Canon PowerShot S3 IS

Canon-Powershot-S3-Is The Canon PowerShot S3 IS is a 12x Optical Zoom camera (with image stabilization) with a 6 megapixel sensor that Canon is promoting as a 'family friendly' digital camera.

It shoots video at 30 frames per second (with stereo sound) which allows you to shoot video and take pictures simultaneously using their new MovieSnap features.

The S3 IS comes with a 2.0 inch Vari-Angle LCD and USB 2.0.

Expect to see the Canon PowerShot S3 IS in stores in May for an estimated retail price of $499.99 (USD).

Compare prices on the Canon Powershot S3 IS and get the latest price on the S3 IS at Amazon.

Canon PowerShot S3 IS News Release

Canon's New PowerShot S3 IS Digital Camera Captures High Resolution Photos with a 12x IS Zoom Lens for Images Shaken Not Blurred

Family-Friendly Digital Camera Combines Versatility and Simplicity, Movies and Stills and Brings the Very Far Very Near and Keeps It Very Clear

The family-oriented Canon PowerShot S3 IS is a feature-packed six-megapixel hybrid digital camera that is equally at home with photo enthusiasts and digital diehards as it is in the hands of the point-and-shoot "where do I press?" set. Remarkably, whether engaged in VGA quality videography at 30 frames-per-second (fps) with stereo sound recording, high-resolution still photography, or capturing both at the same time, this affordable and adaptable camera remains the ultimate example of "easy to use."

The successor to the five megapixel PowerShot S2 IS digital camera, the PowerShot S3 IS enhancements begin with Canon's newly designed six-megapixel image sensor that together with Canon's proprietary DIGIC II image processor dramatically reduces "noise" for better image quality and achieves ISO equivalent speed ratings ranging from 80 to 800. This increased sensitivity allows the use of faster shutter speeds, thereby reducing the effects of camera shake and subject blur during hand-held photography in low light.

Adding to that unshakeable quality is the PowerShot S3 IS digital camera's shift-type optical image stabilization system. Unlike electronic image stabilizer systems that typically cause degradation of image quality, Canon based its Lens Shift type of Image Stabilizer system on the advancements in the development and refinement of Canon's EF and video lenses.

This Image Stabilizer provides up to three stops of camera shake correction in shutter speed equivalent. It is essential when engaging the camera's retractable 12x optical zoom lens because the extension of a long lens magnifies camera shake in direct proportion with the amount of lens magnification employed. (For those seeking still greater optical capabilities, Canon offers an optional 1.5x Tele Converter, a 0.75x Wide Converter and a high-quality dual element Close-up Lens).

The PowerShot S3 IS digital camera's 12x zoom lens has an equivalent film focal length of 36-432 mm (f/2.7 at wide angle and f/3.5 at telephoto). Despite the extraordinary range of the zoom lens, it retracts securely into the camera when it is powered down. The optical zoom can be augmented by the camera's 4x digital zoom raising the maximum (35mm equivalent) focal length to that of a 1728mm lens. What's more, this UD lens features a high-speed silent zoom function powered by a micro motor USM drive, increasing ease of quiet, non-intrusive image capture. For extreme close-ups, the camera's macro and super macro mode permit shooting a subject as close as 0-inches from the end of the lens barrel.

Movie Mode

In addition to recording in high-quality VGA (640 x 480 pixels) movie mode at 30 fps, the user can increase the frame speed to 60 fps in QVGA (320 x 240) movie mode. Similarly, the camera also features a QVGA 320 x 240-pixel setting with a choice of 30 or 15 fps. Continuous movie recording is possible up to a maximum file size of 1GB or 60 minutes, whichever comes first, (depending on the capacity of the user's memory card and its data write speed). What's more, regardless of the mode dial position or even whether the camera is in capture or playback mode, the PowerShot S3 IS camera automatically starts and stops recording movies with the simple press of a button on the camera back.

MovieSnap

Newly enhanced for the PowerShot S3 IS digital camera thanks to the model's new six megapixel image sensor, MovieSnap enables the user to capture high-resolution six megapixel still images while recording movies, ensuring that memories of milestones are preserved for video view as well as for picture frames, photo albums and email sharing.

True to its hybrid nature, the PowerShot S3 IS camera's larger 2.0 inch Vari-Angle LCD screen swings out (as is common on video cameras) permitting the user to compose shots including self-portraits without having to twist and maneuver into uncomfortable positions.

