Canon targets bigger share of HD camcorder market

Canon Inc is focusing its efforts this year on capturing a larger slice of the High-Definition (HD) camcorder market. It is shifting its focus from SD (standard-definition) camcorders.

It said that currently sales of the SD vs HD cameras is about 60/40 but expects the difference to even out this year as the demand for HD continues to grow. The demand is in line with the increasing popularity of HD TVs and monitors worldwide.

"Also, we are seeing a growing demand for HD recording devices, which include flip cameras and mirrorless-system cameras, as the prices for these products get more affordable," said Edakubo Hiroo, group executive for Canon's video products group.


The camera maker is also shoehorning professional-grade features into its mid-range consumer products.

Yoshito Okada, general manager for its video products marketing management division, said the Canon XA10 and Legria HF G10 will have a full megapixel HD CMOS Pro sensor.

"This is the same sensor that we use in our range of cameras aimed at professionals, and offers greater light sensitivity and dynamic range," he said.

It is also introducing new features, such as Cinema Style, on its Legria camcorders.

"Cinema Style enables consumers to use filters to add various artistic effects to their videos," Okada explained. There is also a Story Creator feature that makes it easy for users to edit videos on the camcorder.

Canon hopes that the introduction of these new cameras and unique features will set its products further apart from those of its competitors, as well as help it boost its share of the camcorder market.

It recently launched a slew of products at its headquarters here. Journalists attending from several other countries were also given a tour of the production line.

Canon targets bigger share of HD camcorder market

Canon Inc is focusing its efforts this year on capturing a larger slice of the High-Definition (HD) camcorder market. It is shifting its focus from SD (standard-definition) camcorders.

It said that currently sales of the SD vs HD cameras is about 60/40 but expects the difference to even out this year as the demand for HD continues to grow. The demand is in line with the increasing popularity of HD TVs and monitors worldwide.

"Also, we are seeing a growing demand for HD recording devices, which include flip cameras and mirrorless-system cameras, as the prices for these products get more affordable," said Edakubo Hiroo, group executive for Canon's video products group.


The camera maker is also shoehorning professional-grade features into its mid-range consumer products.

Yoshito Okada, general manager for its video products marketing management division, said the Canon XA10 and Legria HF G10 will have a full megapixel HD CMOS Pro sensor.

"This is the same sensor that we use in our range of cameras aimed at professionals, and offers greater light sensitivity and dynamic range," he said.

It is also introducing new features, such as Cinema Style, on its Legria camcorders.

"Cinema Style enables consumers to use filters to add various artistic effects to their videos," Okada explained. There is also a Story Creator feature that makes it easy for users to edit videos on the camcorder.

Canon hopes that the introduction of these new cameras and unique features will set its products further apart from those of its competitors, as well as help it boost its share of the camcorder market.

It recently launched a slew of products at its headquarters here. Journalists attending from several other countries were also given a tour of the production line.

Canon targets bigger share of HD camcorder market

Canon Inc is focusing its efforts this year on capturing a larger slice of the High-Definition (HD) camcorder market. It is shifting its focus from SD (standard-definition) camcorders.

It said that currently sales of the SD vs HD cameras is about 60/40 but expects the difference to even out this year as the demand for HD continues to grow. The demand is in line with the increasing popularity of HD TVs and monitors worldwide.

"Also, we are seeing a growing demand for HD recording devices, which include flip cameras and mirrorless-system cameras, as the prices for these products get more affordable," said Edakubo Hiroo, group executive for Canon's video products group.


The camera maker is also shoehorning professional-grade features into its mid-range consumer products.

Yoshito Okada, general manager for its video products marketing management division, said the Canon XA10 and Legria HF G10 will have a full megapixel HD CMOS Pro sensor.

"This is the same sensor that we use in our range of cameras aimed at professionals, and offers greater light sensitivity and dynamic range," he said.

It is also introducing new features, such as Cinema Style, on its Legria camcorders.

"Cinema Style enables consumers to use filters to add various artistic effects to their videos," Okada explained. There is also a Story Creator feature that makes it easy for users to edit videos on the camcorder.

Canon hopes that the introduction of these new cameras and unique features will set its products further apart from those of its competitors, as well as help it boost its share of the camcorder market.

It recently launched a slew of products at its headquarters here. Journalists attending from several other countries were also given a tour of the production line.

Quick review of new DSLR Canon EOS 600D and EOS 1100D

Canon has announced two new DSLR cameras, the EOS 600D and EOS 1100D. Canon said both cameras are designed for entry level photo enthusiasts looking to upgrade from a compact model to their first DSLR camera.

The EOS 600D has an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor while the EOS 1100D comes with a 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. Both cameras have a nine-point autofocus system to swiftly track and focus on moving subjects.

For capturing moving subjects, the EOS 600D can shoot at a continuous burst of up to 3.7 frames per second (fps) while the EOS 1100D snaps at 3fps. The 600D also comes with a built-in wireless flash transmitter that can be used to control multiple flash units.

The DSLR cameras are backed by Canon's Digic 4 image processor, enabling them to process photos faster and reduce noise at higher ISO levels, the company said.

Designed for beginners, the EOS 1100D has a redesigned control layout with all buttons arranged on the right side of the camera, allowing for one-handed usage.

Aiding photographers to get unique angles for their shots, the EOS 600D's 3in vari-angle LCD monitor can be folded out and swivelled, thus allowing pictures to be framed at more flexible angles.

