New Canon IXUS 300 HS with Low-Light Sensitivity

Canon IXUS HS 300

When digital single lens reflex (DSLR) product seems to be stagnate, digital pocket camera on the other hand, become very dynamic. Not only the vendors diligently releasing new products, they also constantly pushing the technology and features to the top.

Most recently, Canon make improvements on IXUS, their flagship pocket camera. IXUS 300 HS become the first camera to adopt the high sensitivity camera system. What makes it possible is the 10 megapixel CMOS sensor, and the latest DIGIC 4 processor. This processor is also used in DSLR models like the EOS 50D, 550D, and even 7D.

What is the impact of this technology? IXUS 300 HS claimed to be able to produce sharp images in low lighting conditions, without the help of flash. As is known, one problem on digital camera is the insensitive sensor that can not tolerate low lightning.

Not only that, this high sensitivity is also useful to get natural color and atmosphere. The lens diaphragm also enlarged to f/2.0. Meanwhile, other IXUS products only have a maximum f/2.8 aperture diaphragm. This results in more incoming light. The different can be felt in a low light environment or sharpness in potrait shooting. For example, to produce sharper images with a shallow space and smooth background (natural background blur).

The result, the image has more dramatic impression. Enhanced camera speed also reduced the risk of blurry or shaded image.

Canon IXUS 300 HS is also the first IXUS digital camera equipped with high-speed shooting feature. With High-Speed Burst mode, this camera can capture up to 4.8 fps so users can capture every detail from an object that moving quickly, like swinging racket or golf stick, swimming movements, and others.

In terms of video features on this camera, Canon IXUS 300 HS is equipped with high-speed video recording quality up to 240fps and can be played in slow motion (Super Slow Motion) at 30 fps. Also, for photographers who want full control on the camera, the Canon IXUS 300 HS also provides a choice of manual settings such as AV (aperture-priority) and TV (shutterpriority).

Other features that enhance functionality and fun of this camera, including image effects and Miniature Fish-eye Effect. Another smart feature is the Auto Smart Advanced technology that can detect the shooting condition and automatically determine camera settings for best results.

In addition, the latest Smart Shutter technology from Canon (Smile, Wink, and Face Detection), has also installed in this camera so the camera can automatically take picture by detecting face, smile, or even blink of the eye. The market price of the Canon IXUS 300 is US$370.