DIGIC II Image Processing Technology- Hi-Speed USB 2.0

True to the PowerShot tradition, the PowerShot S3 IS digital camera has many of the latest advances in Canon technology including the proprietary DIGIC II imaging processor. The processor enhances picture definition, vibrancy, and quality, while helping increase the speed of the cameras' startup, autofocus, shutter response, playback, and image processing speed while reducing power consumption by 35 percent compared to the original DIGIC chip. Consumers benefit from accelerated image transfer speed (when used with a USB 2.0 compatible computer, printer, or other peripheral), thanks to the inclusion of a Hi-Speed USB 2.0 port. The USB 2.0 port is backwards compatible (at no increased speed) with computers featuring standard USB 1.1 connections.

New Features and Special Effects

Canon's PowerShot S3 IS camera features a Sports Mode that allows users to select high shutter speeds and the camera automatically selects the appropriate aperture for capturing beautiful action shots. The camera also includes a new widescreen 16:9 ratio resolution setting that facilitates creating panoramic-style prints.

Additionally, the new model supports 23 languages (now including Thai and Arabic). The S3 IS camera has an improved direct printing function that permits greater flexibility in print settings, including a face brightener setting for backlit photos.

Canon also enhanced the 'My Colors' mode found in the new PowerShot line. Where previously, users could only enable 'My Colors' while shooting, the current iteration permits captured images to be retouched as well, without the need for special software applications or tools. Available My Color playback modes include Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, and Vivid Red; lighter and darker skin tones, as well as options for creating black & white, sepia, neutral and positive film effects. A color accent setting turns all colors but the one selected by the user to monochrome and the color swap mode enables users to alter specific colors in an image by sampling another color from the same image or any other image on the camera's memory card. So, 'My Colors' provides PowerShot users with an incredible range of creative photo effects that can be accessed directly in the camera with no need for post-processing in a computer.

Direct Print

Like all PowerShot digital cameras, the PowerShot S3 IS digital camera works seamlessly with Canon's petite SELPHY Compact Photo Printers - an essential PowerShot accessory. Consumers simply connect their S3 IS digital camera to a SELPHY printer - such as the SELPHY CP510 and CP710 models. Press the lighted Print/Share button, and within seconds(1), images emerge. Presto! It is that simple. Canon's SELPHY Compact Photo Printers are PictBridge compatible. They work with PictBridge enabled digital cameras and offer excellent image quality and ease-of-use, especially when paired with a Canon digital camera. At 28 cents-per-print(2), printing photos directly from a digital camera is both easy and affordable.

Pricing and Availability

Canon's new PowerShot S3 IS digital camera will be available in May for an estimated selling price of $499.99(3).

Canon will debut the new PowerShot S3 IS digital camera in its booth (#3509) during the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) exhibit in Orlando, Fla., from February 26th - March 1st, 2006.

Get the latest price on the Canon PowerShot Pro Series S3 IS

Canon Powershot S3 IS Reviews

Digital Camera Info has a first impression review of the Canon PowerShot S3 IS and writes - 'This PowerShot has an optical image stabilization system that has been one of the main characteristics of the Canon ultra zoom line since its inception. This image stabilization mode works very well and keeps the bumps out of video and the blur out of still images. With the addition of the new ISO 800 setting, the camera adds an additional layer of blur protection, along with increasing the camera�s low light recording capabilities. The camera body has a 2-inch LCD on the back that folds outward and rotates. The screen solarizes, so it must be rotated frequently, but many people like the camcorder style. The Canon PowerShot S3 isn�t an incredible bargain, but does have more pros than cons and is priced right among its competitors at $499.'

Canon PowerShot S3 IS Reviews

DCRP has produced the first review of the Canon PowerShot S3 IS going around and give it a pretty good recommendation (although don't claim it to be the best digital camera going around). They write - 'While not exactly an exciting upgrade over its predecessor, the Canon PowerShot S3 is still an excellent ultra zoom camera that earns my recommendation. It offers just about everything you want in a camera, from a big zoom lens to optical image stabilization to manual controls to a fancy movie mode.... Overall, I really like the PowerShot S3, and it earns my enthusiastic recommendation. Yes, it has a few flaws, but doesn't everything? For people wanting a solid and capable ultra zoom camera, this one should be high on your list.'

CNET reviews the Canon PowerShot S3 IS and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot S3 IS's aesthetic seems to be a cross between those of a classic Volkswagen Beetle and a Busy Box. Granted, it's the same body as its predecessor's, but the silver bits stand out more against the current version's iridescent, dark gray plastic than they did against the previous model's silver coloring. As with the S2, there's certainly enough here to keep you busy for a long time, though, and loving every minute of it.'