Not to be left out, the EOS 1100D has a 2.7in LCD monitor with a wide viewing angle of 170° so users can still see the screen from both high or low angles.

Canon said both cameras' low light shooting performance are enhanced thanks to their higher ISO range with the EOS 1100D having a maximum ISO6400 sensitivity while the EOS 600D has an expanded ISO range of 12,800.


The two new entry-level DSLRs will come with a new "Feature Guide" that displays simple descriptions to all modes and settings in the camera, helping users understand general photography terminology.
The EOS 600D will have a new Scene Intelligent Auto mode that automatically analyses an image to determine the right exposure, focus and white balance settings.

The EOS 600D can also shoot full HD (1,920 x 1,080-pixel) movies and is able to capture videos at a high ISO speed of 6400.

Meanwhile the EOS 1100D is able to record HD movies at 1,280 x 720-pixel resolution. A new video specific feature found on both EOS cameras is the Video Snapshot function that shoots short video clips that are two, four or eight seconds in length.

The EOS 600D is able playback both photos and video with accompanying background music. It will come with five preselected tracks and users can import their own music via SD card.

Advanced creative filters are another new feature on the EOS 600D - it gives users the ability to apply effects like soft focus, toy camera, miniature and fish-eye to photos.

Aside from the usual black colour scheme, the EOS 1100D is also available in red, brown and metallic gray.

Both cameras are available now with the Canon EOS 600D priced at RM2,999 with an EF-S 18-55mm IS kit lens while the Canon EOS 1100D is priced at RM1,999 with a EF-S 18-55mm IS kit lens.

Quick review of new DSLR Canon EOS 600D and EOS 1100D

Canon has announced two new DSLR cameras, the EOS 600D and EOS 1100D. Canon said both cameras are designed for entry level photo enthusiasts looking to upgrade from a compact model to their first DSLR camera.

The EOS 600D has an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor while the EOS 1100D comes with a 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. Both cameras have a nine-point autofocus system to swiftly track and focus on moving subjects.

For capturing moving subjects, the EOS 600D can shoot at a continuous burst of up to 3.7 frames per second (fps) while the EOS 1100D snaps at 3fps. The 600D also comes with a built-in wireless flash transmitter that can be used to control multiple flash units.

The DSLR cameras are backed by Canon's Digic 4 image processor, enabling them to process photos faster and reduce noise at higher ISO levels, the company said.

Designed for beginners, the EOS 1100D has a redesigned control layout with all buttons arranged on the right side of the camera, allowing for one-handed usage.

Aiding photographers to get unique angles for their shots, the EOS 600D's 3in vari-angle LCD monitor can be folded out and swivelled, thus allowing pictures to be framed at more flexible angles.

Not to be left out, the EOS 1100D has a 2.7in LCD monitor with a wide viewing angle of 170° so users can still see the screen from both high or low angles.

Canon said both cameras' low light shooting performance are enhanced thanks to their higher ISO range with the EOS 1100D having a maximum ISO6400 sensitivity while the EOS 600D has an expanded ISO range of 12,800.


The two new entry-level DSLRs will come with a new "Feature Guide" that displays simple descriptions to all modes and settings in the camera, helping users understand general photography terminology.
The EOS 600D will have a new Scene Intelligent Auto mode that automatically analyses an image to determine the right exposure, focus and white balance settings.

The EOS 600D can also shoot full HD (1,920 x 1,080-pixel) movies and is able to capture videos at a high ISO speed of 6400.

Meanwhile the EOS 1100D is able to record HD movies at 1,280 x 720-pixel resolution. A new video specific feature found on both EOS cameras is the Video Snapshot function that shoots short video clips that are two, four or eight seconds in length.

The EOS 600D is able playback both photos and video with accompanying background music. It will come with five preselected tracks and users can import their own music via SD card.

Advanced creative filters are another new feature on the EOS 600D - it gives users the ability to apply effects like soft focus, toy camera, miniature and fish-eye to photos.

Aside from the usual black colour scheme, the EOS 1100D is also available in red, brown and metallic gray.

Both cameras are available now with the Canon EOS 600D priced at RM2,999 with an EF-S 18-55mm IS kit lens while the Canon EOS 1100D is priced at RM1,999 with a EF-S 18-55mm IS kit lens.

Quick review of new DSLR Canon EOS 600D and EOS 1100D

Canon has announced two new DSLR cameras, the EOS 600D and EOS 1100D. Canon said both cameras are designed for entry level photo enthusiasts looking to upgrade from a compact model to their first DSLR camera.

The EOS 600D has an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor while the EOS 1100D comes with a 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. Both cameras have a nine-point autofocus system to swiftly track and focus on moving subjects.

For capturing moving subjects, the EOS 600D can shoot at a continuous burst of up to 3.7 frames per second (fps) while the EOS 1100D snaps at 3fps. The 600D also comes with a built-in wireless flash transmitter that can be used to control multiple flash units.

The DSLR cameras are backed by Canon's Digic 4 image processor, enabling them to process photos faster and reduce noise at higher ISO levels, the company said.

Designed for beginners, the EOS 1100D has a redesigned control layout with all buttons arranged on the right side of the camera, allowing for one-handed usage.

Aiding photographers to get unique angles for their shots, the EOS 600D's 3in vari-angle LCD monitor can be folded out and swivelled, thus allowing pictures to be framed at more flexible angles.

