Canon 10MP PowerShot SX10 IS offers 20x optical zoom

In addition to its flagship EOS 5D Mark II, Canon on Wednesday also expanded its ultra-zoom SX-Series with the PowerShot SX10 IS. The new compact digital camera features a wide-angle (28mm-560mm) 20x optical zoom lens, an Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS), Canon's new DIGIC 4 image processor and a new "smooth, curved grip." Canon notes that the new camera delivers 10-megapixel resolution, Genuine Canon Face Detection Technology, a 2.5-inch vari-angle (i.e, adjustable) LCD screen, a MovieSnap mode for capturing high-resolution still images while shooting video, and support for VGA movie mode (up to one hour or 4GB per clip).

The camera offers 24 shooting modes (ranging from fully automatic to manual via an SLR-style mode dial located on top of the camera) and a manual shooting mode that allows users to change a variety of on-screen settings, including Program AE, Shutter-speed priority AE, Aperture priority AE, Manual exposure and Custom mode.

The new DIGIC 4 image processor enables a new "Servo AF" mode -- what the company says is a form of continuous focus tracking for moving subjects, while a new new Voice Coil Motor (VCM), the company also said the camera also delivers faster focusing speed while reducing focusing noise.

"By pressing the shutter button half-way, the camera can track subject movement up to the instant of exposure, resulting in sharper photographs," the company said. "Additionally, the processor's high ISO speed noise reduction processing has improved substantially to enable consumers to shoot high-quality images, even in extremely dark situations without the use of a flash."

Touting the DIGIC 4 processor, Canon cited other improvements, including the new Intelligent Contrast Correction function that automatically works (for better image quality in high-contrast shooting situations) and Genuine Canon Face Detection technology that can now recognize human faces at most angles. Canon also noted that its Face Detection self-timer mode automatically takes a photo two seconds after a new face enters the scene.

The PowerShot SX310 will be available in late October for $400 and will include four AA Alkaline batteries, a USB interface cable, an AV cable, a neck strap, lens cap, lens hood, and a one-year warranty.

Filed under: digital imaging
Other story tags: Canon, digital camera, PowerShot