Canon announced today the release three new PowerShot point-and-shoot cameras, the SX150 IS, ELPH 510 HS and ELPH 310 HS.
All three new cameras come loaded with improved optical zoom capabilities. Both the PowerShot SX150 IS and the ELPH 510 HS — the “thinnest camera today,” according to Canon — sport a 28mm lens, which is able of capturing wide-angle images, and has 12x optical zoom abilities. The less-expensive ELPH 310 HS also has a 28mm wide-angle lens, which is capable of 8x optical zoom.
To help created blur-free images, the three cameras also have an improved image-stabilization function, which automatically deciphers which type of image-stabilization to use depending on the type of shot, and then chooses from six modes, normal, macro, panning dynamic, powered and tripod.
For less-advanced photographers (i.e. almost anyone who buys a point-and-shoot), Canon has included the “Smart AUTO” feature, which “analyzes faces, brightness, colors, distance and movement” in order to select the appropriate settings (like white balance and shutter speed) and snap a quality photograph.
The PowerShot ELPH 510 HS and ELPH 310 HS both feature Canon’s “HS System,” which includes the high-sensitivity 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and the DIGIC 4 processor to help users snap better quality photos in low-light situations. And a “High-Speed Burst” mode allows the ELPH models to fire off multiple pictures every second for fast, action-packed shots. The ELPH 510 HS can shoot 7.8-frames-per-second; ELPH 310 HS shoots 8.7-frames-per-second.
Of course, all three cameras are able to shoot high-definition video. The ELPH models can both capture up to 1080p full HD footage, while the SX150 IS can record 720p HD video. Both ELPH cameras also include “Movie Digest” mode, which automatically shoots four seconds of video prior to capturing a still image. According to Canon, the camera “then automatically combine a full day’s worth of videos into one clip.”
The SX150 IS features a 14.1-megapixel CCD sensor, and includes a 3-inch LCD viewing display. This model comes in either black or red, and will be available at the beginning of September for an MSRP of $249.99.
The ELPH 510 HS comes in black, red or sliver, and includes a slightly larger 3.2-inch display, and will sell for $349.99. The ELPH 310 HS has a wider array of color options — purple, blue, pink, green and silver — has a 3-inch LCD display and is priced at $259.99. Both the ELPH 510 and 310 will be available in stores at the beginning of October.