Not to be left out, the EOS 1100D has a 2.7in LCD monitor with a wide viewing angle of 170° so users can still see the screen from both high or low angles.

Canon said both cameras' low light shooting performance are enhanced thanks to their higher ISO range with the EOS 1100D having a maximum ISO6400 sensitivity while the EOS 600D has an expanded ISO range of 12,800.


The two new entry-level DSLRs will come with a new "Feature Guide" that displays simple descriptions to all modes and settings in the camera, helping users understand general photography terminology.
The EOS 600D will have a new Scene Intelligent Auto mode that automatically analyses an image to determine the right exposure, focus and white balance settings.

The EOS 600D can also shoot full HD (1,920 x 1,080-pixel) movies and is able to capture videos at a high ISO speed of 6400.

Meanwhile the EOS 1100D is able to record HD movies at 1,280 x 720-pixel resolution. A new video specific feature found on both EOS cameras is the Video Snapshot function that shoots short video clips that are two, four or eight seconds in length.

The EOS 600D is able playback both photos and video with accompanying background music. It will come with five preselected tracks and users can import their own music via SD card.

Advanced creative filters are another new feature on the EOS 600D - it gives users the ability to apply effects like soft focus, toy camera, miniature and fish-eye to photos.

Aside from the usual black colour scheme, the EOS 1100D is also available in red, brown and metallic gray.

Both cameras are available now with the Canon EOS 600D priced at RM2,999 with an EF-S 18-55mm IS kit lens while the Canon EOS 1100D is priced at RM1,999 with a EF-S 18-55mm IS kit lens.

Full Review of Canon imageClass D520

The Canon imageClass D520 is the company's latest multifunction printer for homes and small offices.

It's quite a big printer that weighs a hefty 10.5kg. Although big and heavy, a single person should still be able to set it up easily.

Getting the printer up and running was straight forward - we just had to hook it up to a PC and install drivers which came with the printer.

The printer's control panel is fairly well designed and has a four-way directional pad that makes it easy to tweak the settings and choose print jobs.


The scanner bed can be opened to reveal the output tray. And hidden beneath the output tray is the cartridge compartment.

We like the single-cartridge system which combines the toner and drum into a single unit. This makes it easy to replace the cartridge in the future.

At the bottom of the printer is the manual paper feed tray which can hold up to 250 sheets of paper. You can also manually load the paper into the feed tray at the bottom.

It's cool that the D520 features automatic duplex printing. It's a really useful feature to have as you'll be able to save paper (and the environment) by printing on both sides of a paper. Also, the duplexing feature comes in handy when printing brochures and such materials.

Performance
We tested the speed of the D520 by printing a number of A4 documents and it was able to churn out pages at 25ppm (pages per minute) which is actually the rated speed by manufacturer.
The quality of the printouts were impressive - the text was crisp and sharp.

The printer is also capable of scanning colour documents and photos at a resolution of up to 9,600dpi (dots per inch).

Scanned documents are saved in PDF format in the computer. The printer can also be configured to attach the scanned document to an e-mail automatically.

The printer's scanning speed tended to vary depending on the type of document being scanned.
It only takes about three seconds to scan a monochrome text document. A colourful brochure, on the other hand, can take the D520 about 13 seconds to complete the scan.

The quality of the scanned documents looked accurate and sharp, and it's a great way to digitise a document and send it via e-mail.

Conclusion
There is a lot to like about the all-in-one Canon imageClass D520. The laser printer produces professional-looking printouts and the built-in scanner does a decent job.

As the printer prints out at 25ppm, you also don't have to wait long to get your documents. And its automatic duplex feature works great and it's a handy feature to have that saves paper.
And when it comes to changing the cartridge, the single-cartridge system makes the task simple and easy.

Overall, the all-in-one Canon imageClass D520 is a decent printer that performed well in all areas.

Pros: Feature-packed; convenient single-cartridge system; automatic duplex printing; good print and scan quality.
Cons: Nothing major.

(Canon)
All-in-one monochrome printer
PRINT RESOLUTION: 1,200 x 600dpi
PRINT SPEED: 25ppm
COPY SPEED: 25cpm
SCAN RESOLUTION: 9,600 x 9,600dpi
INTERFACE: USB 2.0
PAPER HANDLING: 250-sheet front cassette tray
PAPER SIZES: Up to A4
DIMENSIONS (W x H x D): 390 x 414 x 301mm
WEIGHT: 11.1kg

Full Review of Canon imageClass D520

The Canon imageClass D520 is the company's latest multifunction printer for homes and small offices.

It's quite a big printer that weighs a hefty 10.5kg. Although big and heavy, a single person should still be able to set it up easily.

Getting the printer up and running was straight forward - we just had to hook it up to a PC and install drivers which came with the printer.

The printer's control panel is fairly well designed and has a four-way directional pad that makes it easy to tweak the settings and choose print jobs.


The scanner bed can be opened to reveal the output tray. And hidden beneath the output tray is the cartridge compartment.

We like the single-cartridge system which combines the toner and drum into a single unit. This makes it easy to replace the cartridge in the future.

At the bottom of the printer is the manual paper feed tray which can hold up to 250 sheets of paper. You can also manually load the paper into the feed tray at the bottom.

It's cool that the D520 features automatic duplex printing. It's a really useful feature to have as you'll be able to save paper (and the environment) by printing on both sides of a paper. Also, the duplexing feature comes in handy when printing brochures and such materials.

