Canon PowerShot S400 (Digital IXUS 400) review

[Dan198196]

I purchased the S400 (after 3 months of research) because I wanted the absolute best quality available in a compact camera. This camera is quite impressive. Exposure is accurate. Tonal range really shines on this camera, images always have incredible detail from shadow to highlight and highlights don't tend to blow out, even in afternoon sun. Color is fantastic, saturated yet accurate. Skin tones are another reason I choose Canon, they just seem to get them right. Sharpening is mild, Canon doesn't push contrast and sharpening on their cameras instead going for an 'SLR' or 'Film' look if you will. The lens on this camera is probably one of the best ever to grace a ultra-compact model. Barrell Distortion is quite low and CA isn't visible in any of the pictures I have taken thus far. The design and finish is first class. The camera has a nice balanced weight and I feel comfortable taking pictures even though I have big hands. The menu system is simple, yet effective. The lcd is tack sharp, fluid, bright and visible under all but the brightest high noon sun. Though the camera isn't feature rich, I find it fits my needs 95% of the time. Exposure Comp, ISO, and WB allow me to make the most needed adjustments. The effects menu offers several other creative options to provide just enough flexibility to satisfy all but the most extreme photographer. Battery life is good, I recommend an extra one (get the powershot accesory pack, it contain the excellant form fitting leather case and spare battery). Overall I am quite impressed with this camera, it's a take anywhere pocket machine with the output comparable to the top 4 and 5 megapixel cameras on the market.

Problems:

Just Nit Picks

No Aperature / Shutter display on record mode (would be useful for setting exposure comp)

Color Oversaturated (Very Warm) when using flash (I found setting the Neutral Effect fixes this issue)