode.

Auto flash
forced flash
Slow sync
Flash off

The Canon G16 has a flash lock function that we can turn on with the button marked with an asterisk symbol. In addition, in the camera settings, we can choose whether the flash will be synchronized with the 1st or 2nd curtain, and whether the flash will remove red-eye.

Creative modes

The G16 camera has a set of several digital filters:

vintage effect - shot with pale colors
fisheye effect (the strength of the effect is presented as a 3-step scale)
miniature effect
toy camera effect
background defocusing (the strength of the effect is presented in the form of a 4-step scale, and there is also an automatic setting)
soft focus (strength of effect is presented as a 3-step scale)
black and white
super-bright
poster effect

Video recording

The Canon G16 is capable of recording video clips in 2 modes: instant, available in each camera mode, and a separate one that we select on the mode wheel. The difference between them is the number of available options. We start and end the video recording process using a special button on the device.

Canon G16 offers video recording in the following resolutions:

1920 × 1080 at 60 or 30 fps

1280×720 at 30 fps

640×480 at 30 or 120 fps

320×240 at 240 fps

During video recording, the camera allows you to reduce noise, use image stabilization, an ND filter, and white balance settings.

Recording video is easy, and the quality of the resulting material is very good, thanks to the use of 1080/60p mode. The image is detailed, thanks to moderate compression of the material. A speed of 60 frames at the highest resolution ensures that fast-moving objects in the picture come out without blurry edges. We must remember the possibility of using various digital filters that help to create. An interesting detail allows you to create movies with slow motion. The quality of the filter to eliminate noise leaves much to be desired, in contrast to the image stabilization, which works perfectly.

WiFi connection

The Canon G16 is the first G-series model to feature a Wi-Fi wireless network that allows you to:

Internet/social media connection (via CANON iMAGE GATEWAY)
Connecting to a computer, smartphone or tablet so that you can view the captured pictures (when using the CANON CameraWindow app)
Connecting to other cameras

From this it can be seen that the above steps apply to pictures already taken. And in fact - as usual, we do not have the ability to remotely control the camera. It's a pity.

To turn on Wi-fi, you need to enter the image playback mode, and then press the Wi-fi activation button on the camera (focus point selection).

When connecting the camera to a smartphone, no problems were found. In this mode, the camera acts as an access point to which the phone connects. Using the CANON Camera Window application, we can view the pictures (it is more reasonable to use a tablet instead of a smartphone in this case) and set our geographic location. The latter process should be interpreted as a very weak replacement option for the GPS module in the camera itself (the application on the smartphone must be constantly active, which leads to a relatively fast discharge of the phone's battery).

Connecting the camera to wifi networks, we can also send pictures using www.canon.com/cig (CANON iMAGE GATEWAY). It is required to register in advance on this page and specify the data of your model. Then the camera exchanges identification codes with the site (the camera generates keyword, which we enter in the browser, after which we confirm on the camera whether the generated code is identical to the one we see on the computer). If so, then we determine how we want to upload our photos (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr). After this rather complicated procedure, the camera should already upload the photos taken to the appropriate social networks. We have to admit that other than going through the full setup procedure, we weren't able to get the Canon G16 to send a photo on the first try. Software the camera resisted this, showing a message that some (unspecified) services were not configured. Soon after a few days, suddenly, for no particular reason, everything worked.

Face memorization

C16 offers the possibility of remembering 5 faces with a name and date of birth attached to them. Information about recorded faces can be used to prioritize sharpness and exposure. As soon as we enter dates of birth, the camera will automatically focus on a younger person.

Hybrid auto mode

One of the most interesting features is the hybrid mode, which allows, in addition to normal photography in auto mode, to also record 2-4 second video clips in sequence before each shutter button is pressed. The material recorded in this way will be combined into one iFrame file for each day that we took the picture. Thus, this clip will be a short record of the events that forced us to take a photo. Note that audio is also recorded, which means that using this mode will drain the battery faster.