Performance
We tested the speed of the D520 by printing a number of A4 documents and it was able to churn out pages at 25ppm (pages per minute) which is actually the rated speed by manufacturer.
The quality of the printouts were impressive - the text was crisp and sharp.

The printer is also capable of scanning colour documents and photos at a resolution of up to 9,600dpi (dots per inch).

Scanned documents are saved in PDF format in the computer. The printer can also be configured to attach the scanned document to an e-mail automatically.

The printer's scanning speed tended to vary depending on the type of document being scanned.
It only takes about three seconds to scan a monochrome text document. A colourful brochure, on the other hand, can take the D520 about 13 seconds to complete the scan.

The quality of the scanned documents looked accurate and sharp, and it's a great way to digitise a document and send it via e-mail.

Conclusion
There is a lot to like about the all-in-one Canon imageClass D520. The laser printer produces professional-looking printouts and the built-in scanner does a decent job.

As the printer prints out at 25ppm, you also don't have to wait long to get your documents. And its automatic duplex feature works great and it's a handy feature to have that saves paper.
And when it comes to changing the cartridge, the single-cartridge system makes the task simple and easy.

Overall, the all-in-one Canon imageClass D520 is a decent printer that performed well in all areas.

Pros: Feature-packed; convenient single-cartridge system; automatic duplex printing; good print and scan quality.
Cons: Nothing major.

(Canon)
All-in-one monochrome printer
PRINT RESOLUTION: 1,200 x 600dpi
PRINT SPEED: 25ppm
COPY SPEED: 25cpm
SCAN RESOLUTION: 9,600 x 9,600dpi
INTERFACE: USB 2.0
PAPER HANDLING: 250-sheet front cassette tray
PAPER SIZES: Up to A4
DIMENSIONS (W x H x D): 390 x 414 x 301mm
WEIGHT: 11.1kg

Full Review of Canon imageClass D520

The Canon imageClass D520 is the company's latest multifunction printer for homes and small offices.

It's quite a big printer that weighs a hefty 10.5kg. Although big and heavy, a single person should still be able to set it up easily.

Getting the printer up and running was straight forward - we just had to hook it up to a PC and install drivers which came with the printer.

The printer's control panel is fairly well designed and has a four-way directional pad that makes it easy to tweak the settings and choose print jobs.


The scanner bed can be opened to reveal the output tray. And hidden beneath the output tray is the cartridge compartment.

We like the single-cartridge system which combines the toner and drum into a single unit. This makes it easy to replace the cartridge in the future.

At the bottom of the printer is the manual paper feed tray which can hold up to 250 sheets of paper. You can also manually load the paper into the feed tray at the bottom.

It's cool that the D520 features automatic duplex printing. It's a really useful feature to have as you'll be able to save paper (and the environment) by printing on both sides of a paper. Also, the duplexing feature comes in handy when printing brochures and such materials.

Performance
We tested the speed of the D520 by printing a number of A4 documents and it was able to churn out pages at 25ppm (pages per minute) which is actually the rated speed by manufacturer.
The quality of the printouts were impressive - the text was crisp and sharp.

The printer is also capable of scanning colour documents and photos at a resolution of up to 9,600dpi (dots per inch).

Scanned documents are saved in PDF format in the computer. The printer can also be configured to attach the scanned document to an e-mail automatically.

The printer's scanning speed tended to vary depending on the type of document being scanned.
It only takes about three seconds to scan a monochrome text document. A colourful brochure, on the other hand, can take the D520 about 13 seconds to complete the scan.

The quality of the scanned documents looked accurate and sharp, and it's a great way to digitise a document and send it via e-mail.

Conclusion
There is a lot to like about the all-in-one Canon imageClass D520. The laser printer produces professional-looking printouts and the built-in scanner does a decent job.

As the printer prints out at 25ppm, you also don't have to wait long to get your documents. And its automatic duplex feature works great and it's a handy feature to have that saves paper.
And when it comes to changing the cartridge, the single-cartridge system makes the task simple and easy.

Overall, the all-in-one Canon imageClass D520 is a decent printer that performed well in all areas.

Pros: Feature-packed; convenient single-cartridge system; automatic duplex printing; good print and scan quality.
Cons: Nothing major.

(Canon)
All-in-one monochrome printer
PRINT RESOLUTION: 1,200 x 600dpi
PRINT SPEED: 25ppm
COPY SPEED: 25cpm
SCAN RESOLUTION: 9,600 x 9,600dpi
INTERFACE: USB 2.0
PAPER HANDLING: 250-sheet front cassette tray
PAPER SIZES: Up to A4
DIMENSIONS (W x H x D): 390 x 414 x 301mm
WEIGHT: 11.1kg

Quick Review of Canon PowerShot S95

Rounding off the new range is the PowerShot S95, which is slimmer than its predecessors but yet packs in tons of features.

The S95 has a 10-megapixel image sensor, a 3.8x zoom range equivalent to a 28-105mm zoom lens with a hybrid image stabilisation function.

PowerShot S95

Again, the PowerShot S95 also comes with the Canon HS System, which means the camera has ISO settings from 80 to 3,200.

The PowerShot S95 also has a Tracking Autofocus function which enables it to track and focus on moving subjects and a control ring on the front of the camera which allows for quick access to settings like aspect ratio, contrast and ISO.