Lets Go Digital Reviews the Canon Powershot S3 IS and writes - 'All the positive sides of the PowerShot S2 IS seem to have found their way to its successor. The Canon PowerShot S3 is an exceptionally compact digital camera that is easily carried along. The DIGIC II processor ensures a fast and proper processing of the image information, just as was the case with its predecessor. The Canon S3 IS camera can be equipped with a variety of accessories, such as an external HF-DC1 flash, a tele converter, a wide-angle adapter and a lens hood.'

Popular Photography Magazine reviews the Pentax Optio W10 and writes - 'There are 25 shooting modes that preset the camera to a given situation, including Underwater and Underwater Movie. These modes simply utilize a blue filter. Even in Program mode, we had to adjust levels and curves to remove blue cast from our underwater test shots. We'd prefer if the Underwater mode would set the camera to Pan Focusing mode, and set the fastest possible shutter speed to better freeze moving subjects in the water. Although there is an ocean of 6MP compacts on the market at the moment, not many are capable of handling the wet and the weather like the Pentax Optio W10. If you want a seaworthy compact camera, you really can't go wrong with this one.'

DP Review has posted their review of the Canon PowerShot S3 IS where they give it a rating of 'highly recommended' and give it good scores. They write - 'And so to the rating. There was a part of me that felt slightly disappointed that the S3 IS was such a minor upgrade, and that the new high ISO mode added so little. But there are some subtle but important improvements, and the S2 IS was a worthy recipient of its Highly Recommended rating. There are cameras out there that offer slightly better image quality (certainly in terms of sharpness), and I'm pretty convinced that the Panasonic image stabilization system is slightly more effective, but taken as a whole there is nothing out there that offers the feature set, handling and sheer fun factor of the S3 IS, and so it still - just - keeps hold of our top rating.'

Steves Digicams reviews the Canon Powershot S3 IS and writes - 'Like its predecessor the S2, the PowerShot S3 IS is a very capable entrant in the megazoom digicam market. With 6-megapixels of resolution, a high-quality image-stabilized 36-432mm zoom lens, very good image quality and industry-leading support for moving images, the S3 IS offers a compelling combination of quality and versatility. It will please both the beginner and the advanced photographer with its consistently well-exposed and sharp results. The S3 IS presents a worthy alternative for consumer digicam users considering an upgrade to a consumer dSLR. While its image quality, responsiveness and viewfinder quality are not quite up to dSLR standards, the S3's versatility, especially its movie mode and articulating LCD viewfinder, is unmatched by any dSLR available today. If you have a need for megazoom focal lengths, the S3 IS also represents a terrific value; while dSLR image-stabilized long focal length lenses sell for thousands of dollars, the S3 IS can be had for under $500, image-stabilized zoom lens included.'

Digital Camera Info reviews the Canon PowerShot S3 IS and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot S3 IS comes to the ultra-zoom digital camera market with a unique set of features. It has the 12x optical zoom lens that qualifies it as part of the ultra-zoom market and couples it with an optical image stabilization system that works incredibly well. Canon put the lens on a chunky SLR-shaped body that looks almost professional with its black finish. The S3 has lots of options in its movie mode that aren’t available on any other digital camera and includes dual recording buttons so users can snap full-resolution pictures in the middle of a video clip. The optical zoom functions in the movie mode – and even looks smooth with the image stabilization system activated. Users can adjust everything from the audio sampling rate to the microphone level and wind filter feature. The still recording features are just as extensive. Full manual control is available, although the manual focusing feature is difficult to execute with the poor viewfinder and LCD resolution.'

Imaging Resource has a review of the Canon PowerShot S3 IS and writes, "The Canon S3 IS doesn't keep you waiting: Not when you start it up (even though the lens has to extend); not when you've taken a shot; not when you're shooting in Continuous mode; and not when you're shutting down. ... It isn't instant, like a digital SLR, but I never felt like I had to wait for it. And not having to wait meant I felt free to turn it on or off at will. When it takes a camera a long time to start up or shut down, I just let the power management routine put it to sleep so a half-press of the shutter button wakes the camera up. With cameras that have extendable lenses, this is a risky strategy. But the PowerShot S3 IS was quick enough to shut down and start up, and the lens extends and retracts quietly."

