Canon Powershot SX230 and SX220 HS with 14x Zoom

February 7th, 2011

Canon Inc. has introduced the Powershot SX230 HS and SX220 HS, updates to the popular Canon Powershot SX210 IS announced last year.

The new Powershot SX230 HS and SX220 HS feature the same long range image stabilized 14x zoom lens (28-392mm equivalent) as their predecessor, although both camera's now incorporate a new 12 megapixel (MP) back-illuminated CMOS sensor compared to the 14 MP CCD sensor found in the SX210 IS.

Showcasing the evolution of the Canon ELPH brand, the new PowerShot ELPH models have now instituted a “HS” suffix to represent the inclusion of the HS SYSTEM in each model.

Introduced last year, the Canon HS SYSTEM is a technology used to enhance image quality in low-light situations without the need for a flash. Making up the HS SYSTEM in these new models is Canon’s DIGIC 4 Image Processor combined with the new High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor, which helps to reduce noise at high ISO levels and expand the camera's dynamic range, ultimately capturing greater detail and colour in images in darker settings, like a wedding reception. With the use of the HS SYSTEM, consumers are able to capture clearer images with less noise and blur.

Both the Canon SX230 HS and the SX220 HS feature a large 3-inch high resolution 461,000 dot resolution LCD with wide viewing angle and Touch Panel technology. Both cameras also offer Full 1080p HD movie recording at 24fps with stereo sound and Dynamic Image Stabilizer for steady movie shooting.

In addition to manual exposure control options, both the Powershot SX230 HS and SX220 HS offer advanced Smart AUTO with 32 different shooting scenes. Smart AUTO is helpful since the camera will automatically select settings that match the scene without the need to switch modes, making it easier to take beautiful photos in a variety of situations.

Setting itself apart from the Canon Elph SX220 HS, the SX230 HS offers a GPS tagging feature. Through a dedicated receiver, the camera is able to collect signals from GPS satellites to obtain the latitude, longitude and altitude and records this information to the image’s EXIF data. The map utility software included with the camera permits viewing of photos on a map and shows the location of where the image was shot. The Canon SX230 HS also has an internal GPS logger, a first for a PowerShot model, helping to track the day’s route on a map, making it a useful application for long-term trips.

The PowerShot SX230 HS will be available in Canada at the end of March for an estimated selling price of $379.99 (available in black, red and blue). Check the latest US deals on the SX230 HS

The PowerShot SX220 HS will be available at the end of March for an estimated selling price of $349.99 Canadian (available in grey and purple).

Canon SX230 HS and SX220 HS Major Features

12.1 MP combined with DIGIC 4 image processor and Canon's HS System: The HS System represents a powerful combination of a high sensitivity sensor and high- performance DIGIC 4 image processing. Designed to provide excellent image quality and advanced low light performance, the HS System can produce significant advantages over non-HS System models, including

• Improved image quality in all situations – The HS System can capture images with up to 60% less noise than standard, non-HS System cameras at all ISO speeds. High ISO sensitivity photos taken with previous cameras exhibited significant amounts of noise and grainy detail, especially in low light. In contrast, the HS System can detect and capture more detail and significantly reduce noise, resulting in more beautiful and true to life shots.

• Low Light performance – The HS System truly excels in low light conditions and is able to preserve the atmosphere of the moment in dark scenes. Common low light problems such as capturing well exposed subjects against almost invisible, dark, night-time backgrounds or capturing blurred subjects due to slower shutter speeds can now easily be conquered. The ISO range is further extended using Low Light mode, reducing camera shake and subject blur in even darker conditions. Shooting at a reduced Megapixel resolution, the camera chooses an ISO speed between 100 and 6400, allowing users to capture a scene as they see it.

• Wider ISO range – The HS System can leverage the excellent performance of its high and low ISO settings in order to capture the ambience of any scene with exceptional image quality. When using Smart Auto mode users can take advantage of an ISO range up to ISO 1600, enabling users to take pictures using available light without having to manually extend the ISO speed.

• Dynamic Range – The increased sensitivity of the HS System allows it to capture a wider dynamic range with greater variation in brightness when compared to the results of non-HS System models.