The PowerShot S95 has a recommended retail price of USD 480 ++

Advanced image quality

• HS System brings together a 10.0-megapixel, high-sensitivity sensor and the DIGIC 4 image processor
• High-quality 3.8x zoom lens with a lens-shift image stabilizer
• Hybrid IS
• Improved i-Contrast function
• High Dynamic Range shooting mode
• Tracking AF
• The maximum ISO speed and the rate of change can be configured for the ISO Auto mode
• Shoot at multiple aspect ratios
• Advanced Smart Auto mode
• Smart Flash Exposure
• Low Light shooting mode with manual control over exposure compensation, white balance, and ISO speed
• Movie shooting with even more functionality
• Real-time RGB histogram
• Operate the camera with an HDMI device’s remote control

Quick Review of Canon PowerShot S95

Rounding off the new range is the PowerShot S95, which is slimmer than its predecessors but yet packs in tons of features.

The S95 has a 10-megapixel image sensor, a 3.8x zoom range equivalent to a 28-105mm zoom lens with a hybrid image stabilisation function.

PowerShot S95

Again, the PowerShot S95 also comes with the Canon HS System, which means the camera has ISO settings from 80 to 3,200.

The PowerShot S95 also has a Tracking Autofocus function which enables it to track and focus on moving subjects and a control ring on the front of the camera which allows for quick access to settings like aspect ratio, contrast and ISO.

The PowerShot S95 has a recommended retail price of USD 480 ++

Advanced image quality

• HS System brings together a 10.0-megapixel, high-sensitivity sensor and the DIGIC 4 image processor
• High-quality 3.8x zoom lens with a lens-shift image stabilizer
• Hybrid IS
• Improved i-Contrast function
• High Dynamic Range shooting mode
• Tracking AF
• The maximum ISO speed and the rate of change can be configured for the ISO Auto mode
• Shoot at multiple aspect ratios
• Advanced Smart Auto mode
• Smart Flash Exposure
• Low Light shooting mode with manual control over exposure compensation, white balance, and ISO speed
• Movie shooting with even more functionality
• Real-time RGB histogram
• Operate the camera with an HDMI device’s remote control

Quick Review of Canon PowerShot S95

Rounding off the new range is the PowerShot S95, which is slimmer than its predecessors but yet packs in tons of features.

The S95 has a 10-megapixel image sensor, a 3.8x zoom range equivalent to a 28-105mm zoom lens with a hybrid image stabilisation function.

PowerShot S95

Again, the PowerShot S95 also comes with the Canon HS System, which means the camera has ISO settings from 80 to 3,200.

The PowerShot S95 also has a Tracking Autofocus function which enables it to track and focus on moving subjects and a control ring on the front of the camera which allows for quick access to settings like aspect ratio, contrast and ISO.

The PowerShot S95 has a recommended retail price of USD 480 ++

Advanced image quality

• HS System brings together a 10.0-megapixel, high-sensitivity sensor and the DIGIC 4 image processor
• High-quality 3.8x zoom lens with a lens-shift image stabilizer
• Hybrid IS
• Improved i-Contrast function
• High Dynamic Range shooting mode
• Tracking AF
• The maximum ISO speed and the rate of change can be configured for the ISO Auto mode
• Shoot at multiple aspect ratios
• Advanced Smart Auto mode
• Smart Flash Exposure
• Low Light shooting mode with manual control over exposure compensation, white balance, and ISO speed
• Movie shooting with even more functionality
• Real-time RGB histogram
• Operate the camera with an HDMI device’s remote control

Quick Review of Canon PowerShot G12

PowerShot G12

Although technically a compact digicam, the G-series has always boasted DSLR-level features.

The latest in the series, the PowerShot G12, is no exception - apart from a range of shooting modes from full manual to aperture- and shutter-priority autoexposure, the G12 even has a dedicated ISO dial that allows you to quickly change ISO settings in 1/3 increments from ISO 80 to 3,200.

The G12 also features a new High Dynamic Range mode which allows the user to capture high contrast scenes (for example, scenes with strongly backlit subjects) and produces a balanced shot by automatically combining three photos taken in quick succession.

Of course, there's also 720p HD video recording with stereo sound.

Canon has opted to keep the megapixel count at 10-megapixels and the zoom range at the same 28–140mm equivalent.

The PowerShot G12 has a recommended retail price of USD 600++.

Quick Review of Canon PowerShot G12

PowerShot G12

Although technically a compact digicam, the G-series has always boasted DSLR-level features.

The latest in the series, the PowerShot G12, is no exception - apart from a range of shooting modes from full manual to aperture- and shutter-priority autoexposure, the G12 even has a dedicated ISO dial that allows you to quickly change ISO settings in 1/3 increments from ISO 80 to 3,200.

The G12 also features a new High Dynamic Range mode which allows the user to capture high contrast scenes (for example, scenes with strongly backlit subjects) and produces a balanced shot by automatically combining three photos taken in quick succession.

Of course, there's also 720p HD video recording with stereo sound.

Canon has opted to keep the megapixel count at 10-megapixels and the zoom range at the same 28–140mm equivalent.

The PowerShot G12 has a recommended retail price of USD 600++.

Quick Review of Canon PowerShot G12

PowerShot G12

Although technically a compact digicam, the G-series has always boasted DSLR-level features.