It should be remembered that in order to get interesting video material, before taking a picture, we must work with the camera in an appropriate way. Otherwise, instead of the history of our events, we will get a chaotic video selection.

Image quality

G16 provides the ability to save photos in the following basic resolutions:

L, or 4000x3000,
M1, or 2816x2112,
M2, or 1600x1200,
S, or 640x480

Also in the following formats:

JPEG,
RAW (CR2)
RAW+JPEG.

Pictures in this resolution can be saved in two quality options: good and normal, as well as in several formats with aspect ratio: 4:3, 16:9, 3:2, 4:5 and 1:1.

We can modify JPEG format files using the "My Colors" option:

Bright
Neutral
Sepia
slide simulation
Brighten skin tone
darken skin tone
Bright blue
Bright green
bright red
Manual setting

The latter option allows you to manually add color settings by setting the level of contrast, sharpness and color saturation, the intensity of red, green and blue, as well as skin tones. All these parameters can be set in the range 1-5. The above settings are not available if we want to save pictures in both formats at the same time (JPEG+RAW).

Changing the noise reduction strength leads to an even greater blurring of the picture, which follows from this - loss in photo detail. We have to admit that after this the photo takes on a pastel and pleasing look, of course, if the user is satisfied with the significant loss of photo detail.

white balance

The G16 allows you to set the white balance using the following modes:

Daylight
cloudy
incandescent lamp
Fluorescent lighting
Fluorescent lighting H
Flash
Under water
Manual mode 1
Manual mode 2

In each of the modes listed above, we have the ability to fine-tune the white balance with A-B (orange-blue) and G-M (green-purple) accents in a multi-step range.

Results

Here we have reached the end of the detailed review Canon cameras PowerShot G16. Now it's time to take stock and give the camera a final assessment.

Assembly and functionality

The camera design is compact and durable. Just like in other G-series cameras, it is worth appreciating the high ergonomics. The menu - typical for cameras from this line - is characterized by a fairly clear interface. However, a long scroll through the entire list of settings in order to get to the desired position is a little annoying - especially when we are not sure which group of settings it is in. "My Menu", which allows you to select a few of the most frequently used options - it's very a good idea. However, it is a pity that it offers to choose only 5 positions. The speed of the camera is at a very high level, using the menu and photo viewing mode does not take much time. Available animations (clock, thumbnail highlighting and smart photo selection) show that the built-in microprocessor is working with a bang. The only pity is that this potential was not used for the possibility of high-quality panoramic shooting, as well as photos in 3D.

The autofocus is fast and sharp, thanks to which we can quickly take pictures. High speed shutter operation and a large number of shots, allows you to shoot dynamic scenes. This is a big improvement on the G15, where burst shooting was just awful. The device has a set of interesting filters that we can use not only when taking pictures, but also when shooting video. The video is of good quality and the creation of clips in slow motion can be used creatively. The only pity is that the sound filter does not work effectively.

New to this model is wireless connectivity. We got the impression that you function is not fully thought out. Of course, we can send our photo to the social. Net. To do this, the camera needs access to WIFI networks(shared hotspot or via smartphone connection) and a configured Canon iMage Gateway service. Lacks the ability to control the camera using a smartphone or tablet. Of course, we mean the shooting process itself, viewing photos on the tablet works fine.

Once again, we have doubts about the optical viewfinder. In times when the quality of electronic viewfinders is already at a high level, using a small tunnel viewfinder is inconvenient.

Optics

The conclusions will be short, besides, there is nothing to talk about. The camera has the same lens that was on the G15. Its characteristic is poor angular resolution, high distortion, visual vignettes and chromatic aberration. It would be nice if a corrected design appears in the next model. The quality itself is too low for today's standards.

Matrix

Although BSI technology was used, presented to us as an advantage, during the operation of the matrix it was rather a disadvantage. Moreover, this matrix makes even more noise than in the G15. On the other hand, the data conversion algorithm that compresses the JPEG works fine and creates an image that many will find excellent in quality, so we get the quality that is not worse than in G15.

