This Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 digital camera review will take a look at the features of this next generation handheld point and shoot device. The Canon ELPH 300 replaces the PowerShot SD 1400 in the Canon lineup of offerings. It features several updates that were not present in the previous model.
Canon ELPH 300 : Features
The ELPH 300 features a 5x zoom lens and gyroscopic image stabilization that makes it possible to shoot steady images in low light conditions while holding the camera in hand. Such images used to require a tripod to maintain a steady image. The camera also allows one to record 1080p HD movies at a speed of 24 frames per second. It also has a 2.7 inch LCD screen that allows users to view the image being shot and a very user friendly menu.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 : Fast Response Time
It has a 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor and Canon’s patented DIGIC 4 processor. This means it delivers fast response time and excellent reproduction of natural colors, even in low light conditions. Built in i-Contrast helps to keep highlights from blowing out while it retains details in shadowed areas.
Canon ELPH 300 : Smart Auto Mode
Two still photography shooting modes offer users some choice in how the camera functions. The Smart Auto mode allows the camera to analyze subjects, distances, colors, and brightness of a scene then select from 32 preprogrammed variables to optimize the camera settings to get the best image results. This mode makes it possible for the user to focus his/her attention on taking the pictures while the camera handles the technical problems automatically.
Face detection is able to locate and recognize up to 35 different faces in any given scene and automatically adjust the focus and exposure settings so that all subjects look their best. This includes automatic red-eye correction and face timer that causes the camera to pause until it recognizes a new face in the scene, making it possible to set the device and take high quality self portraits and family photos.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 : Manual Mode
The ELPH 300 has some override features that users can set manually. These include white balance presets, manual ISO settings up to 3200, exposure compensation settings, and several effects modes. However, it does not allow for manual exposure controls such as shutter priority, aperture priority, and manual. This takes part of the technical control out of the hands of users.
Settings that can be controlled in the Flexible Auto mode include light metering, image colors, white balance, and ISO sensitivity. Movies can be shot in different resolutions from 320 x 240 up to 1920 x 1080. The amount of time that can be recorded varies depending on the resolution. 1080p movies can be recorded 10 minutes at a time while up to an hour can be stored at lower resolutions.
Canon ELPH 300 : Summarize
If one is looking for a point and shoot digital camera that is easy to use, yet has many advanced features, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 is an excellent choice. This Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 digital camera review finds many more positives than negatives with the device. Only an advanced photographer or professional would find the inability to control all the technical settings on the camera to be problematic.