14x Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer: The PowerShot SX230 HS and PowerShot SX220 HS both feature a 28mm wide-angle lens with 14x optical zoom in a very compact aluminium body. These allow the user to frame exactly the shot they want, whether shooting panoramic landscapes or zooming in closely on distant subjects. A quiet zoom motor allows the lens to zoom while recording movies without being heard on the soundtrack.

Canon’s highly-effective optical Image Stabilizer (IS) technology prevents image blur by dramatically reducing the effects of camera shake. In situations where image blur due to camera shake is more likely – such as in darker conditions or when shooting with the zoom extended – the optical Image Stabilizer can help images remain sharp through minute vibration gyros which detect camera movement caused by hand shake. Signals are then sent to the IS unit, which moves one of the lens elements accordingly to re-align the light rays and cancel out the effects of camera shake. As the PowerShot SX230 HS and PowerShot SX220 HS feature 14x optical zoom and are therefore more sensitive to camera movement, a 4-stop system means you can shoot 4 shutter steps slower than would otherwise be necessary to achieve a blur-free shot.

Dynamic optical Image Stabilizer (Dynamic IS): Dynamic optical Image Stabilizer is a technology which was initially developed for Canon video cameras and is now being incorporated into Canon’s PowerShot SX220 HS and PowerShot SX230 HS. It is designed to produce steadier video footage by compensating for low frequency vibrations, such as camera shake generated when filming while walking.

3-inch wide PureColor System LCD with high resolution and wide viewing angle: The PowerShot SX230 HS and SX220 HS digital camera's high resolution (461,000 dots) 3.0-inch wide PureColor System LCD gives you the big picture, whether you're shooting, reviewing or showing off your images. This high-resolution screen offers a crisp, clear picture to make shooting, playback and using the camera's menu functions especially convenient. Clear and bright, it features Night Display for easy viewing in low light.

Full HD Movie including Stereo Sound: Full High Definition video at 1080p resolution is recorded at 24 fps with Stereo sound ready for playback on HD displays.

iFrame Movies: The Apple iFrame video format is a computer-friendly video format designed to dramatically simplify the process of working with video recorded with your camera. With iFrame, the video in your camera is in the same format in which you’ll edit, so importing video is fast. You’ll be able to start editing and sharing your movies right away across multiple platforms and devices. Because it’s based on standard technologies such as H.264, AAC, MP4 and QuickTime, iFrame can be used with PC and MAC applications.

GPS (PowerShot SX230 HS only): The PowerShot SX230 HS is Canon’s first compact digital camera equipped with a GPS unit. This means it can record shooting-location information, adjust the internal camera clock to be updated according to time zone, and with the Logger function, users can track where they have been on a particular journey. A satellite positioning signal is received via the antenna located at the top of the camera. The positioning data is saved along with the photographed images to the memory card when shooting and it can then be viewed during detailed playback.

The GPS Logger function can be activated in the user interface so even when the camera is not in use, location information is recorded at intervals and saved as a GPS log file so users can record their travels. By using the supplied Map Utility which integrates with Google Maps2 users can review their entire journey and images taken along the way.

Smart Auto mode: uses Scene Detection Technology to determine the shooting scene by analysing subject brightness, contrast, distance and overall hue. The camera then selects the most appropriate scene type from 32 variables, applying the best settings for optimum output. In Smart Auto mode, a colour icon indicating the type of scene detected and the lighting conditions is shown on the LCD monitor.

Smart Auto also includes enhanced i-Contrast and Smart Flash Exposure, which ensure that brighter or darker areas are captured in sufficient detail in the final image by suppressing overexposed highlights and underexposed shadows.

Advanced Subject Detection: A further feature of Smart Auto mode, Advanced Subject Detection allows the camera to identify a moving non-human subject, such as a pet, and track it - ensuring it remains in focus and well-exposed until the shutter is released.

