Canon SD780 IS Digital Camera Review
The Canon SD780 IS is not going to redefine the parameters of digital photography, or even point and shoot photography. But that’s not what it is supposed to do. At first blush the $300 price tag may seem a bit high for a camera with just a 3x zoom, 2.5 inch LCD and very few setting options. Don’t make that mistake. This may not be a camera to set the world on fire, but it is a camera that in the final analysis is greater in sum that the specs would suggest. It’s perfect for easy to use, memory making pictures that make up 90% of casual photography.
When you first see the SD780 IS, you are struck by its size – that of a credit card. And its only 0.7 inches thick. Okay there are other small pocket sized cameras around, but one with an image stabilizer, face detection and other processing technologies, built in flash and 720p video? Yes, Canon have raised the bar in regard to shirt pocket cameras. Oh yes, the sensor is 12.1 megapixels!
The camera comes with Canon’s new Smart Auto mode specially developed for point and shoot cameras. It automatically detects 8 different scene types and photographic conditions and changes the setting for the optimum picture quality. What could be easier?
Blink detection is another new Canon innovation. It prevents portrait mode shutter action when the subject’s eyes are closed. Since this is a memory making close up camera for taking pictures of people who are important to you, this function is a real boon.
The SD780 IS offers HD movies recording as 30 fps with a maximum resolution of 1280 x 720. The camera is also ready for HDMI output for direct connection to an HDTV.
The camera offers some useful creative options like panorama photo stitching and color accenting.
Then there is the Program Auto function that allows the user some control over the exposure settings but not to the extent of having a full manual setting. This type of camera is not meant for that kind of use.
The face detection can track movement within the frame. The self detection option is really useful. It detects when a face is added to the frame and takes a picture. Ideal when the photographer wants to set up the picture and then join a group to include himself in the photo.
The menu function is the standard Canon arrangement. For anyone familiar with Canon cameras, that means it is simple, direct and easy to use. And for those new to Canon, it’s easy to pick up in a few minutes.
Should you buy this camera? If you want a small great looking camera that you can fit in any pocket and have ready for taking a picture whenever something catches your fancy, the answer is yes. If you’re looking of good photo quality, the answer is again yes. If you expect more than this for $300, please look elsewhere.
Rating:
Value for money – 4/5
Ease of use – 3/5
Picture quality – 3/5
Overall – 3/5