Canon G1X hits the mark with SUPERB results.

The Canon Powershot G1X produces the BEST image quality found in a compact digital camera today. The speed of operation is almost identical to the Canon Powershot G11 & G12. It offers sharp, attractive images throughout the focal length of the lens and succeeds the image quality of all other Powershots (including the previous G-Series cameras). The functions are nearly identical to previous cameras in this range. It consistently takes attractive pictures but the main benefit of the G1X is that it can capture remarkable pictures in extremely low light. This includes starlit night skies and evening cityscapes. The camera can also use the filter mount (not included/optional accessory) to mount a Circular Polarizer, a Cross Filter, A Closeup Lens and numerous similar similar attachments to the camera. It will also accept EOS attachments and accessories such as external Speedlite Flashes and Macro flashes. It produces superb JPEG images straight from the camera. Using a Speedlite external flash results in a delay of about one second between focus-lock and flash detonation. Since it may require a half second to lock focus with the external flash, this means shots with an external flash may take 1.5 seconds to execute. Built-in flash is almost instantaneous.

The G1X is the ideal all-in-one digital compact camera with the best image quality in its class. If you want more (Speed or DOF), you'll need to move up to a DSLR. It's noticeably slower to operate than a DSLR so Wedding Photographers and professionals will use this as a backup camera, not as a primary camera. Focus is VERY accurate, reasonably fast (same as G11/G12) and the many built-in features such as Neutral Density Filter and full manual operation allow near DSLR-like results. It can also take hand-held Infra Red photographs in sunlight without the need for a tripod due to low noise at high ISO settings. I rate this cameras at 4.5 Stars as it does exactly what it's supposed to do but there's a limitation to Closups with the Macro (see below). This is not a flaw. It's very hard to take a poor picture with this camera, especially in low light where most other cameras struggle.

One of the amazing things this camera can do is produces more shots with shallow DOF than the other cameras from the same class of the compact camera family. Coupled with exceptional Dynamic Range (where subtle details in highlights and shadows can be captured), the G1X is quite literally the best of its kind. It is affectionately referred to as the "Canon Pro2" by some users due to the similarity in features, design and image quality output.

Problems:

Not Considered a Problem though it may frustrate new owners: Due to the lens design, the minimum Macro is limited to 7.9 inches and more from the subject. You can't get tight up close like you can with other G-Series cameras for Macro shots. This is very much in line with DSLRs using typical zoom lenses and further enhancements can be had by adding an external closeup filter (eg 250D & 500D). But those used to 1cm or 5cm Macro distances may feel this is too short compare to what they were used to previously. This is the result of the lens design and is neither a drawback nor a serious problem. It is necessary to activate the "Macro" setting when shooting at targets within arm's length or the camera may be harder to engage with the target - unless shooting in Full Auto.