The latest in the series, the PowerShot G12, is no exception - apart from a range of shooting modes from full manual to aperture- and shutter-priority autoexposure, the G12 even has a dedicated ISO dial that allows you to quickly change ISO settings in 1/3 increments from ISO 80 to 3,200.

The G12 also features a new High Dynamic Range mode which allows the user to capture high contrast scenes (for example, scenes with strongly backlit subjects) and produces a balanced shot by automatically combining three photos taken in quick succession.

Of course, there's also 720p HD video recording with stereo sound.

Canon has opted to keep the megapixel count at 10-megapixels and the zoom range at the same 28–140mm equivalent.

The PowerShot G12 has a recommended retail price of USD 600++.

Full Review of Canon EOS 60D

For those looking to upgrade from an entry-level camera, the Canon EOS 60D has a lot to offer.

THE Canon EOS 60D is the camera maker's latest DSLR camera that sits in between the entry-level EOS 550D and high-end EOS 7D.

The EOS 60D, which will replace the 50D, ups the ante for medium-range DSLR camera. It should appeal to users who want more advanced features than what is offered by entry-level cameras.

This is because the EOS 60D is endowed with a host of updated features that include a large 18-megapixel sensor, articulated LCD screen and 1080p HD video recording.

Lots of changes

The EOS 60D has a plastic body which is normal for camera of this class. Also, even though it's made from plastic, the build quality is still solid.

The camera is also now lighter and smaller that its predecessor. Even though it's smaller, a big rubber grip provides ample traction for holding the camera firmly.

Physically, the 60D has undergone dramatic changes especially in terms of the button layout. The power switch has been moved up and it now sits right beneath the mode dial.

Also, many of the settings buttons have been moved around to various parts of the camera to make room for the large 3in articulated LCD screen.

LOCK IT TIGHT: To prevent accidental mode switching the mode dial now has a lock that requires you to press and hold it before you can twist to switch modes.

The mode dial also has a lock that requires you to press and hold it before you can twist it to switch modes.

This is to help prevent from accidentally switching modes but it also makes it difficult to switch between creative shooting modes and the dedicated video record mode on the other end of the dial.

For a camera that's big on HD video recording, this feature makes it frustrating and inconvenient to acces it. It would have been more convenient if the video mode was located closer to the creative shooting modes.

The EOS 60D's high resolution screen is incredibly sharp with very rich colours, and is great for reviewing and framing pictures in live view mode.

The screen's brightness is adjustable and can be bumped up to make it easier to view it outdoors.

Also, the articulated screen is versatile and flexible. You can, for example, flip it around for taking self-portrait shots or flip it out to get a better view of an overhead shot.

USEFUL: The 60D's swivel LCD screen makes it great for creative compositions.

When not in use, the screen can be flipped around to be stowed and protect it from being scratched.

Also, there's now a dedicated live view button that switches on Live view mode and doubles as the record button when in video record mode.

The joystick has also been removed in favour of a directional pad nested between the camera's control dial. The d-pad is definitely a big improvement over the joystick, and it's more comfortable to use and conveniently located for making quick AF point selections.

The settings buttons located above the secondary monochrome LCD screen have been reduced to performing a single function per button.

This allows quicker access to some functions but limits the number of features you can access.

Strangely though even with all the buttons, the EOS 60D is missing a dedicated button for white balance.

Although you can set a custom button for this purpose, it is strange to find that it lacks a button for such a frequently used setting.

Another big change is that the camera now accepts SD cards, so you're going to have to trade your CF cards if you're moving up from a 50D.

Performance

We used the EOS 60D extensively for a few weeks using the 18-55mm kit lens provided.

We snapped photos at various events and the camera performed well. The camera is quick to start up, powering up in less than a second and it's ready for action.

The camera's autofocus served us well as we often needed to capture images under low-light conditions during events and we got many good shots.

Like the EOS 50D before it, the 60D has Live View mode and it works well on the camera's 3in LCD.

There's a slight delay in focusing speed when using the Live View mode to take photos. There are three focus modes to choose from - Live, Live Face Detection and Quick modes.

Both Live and Live Face Detection mode uses contrast-detect autofocus to operate - it is slower to focus and needs sufficient contrast in a scene to achieve focus lock.

As the name suggests, Live Face Detection differentiates itself by detecting and focusing on faces in the frame.

Although slower, it is more accurate and offers uninterrupted Live View feed unlike the Quick mode.

INSERT HERE: The EOS 60D now accepts standard SD memory cards instead of CF cards.

The main drawback is the slow speed when focusing on moving subjects as you may miss the moment.

Quick mode offers a speedier autofocusing though it momentarily interrupts the live view feed to drop the mirror down to use phase-detect in order to focus.

This mode should be the preferred one to capture non-stationary subjects and for hectic events.

In terms of image quality, the camera produced fine, crisp images both in JPEG and RAW formats under good sunny conditions.

We managed to get some pretty good shots both with the kit lens and a Sigma 90mm macro lens.

The images shot in RAW format was noticeably sharper and better even when we cranked up the ISO level.

The EOS 60D's extended ISO 6,400 levels make it more effective at taking pictures under low-light conditions.

For the most part, the camera's solid ISO performance impressed us as images captured at ISO 1,600 were still usable and retained enough detail even for large prints.

Images only started to appear soft and slightly saturated as we dialled the ISO levels up to 6,400.

There's also the option to boost the ISO levels up to 12,800 although images appear far too grainy to be usable.