The assembly and ergonomics of the camera does not differ from the previous model. Is the calculation made for the usual buyer or is it a desire to limit the cost of camera construction? We have the impression that we are talking about the second. The addition of the WIFi function, we consider as something completely normal on this moment. New processor and matrix? As far as the processor brings a fresh stream, the same matrix shows how great it is possible not to work on BSI technology. Thinking it over again, we see the G16 as a good deal (the same as the previous model, ie the G15) for people buying their first camera. Is it worth changing the G15 to the described model? Our opinion is no.

At the end, here is a list of the most important advantages and disadvantages of the camera:

Advantages

Convenient focal length range
Good resolution jpegs
Slight vignetting and coma at longer focal lengths
Ability to record photos in RAW format
Convenient and intuitive operation
Large LCD screen
Sharp and fast autofocus
Video in FULL HD quality
Interesting digital filters
User-friendly function menu
HDMI port
Rugged housing
Ability to descend from a distance
Ability to use an external flash

Flaws:

Intense jpeg noise at highest sensitivity
Relatively large distortion and chromatic aberration at short focal lengths
Poor lens resolution
Noticeable vignetting for wide angle shooting
Noticeable glare when working in direct sunlight
No proximity sensor in viewfinder
Lack of panoramic shooting
Lack of 3D mode
Lack of remote control capability when connected to WIFI

The PowerShot SX720 HS is a super zoom digital camera released by Canon in March 2016. The model belongs to the line of cameras for travel, as evidenced by its compactness and low weight.

This camera has become the thinnest and lightest among the rest of the company's devices - in size it does not exceed a deck of cards, and weighs less than a medium-sized apple. Such a device will great gift for amateur photographers or active travelers who want to capture the most interesting moments of their lives.

General information about the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS

A magnifying glass that magnifies objects by 40 times is suitable even for professional jewelers. A 300-gram camera that zooms in 40 times surprises even spies.

Standard equipment includes the following items:

Camera.
USB cable for charging.
Charger.
1250 mAh battery.
Wrist strap.
Instructions for the camera in different languages.

Advice : before using the device, read the instructions, or better - take it with you. This is not just a manual that tells you what this device consists of - it is a guide to the world of photography that will explain how to properly set up your camera to get fantastic shots in different conditions.

main parameters

The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS has some of the the best performance among several lines digital cameras. It is able to provide high-quality shooting of photos and videos in low light conditions or constant movement, and, in addition, provides for the possibility of manual adjustment.

Matrix

The number of pixels is 20.3 million. The camera takes pictures with a resolution of 1.920x1.080 to 5.184x3.888 pixels, which allows you to enlarge the photo with minimal distortion and print pictures on large canvases.
Type - BSI CMOS. Such a matrix is characterized by low power consumption and increased photolatitude.
The size is 1/2.3". Noise may appear in pictures taken in low light conditions.
Sensitivity - automatically adjusted depending on the mode or manually, range - 80-3200 ISO. Allows you to take photos in different conditions, but in order to avoid noise, it is recommended to shoot at ISO 800+ only in poor lighting or in cloudy weather.

Lens

This model received the most powerful lens among digital cameras, capable of magnifying the image by 40 times (in 11 seconds it goes from the smallest position to the largest). Among its other advantages, it is worth noting the presence of an optical image stabilization system and the ability to double the range of focal lengths using the ZoomPlus software function.

Unfortunately until the manufacturer manages to strengthen the stabilization system so that the photos with the maximum approximation are less blurry, so shooting with a 30+ zoom is only worth using a tripod.

It is also important to note that during video shooting, the sound of the lens movement is heard in the background at the moment of increasing / decreasing the focal length. But there is also an advantage - the stabilization system is able to master the zoom control, so the image approaches and moves away smoothly, and not jerkily, as in previous models.

Taking photos

The camera has been tested in all shooting modes, in different lighting conditions, with maximum, medium and minimum zoom, handheld and using a tripod..

