Canon Powershot G10 Preview

Canon’s latest G-Series is a sexy, 14.7-megapixel high-end compact digital camera. Looking more like a serious rangefinder than ever, the Canon PowerShot G10 has a 5x wide-angle optical zoom lens (28 - 140mm equivalent) with optical image stabilization, Servo AF auto focus, DIGIC 4 image processing, RAW shooting, and a 3-inch LCD display. Canon also claims better noise reduction, which should mean better image quality at higher ISO settings, making faster shutter speeds possible as well as improving low-light photography.I have to say, the G10’s looks have me feeling a little more lusty than I usually am for compact cameras. I am curious if it feels as substantial as it looks. The grip and the knobs have a very serious form-follows-function design that I like. I don’t like to get too caught up in camera look and feel. But sometimes style speaks. And the G10 is saying - “Love me. Hold me. Caress Me.”


Most interesting to me are the G10’s 28mm equivalent wide-angle lens and the Servo AF auto focus. One of my main complaints when I reviewed the G9
was the lens wasn’t wide enough. And I think a 28mm wide end takes care of that problem. Regarding the Servo AF feature - there are a lot of pro photographers anxiously waiting for a compact camera that can perform like a DSLR. A couple of the missing elements are reaction time and auto focus performance. The PowerShot G10 looks like it may have significant improvements in those areas. Servo AF is an indicator of Canon’s intention to make this a high-performance camera. But as always, it’s best to reserve judgment until we have an actual camera in-hand to test. Right now all we can do is speculate

Control Options

The controller wheel is equipped with a dedicated Exposure Compensation Dial, which allows quick and intuitive adjustment of exposure compensation and the “My Menu” function for registering five user-selected options from the shooting menu, as well as 26 shooting modes. Additionally, the Custom Mode better allows the user to record two types of shooting parameter settings, thus offering the ability to arrange their most often used settings on their LCD display. A host of accessory options are offered, including the remote switch, Macro Ring Lite and Macro Twin Lite (when used with an additional attachment, available in January 2009). Now consumers can utilize similar accessories found in the Canon EOS line, therefore expanding a user’s ability to customize.

Canon DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor

The newly upgraded DIGIC 4 image processor, a proprietary technology, accounts for the camera’s higher performance levels, including significantly improved signal processing speed and higher image quality.

One of the most important new features made possible by the DIGIC 4 image processor is Servo AF, which is a form of continuous focus tracking for moving subjects. By pressing the shutter button half-way, the camera can track subject movement up to the instant of exposure, resulting in sharper photographs. Additionally, the processor’s high ISO speed noise reduction processing has improved substantially to enable consumers to shoot high-quality images, even in extremely dark situations without the use of a flash. The new Intelligent Contrast Correction function automatically improves image quality in high-contrast shooting situations.

The Genuine Canon Face Detection technology has evolved even further, thanks to DIGIC 4. Improved features include the ability to recognize human faces at most angles. Another innovation is the Face Detection Self-Timer, which automatically takes a photo two seconds after a new face enters the scene.

Availability and Pricing

Scheduled to be available in October, the PowerShot G10 digital camera will have an estimated selling price of $499.99*. Kit contents will include a battery, charger, neck strap, USB and A/V interface cables, Canon Digital Solutions Software CD, and a 1-year Canon U.S.A., Inc. limited warranty.

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Source: http://reviews.photographyreview.com/blog/canon-powershot-g10/2/