The EOS 60D can also apply Creative Filters - Canon's version of Scene modes - on any picture. However, the selection is quite limited and is better left to an image editing software.

Despite the many improvements made to the EOS 60D, it has a slower burst shooting speed of 5.3fps (frames per second) compared to its predecessor's 6.3fps.

Home videos

HD video recording is one of the main highlights of the EOS 60D. For HD recordings, the camera records 1080p videos at 25fps and 720p at 60fps.

The video quality was great overall. The quality was good even when recording indoors or in low-light conditions. The boosted ISO levels impacted the video in terms of noise but it still looked good during playback.

The 1080p resolution videos looked impressive and detailed on a large screen. The 720p videos, of course, looked less detailed but they make for it with a higher frame rate that - the videos looked silky smooth even when capturing action shots.

FEATURE PACKED: HD video recording is one of the main highlights of the EOS 60D.

The camera's audio recording function was also good at picking up voices even in areas with lots of ambient noise. We recorded statements from a person in a busy a convention centre and his voice was captured clearly.

Again, the articulated screen also helps here - allowing us to view and record high and low angle shots.

The only thing the camera lacks is a dedicated video recording button.

Conclusion

The Canon EOS 60D is great for anyone looking for a mid-range camera. It isn't as powerful as the high-end EOS 7D but the 60D shoots great pictures even at ISO levels as high as 1,600.

Autofocus in generally fast although it is a tad slower in Live View mode. The swivel LCD screen is a great addition and the reworked control scheme with the d-pad in the centre of the mode dial works great.

Full HD video recording is an added bonus and we loved how it was able to take vivid and sharp videos with decent audio performance.

All in all, the Canon EOS 60D is a great camera for anyone looking to move up from an entry-level DSLR.

Pros: Good picture quality; decent ISO performance; HD video recording; articulated LCD screen.

Cons: Lacks dedicated video recording button; slow autofocus speed in Live View mode; slow burst shooting mode.

EOS 60D
(Canon)
DSLR
SENSOR: 18-megapixels (5,184 x 3,456-pixels)
VIEWFINDER: Eye-level pentraprism, 3in LCD (1.04 million dots)
LENS: EF-S 18-55mm (35mm equivalent) f/3.5 (wide) - f/5.6 (telephoto)
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/8,000sec – 1/60sec
ISO RANGE: 100 to 6,400, ISO expansion to 12,800
SHOOTING MODES: Auto, Program, Aperture and Shutter Priority, Manual, Bulb exposure
VIDEO MODE FORMAT: MPEG4, H.264; 1080p at 30fps, 720p at 60fps
BATTERY: Lithium-ion
STORAGE: SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card
INTERFACE: USB 2.0, HDMI mini out, video output (PAL/NTSC), external microphone (3.5mm stereo mini jack)
OTHER FEATURES: Creative filters, Auto Correction of Lens Peripheral illumination, RAW image processing
DIMENSIONS (W x H x D): 144.5 x 105.8 x 78.6mm
WEIGHT: 675g (body only)

Full Review of Canon EOS 60D

For those looking to upgrade from an entry-level camera, the Canon EOS 60D has a lot to offer.

THE Canon EOS 60D is the camera maker's latest DSLR camera that sits in between the entry-level EOS 550D and high-end EOS 7D.

The EOS 60D, which will replace the 50D, ups the ante for medium-range DSLR camera. It should appeal to users who want more advanced features than what is offered by entry-level cameras.

This is because the EOS 60D is endowed with a host of updated features that include a large 18-megapixel sensor, articulated LCD screen and 1080p HD video recording.

Lots of changes

The EOS 60D has a plastic body which is normal for camera of this class. Also, even though it's made from plastic, the build quality is still solid.

The camera is also now lighter and smaller that its predecessor. Even though it's smaller, a big rubber grip provides ample traction for holding the camera firmly.

Physically, the 60D has undergone dramatic changes especially in terms of the button layout. The power switch has been moved up and it now sits right beneath the mode dial.

Also, many of the settings buttons have been moved around to various parts of the camera to make room for the large 3in articulated LCD screen.

LOCK IT TIGHT: To prevent accidental mode switching the mode dial now has a lock that requires you to press and hold it before you can twist to switch modes.

The mode dial also has a lock that requires you to press and hold it before you can twist it to switch modes.

This is to help prevent from accidentally switching modes but it also makes it difficult to switch between creative shooting modes and the dedicated video record mode on the other end of the dial.

For a camera that's big on HD video recording, this feature makes it frustrating and inconvenient to acces it. It would have been more convenient if the video mode was located closer to the creative shooting modes.

The EOS 60D's high resolution screen is incredibly sharp with very rich colours, and is great for reviewing and framing pictures in live view mode.

The screen's brightness is adjustable and can be bumped up to make it easier to view it outdoors.

Also, the articulated screen is versatile and flexible. You can, for example, flip it around for taking self-portrait shots or flip it out to get a better view of an overhead shot.

USEFUL: The 60D's swivel LCD screen makes it great for creative compositions.

When not in use, the screen can be flipped around to be stowed and protect it from being scratched.

Also, there's now a dedicated live view button that switches on Live view mode and doubles as the record button when in video record mode.

The joystick has also been removed in favour of a directional pad nested between the camera's control dial. The d-pad is definitely a big improvement over the joystick, and it's more comfortable to use and conveniently located for making quick AF point selections.