From DCViews. On the S3 IS's image quality: " Thee Powershot S3 handles the most common exposure situations very well, although there is a small tendency to blow out highlights. The colors are a bit warmer (yellow) than those of the Sony H5. The S3 has one megapixel less than the H5 and in some situations detail is a bit less than with the H5. The default sharpening in the camera is a bit high, but can be adjusted by the user."

PCMag has a review up of the Canon PowerShot S3 IS and writes, "The lack of barrel distortion, especially on a superzoom, is impressive. Because of the wide zoom range - 12X optical - you'd expect at least some on the wide-angle end of the zoom range, but I saw almost none. There was also no noticeable pincushion distortion at the telephoto end. ... Within the Canon system, IS stands for image stabilization, which can be turned on to avoid blurry shots when you've zoomed in to its maximum zoom range. The S3 IS has three types of IS: continuous, panning, and shoot-only. In both low and bright light, all three seemed to do the job."

Luminous Landscape has posted their review of the Canon Powershot S3 IS and writes - 'The Canon S3's strength lies in its small size and long zoom reach, combined with Image Stabilization. While not a pocket digicam, it is coat pocket size, and therefore quite inconspicuous and portable. The use of AA batteries adds to the versatility, and a very high quality movie mode with a dedicated activation button are icing on the cake. At under US $500 retail this camera is a relative bargain. No, it's not an alternative to the current generation of sub $500 DSLRs, but given its features it is capable of adding some interesting new capabilities to many a photographer's bag of tricks.'

Trusted Reviews has a review of the Canon PowerShot S3 IS and writes, "Image quality is also superb. Despite only having a tiny 1/2.5in sensor, pictures are impressively sharp and detailed, far more than I would expect from a 6MP camera. In fact I’ve seen 8MP models that can’t match the S3 for fine detail, and this is undoubtedly due to the excellent lens. It is pin-sharp from edge to edge at all focal lengths, produces minimal wide-angle barrel distortion, and its fast maximum aperture ensures good shutter speeds at long focal lengths. Combined with the fast AF it provides pin-sharp shots even of distant moving subjects. ... The Canon PowerShot S3 IS is arguably the best value super-zoom camera currently available. It combines great handling, ultra-fast performance and real photographic versatility with superior image quality and one of the best zoom lenses I’ve seen on a compact. It may look like a bag of spanners, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder."

Compare prices on the Canon Powershot S3 IS and get the latest price on the S3 IS at Amazon.

Posted by Darren in our Canon category on February 21, 2006

Comments

I recently got a Powershot S3 and quite happy with it.

I researched the digital world extensively, desiring to upgrade from my trusty Kodak DX 3215, but it was quite limited and I needed something more robust. I looked into obtaining a strict DSLR, but the prices are in the high hundreds and low thousands...out of my price range. And I wanted the capability of shooting video. The S3 had everytning I desired...and more. The movie feature is quite nice, even at it's lowest settings.

Baseline prices were averaging around $399.00, with small variations. On-line deals were slightly better, but not much. I saw an ad from OfficeMax offering the S3 for $369.00 - with an instant $30.00 in-store rebate. They threw in a free 512mb SD card and the option to purchase a $100.00 Canon photo printer for $30.00. I took the offer, but declined the extended warrenty of $79.00 for two years. I am happy with the purchase.

It has plenty of zoom (12x), and takes very good images, and the sharpness of the images are quite good. I have plenty of experience with my old 35mm Nikon film camera, and the S3 exceeds it in many areas. I do not miss at all lugging around various lenses and accessories, and this camera has plenty of features to satisfy the photographer.

I have experimented with the manual controls and find them exceptional, with real time results. And as an additional benefit, everybody who has seen it, has complimented me on the purchase...even die hard strict DSLR users. I will look into aftermarket Lens hoods and tele-converters to enhance the performance.

ASTROPHOGRAPHY -

I needed a camera for astrophotography, and I hope this one will seve well, but one observation...

It's remarkable that I have been able to record stars, constellations and nebulae with just the camera lens, but I find it bothersome that I cannot focus stars down to pin points, it just stops short. I don't know if this is inherent to all digital cameras, but maybe it's just mine.

There are examples of my practice begining astrophotography efforts with the Powershot S3 here:

http://astronomer.proboards23.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=ps3&thread=1166148281&page=1

and here

http://astronomer.proboards23.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=ps3&thread=1166148281&page=1

Other than the difficulties of obtaining pin point stars, I highly recommend this camera.

Respectfully,

Chicago Astronomer Joe
Administrator
www.chicagoastronomer.com

Posted by: Chicago Astronomer Joe at December 17, 2006 04:17 PM

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