As you know, to get a good photo, you need to choose the right shooting settings. In this model, Canon provides such an opportunity, because it can be adjusted:

flash;
shooting mode;
zoom, focus and backlight;
frame format and size;
white balance and color brightness;
displaying the grid on the screen;
using a timer;
ISO setting and exposure;
applying effects.

At correct selection mode, high quality photos are obtained. So, if you want to take a picture of a small object up close, you need to use the macro mode. It automatically turns the flash on or off, adjusts the aperture, reduces the shutter speed and allows you to focus at a small distance from the subject.

Advantages:

In automatic shooting modes, good shots are obtained.
The stabilization system prevents lubrication.
There is a function of recognition of faces, smiles, etc.
Fast burst shooting - 5.9 fps.
The ability to fully customize the frame: from the focus area to the size of the photo.

Shooting video

The PowerShot SX720 HS allows you to shoot 29-minute clips with maximum speed 60 frames per second, with it you can record clear Full HD or HD videos.

Thanks to Intelligent Dynamic Stabilization, you can shoot videos on the go, as it compensates for camera shake in five axes and is able to guarantee smooth shooting handheld or in other awkward positions.

The video does not slow down and moves smoothly even while adjusting the focal length. The only big downside is the microphone, which doesn't filter out external sounds well, leaving wind noise and other interference in the background of your voice.

This model shoots video in MP4 format with a maximum resolution of 1920x1080 pixels.

Focusing

In single-frame or continuous shooting mode, it takes no more than 0.4 s to automatically adjust the focus. This figure drops significantly when working at maximum zoom and slows down the focus adjustment by almost 10 times.

Note : As with other cameras, including SLRs, the user may experience problems with the automatic selection of the adjustment area when the focus is not on the subject that is the main one in the picture. You can solve the problem if you build the frame correctly and select the parameters - for example, put the object in the center of the photo and select the central focus in the settings.

Display

Another advantage of the camera is a three-inch display with a resolution of 922,000 dots. It is also worth noting that the shooting process is displayed directly on the screen, which is very important for novice photographers. When selecting effects or adjusting certain parameters, the display shows the selected changes, allowing you to see how the frame will change.

Under direct sunlight, 85% of the information is displayed on the screen.

Memory

The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS has no built-in memory. The solution to this problem is SDHC*1*2 or SDXC*1*2 memory cards.

Advice : to correctly choose the size of a memory card, keep in mind that one photo with the maximum resolution takes about 6-7 MB, that is, about 143 pictures for every free gigabyte.

Food

This is one of the few digital cameras that runs on batteries instead of batteries. With a single charge, you can take about 250 shots (about 230 with flash) or a 92-minute video. This is a fairly low figure, especially for a travel camera, so it's worth buying a spare battery.

Comparison with previous models of this line

Comparison with similar cameras from other manufacturers

We selected models from Nikon and Sony with the most similar parameters. Superzooms, compact travel cameras, which one is better?

Canon camera PowerShot SX720 HS is the most convenient and functional among similar models from other companies. Perhaps that is why its price is about 20% higher than that of competitors.

Conclusion

The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a good option for beginner photographers. The lack of manual adjustment of some parameters compensates for the large number of shooting modes. A strong zoom is useful for those who often visit beautiful places and want to see them in the smallest details.

Let your travels be more vivid and memorable with the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS, and if you have any questions, I will gladly try to answer them.

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During the test tests, the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II excelled in high performance, concluded in convenient format. First of all, the image quality is convincing here, which allows you to get noise-free photos in both daylight and twilight. The speed and autofocus are also convincing here, but the equipment, as well as the fast 3x zoom, could, on the contrary, be better.