The settings buttons located above the secondary monochrome LCD screen have been reduced to performing a single function per button.

This allows quicker access to some functions but limits the number of features you can access.

Strangely though even with all the buttons, the EOS 60D is missing a dedicated button for white balance.

Although you can set a custom button for this purpose, it is strange to find that it lacks a button for such a frequently used setting.

Another big change is that the camera now accepts SD cards, so you're going to have to trade your CF cards if you're moving up from a 50D.

Performance

We used the EOS 60D extensively for a few weeks using the 18-55mm kit lens provided.

We snapped photos at various events and the camera performed well. The camera is quick to start up, powering up in less than a second and it's ready for action.

The camera's autofocus served us well as we often needed to capture images under low-light conditions during events and we got many good shots.

Like the EOS 50D before it, the 60D has Live View mode and it works well on the camera's 3in LCD.

There's a slight delay in focusing speed when using the Live View mode to take photos. There are three focus modes to choose from - Live, Live Face Detection and Quick modes.

Both Live and Live Face Detection mode uses contrast-detect autofocus to operate - it is slower to focus and needs sufficient contrast in a scene to achieve focus lock.

As the name suggests, Live Face Detection differentiates itself by detecting and focusing on faces in the frame.

Although slower, it is more accurate and offers uninterrupted Live View feed unlike the Quick mode.

INSERT HERE: The EOS 60D now accepts standard SD memory cards instead of CF cards.

The main drawback is the slow speed when focusing on moving subjects as you may miss the moment.

Quick mode offers a speedier autofocusing though it momentarily interrupts the live view feed to drop the mirror down to use phase-detect in order to focus.

This mode should be the preferred one to capture non-stationary subjects and for hectic events.

In terms of image quality, the camera produced fine, crisp images both in JPEG and RAW formats under good sunny conditions.

We managed to get some pretty good shots both with the kit lens and a Sigma 90mm macro lens.

The images shot in RAW format was noticeably sharper and better even when we cranked up the ISO level.

The EOS 60D's extended ISO 6,400 levels make it more effective at taking pictures under low-light conditions.

For the most part, the camera's solid ISO performance impressed us as images captured at ISO 1,600 were still usable and retained enough detail even for large prints.

Images only started to appear soft and slightly saturated as we dialled the ISO levels up to 6,400.

There's also the option to boost the ISO levels up to 12,800 although images appear far too grainy to be usable.

The EOS 60D can also apply Creative Filters - Canon's version of Scene modes - on any picture. However, the selection is quite limited and is better left to an image editing software.

Despite the many improvements made to the EOS 60D, it has a slower burst shooting speed of 5.3fps (frames per second) compared to its predecessor's 6.3fps.

Home videos

HD video recording is one of the main highlights of the EOS 60D. For HD recordings, the camera records 1080p videos at 25fps and 720p at 60fps.

The video quality was great overall. The quality was good even when recording indoors or in low-light conditions. The boosted ISO levels impacted the video in terms of noise but it still looked good during playback.

The 1080p resolution videos looked impressive and detailed on a large screen. The 720p videos, of course, looked less detailed but they make for it with a higher frame rate that - the videos looked silky smooth even when capturing action shots.

FEATURE PACKED: HD video recording is one of the main highlights of the EOS 60D.

The camera's audio recording function was also good at picking up voices even in areas with lots of ambient noise. We recorded statements from a person in a busy a convention centre and his voice was captured clearly.

Again, the articulated screen also helps here - allowing us to view and record high and low angle shots.

The only thing the camera lacks is a dedicated video recording button.

Conclusion

The Canon EOS 60D is great for anyone looking for a mid-range camera. It isn't as powerful as the high-end EOS 7D but the 60D shoots great pictures even at ISO levels as high as 1,600.

Autofocus in generally fast although it is a tad slower in Live View mode. The swivel LCD screen is a great addition and the reworked control scheme with the d-pad in the centre of the mode dial works great.

Full HD video recording is an added bonus and we loved how it was able to take vivid and sharp videos with decent audio performance.

All in all, the Canon EOS 60D is a great camera for anyone looking to move up from an entry-level DSLR.

Pros: Good picture quality; decent ISO performance; HD video recording; articulated LCD screen.

Cons: Lacks dedicated video recording button; slow autofocus speed in Live View mode; slow burst shooting mode.

EOS 60D
(Canon)
DSLR
SENSOR: 18-megapixels (5,184 x 3,456-pixels)
VIEWFINDER: Eye-level pentraprism, 3in LCD (1.04 million dots)
LENS: EF-S 18-55mm (35mm equivalent) f/3.5 (wide) - f/5.6 (telephoto)
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/8,000sec – 1/60sec
ISO RANGE: 100 to 6,400, ISO expansion to 12,800
SHOOTING MODES: Auto, Program, Aperture and Shutter Priority, Manual, Bulb exposure
VIDEO MODE FORMAT: MPEG4, H.264; 1080p at 30fps, 720p at 60fps
BATTERY: Lithium-ion
STORAGE: SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card
INTERFACE: USB 2.0, HDMI mini out, video output (PAL/NTSC), external microphone (3.5mm stereo mini jack)
OTHER FEATURES: Creative filters, Auto Correction of Lens Peripheral illumination, RAW image processing
DIMENSIONS (W x H x D): 144.5 x 105.8 x 78.6mm
WEIGHT: 675g (body only)