Face Detection Technology: makes it easier than ever to produce superb people shots. This advanced system quickly and accurately detects faces in a scene – then optimises camera settings so that everyone looks their best. With the ability to detect up to 35 faces in a frame, it’s great for group photos as well as portraits. These cameras include the following Canon Face Detection Technologies:

• Face Detection AF: Sets the focus for the faces in your people shots – not just the closest subject

• Face Detection AE: Optimises exposure for faces in all lighting conditions – useful for backlit scenes or indoor shooting

• Face Detection FE: Guards against washed-out faces when using the camera’s flash – perfect for close-up shots in restaurants, clubs or other dimly lit locations

• Face Detection WB: Optimises white balance for natural-looking skin tones which remain true to life regardless of skin colour and lighting conditions

• Red-Eye Correction: Automatically eliminates the unwanted effects of flash photography after the shot is taken. At the touch of a button in playback, natural-looking eyes can be instantly restored

Smart Shutter mode: uses Face Detection Technology to allow users to take both group shots and self-portraits more easily and in a more relaxed way. The shutter can be triggered remotely in three different ways:

• Smile Detection: Triggers the shutter when the camera detects a smiling face within the frame

• Wink Self-Timer: Triggers the shutter two seconds after the subject in the frame has winked, removing the need for a remote control

• FaceSelf-Timer: Allows perfect group shots or self portraits by automatically triggering the shutter two seconds after a new face has entered the frame

Smart Flash Exposure (FE): Canon’s Smart Flash Exposure intelligently controls the power and usage of the onboard flash to ensure natural results in a variety of conditions. By using the focusing distance as well as shooting scene information, an optimum balance between the ambient light of the scene and flash power is achieved.

When shooting in very bright conditions, shadows sometimes appear on a subject’s face – these can be detected by the camera and flash can be used to eliminate them. When shooting at close distances overexposure is avoided by effectively sensing how reflective the subject is as well as reducing the flash power to compensate for the close shooting distance.

Motion Detection Technology: automatically detects motion in the shooting scene. If movement is detected the camera will increase the ISO sensitivity and shutter speed to minimise blur and optimise image quality.

Tracking AF: To keep focus on subjects in motion, or to help achieve a creative composition, Tracking AF mode gives photographers the ability to select objects from the centre of the frame and track them if they move, or if the frame is recomposed.

Included in the box: PowerShot SX230HS or SX220HS Body (black shown below), Battery Pack NB-5L, Battery Charger CB-2LX, Wrist Strap WS-DC11, AV Cable AVC-DC400ST, USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU, Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM

Canon Powershot SX230 HS and SX220 HS Press Release

Canon today enhances its leading PowerShot SX-range with the launch of the impressive PowerShot SX230 HS and the PowerShot SX220 HS. This duo of outstanding new compact super-zoom models combine high-zoom performance, wide-angle flexibility and Full Manual control in two slim, sleek, pocket-friendly designs. The PowerShot SX230 HS also features new GPS functionality – a first for a Canon compact camera – allowing users to record the location where their images were taken and to record their journey with the GPS Logger.

Replacing the popular and highly-acclaimed PowerShot SX210 IS, both new models offer a leading set of features perfect for capturing your travels. Each includes Canon’s HS System for outstanding picture quality in all conditions, a wide-angle 14x optical zoom lens, as well as Full HD (1080p) movie recording with stereo sound. Users can choose between pink, blue and black finishes for the PowerShot SX230 HS, purple and grey for the PowerShot SX220 HS.

The HS System: Premium image quality even in low light
The inclusion of the HS System in the new PowerShot SX230 HS and PowerShot SX220 HS means that both models can capture outstanding-quality images in more situations than ever before. Representing a unique combination of a 12.1 MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor and Canon’s powerful DIGIC 4 processing technology, the HS System works to produce images with reduced noise and increased dynamic range that produces clear, detailed and natural results even in the most challenging of situations.

By reducing the occurrence of noise by up to 60% at all ISO speeds, the HS System allows users to capture beautiful, high quality images throughout the day and into the evening without using the camera flash or a tripod. The DIGIC 4 processor, unique to Canon provides accurate colour tones, as well as high responsiveness in everyday operation.