Advantages

very good quality Images
fast burst shooting
fast autofocus
touch screen, WLAN and NFC
comfortable case

Flaws

the lens is fast only in wide angles
little new

Price-quality ratio
Excellent
Place in the overall ranking
23 out of 58

Value for money: 81
Image quality (50%): 92.1
Equipment and management (40%): 72.1
Performance (10%): 75.9

Editorial rating

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Canon Powershot G9 X Mark II: small and great image

The Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II promises high performance in a compact format. The electronic heart of this camera is a 1-inch 20 megapixel sensor, which is as popular in the creative camera segment as Justin Bieber is with teenagers. This is not surprising, since here you can get DSLR-like quality at a trouser-pocket-friendly weight of 206 grams.

In addition, there is a 3x zoom providing flexibility in use, as well as such modern instruments, like a WLAN module and a touch screen. Sounds good, but somehow it's all too reminiscent of the previous model. And what is the innovation of the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II? To find them, you have to use a magnifying glass.

Connoisseurs of this model range immediately catch the eye of 2 things. First, it is Bluetooth. In addition to WLAN and NFC for wireless transmission data and remote control Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II gains the ability to establish another kind of permanent connection with a smartphone or tablet. However, although this greatly facilitates communication with smart devices, and also, among other things, makes it possible to add GPS information to the EXIF data of a photo, it also has a serious negative impact on the length of time battery life.

With a maximum of 230 shots, the G9 X Mark II takes about 50 fewer shots than its predecessor. Fortunately, there is a USB charging function. Instead of "parking" the battery in the supplied charger and paralyzing the camera for several hours, you can take advantage of the additional power from the power bank. Practical!

Canon Powershot G9 X Mark II: Speed

Other improvements only show up on closer inspection. For example, the speed of work. The current Digic 7 processor allowed not only to halve the pause between taking two photos, but also reduced the turn-on time of the device by about one second. Given the power consumption of the camera, we recommend that you turn off the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II during pauses and put up with a 1.4 second wait before the device is ready to take the first shot.

In the future, you may be pleased with the pace of continuous shooting: 8 frames per second - this figure sounds solid and even for a sports photo shoot means a good buffer. 38 JPEGs and 21 RAWs per burst is a decent amount of time for a camera in this class. However, more than 100 JPEGs per series of the previous model still sound better.

Known in half new packaging

All the good things are preserved in the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II, even with innovations. Including the generally very good image quality remains consistently good. That is almost: 1730 line pairs per frame height in the center of the image show slightly better sharpness. The same setting, but at the edge of the image adds a little more than 100 units compared to the previous model and is now 1275 line pairs. However, a resolution loss of around 26 percent is disappointing.

The 3x zoom with OIS and 28-84mm focal length range could have been better in small format. And have a larger aperture, because if f / 2.0 is available in the wide-angle position, then in the tele-position, the open aperture is rather weak - f / 4.9. In this regard, cameras such as Panasonic Lumix LX15 show higher quality. Also, the fact that the integrated ND filter returns three stops of "swallowed" exposure only makes sense at wide angle.

Speed

Canon Powershot G9 X Mark II: little new

Most likely, many will think: no problem, I'll just immediately raise the sensitivity a little higher. Good. But at the latest when shooting indoors and, accordingly, with ISO from 1600, the pictures look noticeably less detailed and noisy. In this case, it is recommended to use one of the 14 filters, such as "Sepia Toning" or "Miniature Effect" - by the way, image processing is done directly in the camera.

When shooting video in Full-HD resolution at 60 frames per second with stereo sound, however, the use of filters will have to be abandoned. But many will like fast and continuous focusing. The same applies to photographs: autofocus for focusing needs less than 0.3 s, both in daylight and in twilight. Excellent! Good impression It also produces touch control, with which you can move the focus point on the 3-inch high-resolution display with one touch of your finger, and then directly trigger the shutter from there.

Overall, the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II proved to be a decent creative camera in our test results, but of course it would be great to see more innovations in it. In our opinion, the presence of Bluetooth and the ability to charge via a USB port are unlikely to induce any of the owners to go for an exchange. However, those who will choose between these two models should choose Mark II.

Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II: manual and automatic exposure modes invite you to play with them

F4, 1/80s, ISO 125

F4, 1/250s, ISO 400

F4, 1/500s, ISO800

F4, 1/1000 s, ISO 1600

F5, 1/1250 c, ISO 3200

F7.1, 1/1250s, ISO 6400

Alternative: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15

Similar in size, similar in price - but better performance: The Panasonic Lumix LX15 convinces with its faster lens, higher image quality and advanced video mode with Ultra-HD recording capability. The extra charge for Lumix is worth it.

Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II test results

Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II specifications and test results

Price-quality ratio	81
Camera type	creative
Maximum Resolution	20.0 MP
Max. photo resolution	5.472 x 3.648 pixels
Max. video resolution	1.920 x 1.080 pixels
Display: diagonal	3.0 inch touch screen
Display: resolution	1.040.000 subpixels
Display: rotary	-
Display: brightness adjustment	Yes
Matrix: type	CMOS
Matrix: size	1 inch
optical zoom	3.0x
Minimum focal length	10.2 mm;
Maximum focal length	30.6 mm;
Optical Image Stabilizer	with movable matrix
Lens Aperture (Wide - Tele)	1:2 — 1:4.9
Shooting modes	auto, program, aperture priority, shutter speed, manual
Panorama shooting mode	-
Minimum shutter speed (auto)	1/2.000 c
Maximum shutter speed (auto)	30.00 s
Minimum light sensitivity (ISO min)	ISO 125
Maximum light sensitivity (ISO max)	ISO 12.800
white balance	preset, manual setting
Center resolution at ISO min	1,730 line pairs
Edge resolution at ISO min	1.275 line pairs
Center resolution at ISO 400	1.602 line pairs
Edge resolution at ISO 400	1.194 line pairs
Center resolution at ISO 800	1.573 line pairs
Edge resolution at ISO 800	1.145 line pairs
Center resolution at ISO 1600	1.467 line pairs
Edge resolution at ISO 1600	1.063 line pairs
Texture Accuracy (Kurtosis) / Details (Dead Leaves) @ ISO Min	40 %
Texture (Kurtosis) / Detail (Dead Leaves) accuracy at ISO 400	84 %
Texture (Kurtosis) / Detail (Dead Leaves) accuracy at ISO 800	79 %
Texture (Kurtosis) / Detail (Dead Leaves) accuracy at ISO 1600	78 %
Expert Judgment: Detail at ISO Min	good (1.5)
Expert Judgment: Detail at ISO 400	good (1.9)
Expert Judgment: Detail at ISO 800	good (2.6)
Expert judgement: ISO 1600 detail	satisfactory (3.8)
Noise at ISO min	1.43VN (1.5VN1, 0.8VN3)
Noise at ISO 400	1.91 VN (2.00 VN1, 1.10 VN3)
Noise at ISO 800	2.28 VN (2.40 VN1, 1.20 VN3)
Noise at ISO 1600	2.65 VN (2.80 VN1, 1.30 VN3)
Max. Chromatic Aberration (Wide/Tele)	0.39 / 0.54 pixels
Vignetting (Wide/Tele)	0.5 / 0.4 steps
Distortion (Wide/Tele)	-0,1 / -0,3 %
Image formats	JPEG, RAW+JPEG
Turn-on time (before taking the first photo)	1.4 s
Shutter-release delay at wide angle (with autofocus)	0.26 s
Shutter delay at telephoto (with autofocus)	0.22 s
Pause between two consecutive frames	0.6 s
JPEG Burst Speed	8.0 fps
Maximum burst length in JPEG	38 frames
Battery name	NB-13L
Battery cost	60 euro
Photos on a single battery charge	230 photos
Video: max. recording time per battery charge	97 min
Video: container	MP4
Video: codecs	H.264
Video: maximum video length	30 minutes
Supported memory cards	SDXC
Built-in storage	-
hot shoe	-
GPS receiver	-
Orientation sensor	single axis
Waterproof housing	-
Dimensions	98 x 58 x 31mm;
The weight	206 g