Canon PowerShot A3100IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Red)

Canon PowerShot A3100IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Red) Review

This is the third Canon "A" series that I have purchased. For those of you unfamiliar with the Canon line, they are targeted at users who value simplicity and ease of use. Clearly, they are also focused on a price point that is quite low. If you are looking for greater sophistication and higher quality (both photographic and build), there are many other choices. However, given its mission, the A3100 succeeds.

First, ease of use is well thought out. The user is presented with icons intended to be intuitive. However, there is a safety net for those perplexed by that approach: the software provides a running, written commentary on the purpose of the available options. The designers have attempted to make this device as palatable and non threatening as possible.

Second, even for users accustomed to more sophisticated cameras, the image quality is more than satisfactory. When purchasing a digital camera, one should not concentrate on "pixels". Digital imaging is dependent upon lens quality and the processor, in this case Canon's Digic III. I have felt that Canon's processors were among the best, for years. However, it is fair to say that the technology has improved to such an extent that many of the major brands are competitive with one another.

My primary concern and criticism is build quality; the battery and memory card door is flimsy (another review mentioned this), as is the USB port cover. Only time will tell if this is a problem.

Another review has mentioned dark images and less than satisfactory results with the zoom. While I have not utilized the digital zoom, yet, I find the optical zoom and image stabilization to operate quite well.

This is not an advanced SLR or a Leica; nor is it intended to be. However, within the scope of its designers' intent, it performs admirably, rewarding the user with photos above "snapshot" quality. For approximately 0.00, it is difficult to imagine a better performer.

Canon PowerShot A3100IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Red) Feature

• 12.1 megapixels, 4x optical zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer, and DIGIC III Image Processor
• Lithium-ion battery makes the camera lighter and offers an easy alternative to recharge
• New scene modes, including Super Vivid and Poster Effect; Smart Auto selects from 18 predefined shooting situations
• Large, bright 2.7-inch LCD
• Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

Canon PowerShot A3100IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Red) Overview

Now You've Got the Power.
There's nothing more satisfying than taking great pictures! And with the Canon PowerShot A3100 IS, it's so effortless. The 12.1 Megapixel resolution and 4x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer ensure radiant, detailed images. Plus, you've got an advanced DIGIC III Image Processor with evolved Face Detection Technology and the Face Detection Self-timer for extraordinary control and performance. New scene modes give your images a professional feel, while Smart AUTO lets you handle challenging conditions with ease. Plus this trim, fashionable camera is yours in three stunning colors.

Features

• Thinly designed, powerful A-Series camera with 12.1 Megapixels and 4x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer and DIGIC III Image Processor that makes capturing that great shot even easier!
• Lithium-ion battery makes the camera lighter and offers an easy alternative to recharge the battery.
• New Scene Modes such as Super Vivid for additional bursts of color, and Poster Effect for a unique artistic look, which gives the shooter more creative freedom to capture images their way!
• Smart AUTO will do the work for you by intelligently selecting the proper settings for the camera based on 18 predefined shooting situations.
• Low Light mode for improved shooting in dimly lit situations.
• Comes in 3 vivid colors: Red, Blue and Silver.
• Large, bright 2.7-inch LCD makes viewing images a breeze.

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*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Aug 11, 2010 04:31:37