Record every step of your journey
The 14x genuine Canon optical zoom lens featured in both models offers a huge zoom range to capture a wide range of subjects. The 28mm wide-angle setting allows the capture of wide, sweeping landscapes or fit more of a scene into a frame, and with the full zoom at a 392mm equivalent focal length, users can reach distant subjects without having to move. Canon’s leading optical Image Stabilizer technology corrects camera shake, offering a 4-stop advantage to prevent image blur throughout the entire zoom range and when shooting in handheld in low light – capturing sharp, detailed images in all conditions.

Ideal for travellers or casual shooters, the PowerShot SX230 HS’ GPS unit will record where and when images are taken, allowing users to easily keep a record of the place and time their pictures are shot. Additionally, the GPS Logger facility can record the journey that users take, allowing them to later review their travels by using the supplied Map Utility software which integrates with Google Maps.

Both models shoot 1920x1080p Full HD movies at 24fps with stereo sound, capturing special moments with superb clarity. Users can also utilise the impressive 14x optical zoom to reach the most distant subjects during video capture, and Canon’s Dynamic optical Image Stabilizer counteracts camera shake commonly recorded when shooting movies while moving, helping to produce smoother, sharper video footage. A movie record button also makes switching from stills to video instantaneous so action is never missed.

A large, high quality 3-inch PureColor II G LCD provides the perfect platform for image framing and playback. A 460k-dot resolution offers pin-sharp levels of clarity during recording and playback, and a tempered glass layer provides additional strength and enhances visibility, with a wide viewing angle and excellent colour reproduction. A 16:9 aspect ratio is perfectly optimised for HD video capture, while Hints & Tips throughout the interface offer a short explanation of each feature, helping users learn more about the camera’s features as they need to.

Point and shoot – with amazing results
Ideal for users who just want to point and shoot, the PowerShot SX230 HS and PowerShot SX220 HS feature Canon’s Smart Auto mode. Designed to make it easy for anyone to get great-quality shots, Smart Auto uses Scene Detection Technology to evaluate each shooting situation against multiple factors and selects the optimum scene from 32 variables, capturing the perfect picture. All the photographer needs to do is focus on framing the shot – Smart Auto takes care of everything else.

Smart Auto also features the latest Advanced Subject Detection technology, allowing the camera to identify and lock onto non-human subjects such as pets or other moving objects within a scene. Once identified and the shutter has been half-pressed, Servo AF/AE ensures the subject remains in focus and well-exposed, right up until the shutter release is fully pressed and the image captured. i-Contrast and Smart Flash Exposure functions within Smart Auto also ensure subjects are captured in the best possible detail, reducing the occurrence of harsh shadows and over-exposed highlights.

Both new models feature a range of high-speed shooting features - ideal for capturing the fastest-moving action. High-speed Burst mode means that users will never miss a moment, rapidly shooting up to 8.1 shots / sec. at 3.0 MP resolution so every moment of the action is recorded. Super Slow Motion Movie mode offers a great way to slow down fast-moving action like sports, shooting at 240 fps at 320x240 resolution or 120 fps at 640x480 to provide a dramatic account of fast action sequences.

A new Movie Digest shooting mode provides a fun new way to add movie footage to a day of shooting still images. Movie Digest mode films and records the action up to four seconds before every still image taken, before joining all clips captured into a VGA-resolution movie. Users can also shoot video in the Apple iFrame Video format, which offers a simple way to work with video on a computer. Designed to work with Mac and PC video applications it can dramatically speed up the process of importing, editing and sharing movies across multiple platforms and devices.

Complete creative control
As well as a range of instant and easy shooting modes, both the PowerShot SX230 HS and the PowerShot SX220 HS offer complete manual control over camera settings, allowing users to get more creative with their pictures. Aperture, shutter speed, ISO and focus can all be controlled manually, enabling photographers to experiment with their images to achieve different effects, and develop their photographic skills.

Capture all your memories – even underwater
Explore a whole new world of underwater photography with the new optional Waterproof Case WP-DC42. Compatible with both models, the case provides water resistance to depths of 40 metres, as well as protecting the camera from dust, dirt and damage – making it perfect for snorkelling or scuba diving on holiday.

Canon Powershot SX230 and SX220 HS Specifications

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