Huge power, small stature – Canon's Powershot S2 IS
Like the Nikon D50, Canon’s Powershot S2 IS aims to combine the quality of SLR cameras into digital cameras. Unlike its competitor however, Canon believes that some of the compact functionality of ordinary digital cameras can be retained whilst still offering the power of larger counterparts. The S2 IS uses the same DIGIC II processor as Canon’s SLR cameras, which improves colour rendition and white balance accuracy, and speeds up playback review and scrolling. It has a 1.8" LCD screen, is capable of 5.0 megapixel images and up to 60 minutes of video with stereo sound. The speed of the autofocus has been reduced to about half that of its predecessor, the S1 IS.
Eighteen shooting modes and shutter speeds down to 1/3200 of a second make this camera a close competitor to an SLR but still retains practical USB 2.0 connectivity. The S2 IS comes equipped with powerful zoom (36 – 432mmf f/2.7-f.3.5) that is enhanced by the optical Image Stabliser (IS). The IS also features a number of settings to suit the type of shot you are taking and lets the user take longer exposure shots in low light condition where the flash is inappropriate with out worrying too much about motion blur. An Ultra-low Dispersion lens element provides faithful colour reproduction and sharp definition.
Further interesting features include video slow-motion replay and the ‘My Colours’ function which allows the user to manipulate colour effect whilst shooting. There is also the ability to snap ordinary high quality pics whilst filming videos by simply pressing the shutter release. The S2 IS has an integrated flash and comes with a 16MB SD card (though you’ll probably want to upgrade that asap).
The PowerShot S2 IS will be available from early June for £469and with any luck Canon will release a picture of it soon so we can all have an ogle.
