Canon unveils the PowerShot S100

Packed with upgrades, the PowerShot S100 marks a true step forward for the PowerShot S-series. Its 24mm ultra-wide angle, 5.0x optical zoom genuine Canon lens provides greater power and flexibility, and combines with Canon’s Intelligent Image Stabilizer (IS) system to deliver crisp, clear images in stills and movies. GPS functionality records the time and location of every shot, Full HD movie recording captures stunning video, and the powerful DIGIC 5 processor offers fast shooting speeds and even better image quality in all conditions. All of these new features also come in a super-slim body measuring just 26.7mm front-to-back, available in matte black and titanium silver variants.

The PowerShot S100 features the most powerful implementation of the HS System yet. Building on the PowerShot S-series’ reputation for providing high-quality, low noise images in low light, the enhanced HS System optimally combines DIGIC 5 processing with a high-sensitivity 12.1 Megapixel 1/1.7-type CMOS developed using Canon EOS sensor know-how – providing an even more powerful basis for low light photography. Supporting a maximum ISO of 6400 at full resolution, the camera fully-utilises the high performance of the CMOS sensor and the power of DIGIC 5 to reduce image noise – offering the reassurance of excellent image quality in all conditions.

Designed to achieve new and advanced levels of image quality, DIGIC 5 analyses four times more image information to create each pixel, recording more detail and colour from a scene than ever before. Processing speed is also six times faster compared to the previous processor, efficiently managing the increase in scene information and simultaneously reducing the appearance of image noise by up to 75%1.

The PowerShot S100 features a new, high performance lens developed and manufactured using the same methods and expertise as Canon’s leading EF lenses. A benchmark in Canon optical technology, the lens supports 24mm ultra-wide angle coverage for shooting horizons and landscapes, and an extended 5.0x optical zoom for zooming into distant scenes or subjects – all while offering a bright f/2.0 maximum aperture, and a light and compact design.

Intelligent IS utilises Canon’s highly-effective 4-stop optical Image Stabilizer to counter camera shake in stills and Full HD movies. Providing seven modes of stabilisation2, Intelligent IS automatically identifies the scene and adapts the optical Image Stabilizer settings for optimal compensation. Panning IS is ideal for following racetrack action, ensuring the IS system only corrects the axis vertical to the direction of movement, while Macro IS features Hybrid IS technology for shooting clear close-ups. Powered IS uses Canon camcorder technology to film distant subjects when using the zoom, while Tripod mode switches off IS when the camera is on a stable surface or attached to a tripod.

The PowerShot S100 offers full manual control over shooting settings and modes. Designed to fit seamlessly into a photographer’s existing workflow, it supports RAW format shooting and offers compatibility with Canon’s Digital Photo Professional (DPP) software as standard, providing a perfect second camera for DSLR users.

Ideal for users who want to record the location of every shot, the PowerShot S100’s integrated GPS unit records where and when images are taken, so users can keep an accurate record of the place and time their pictures are taken. Additionally, the GPS Logger facility records a user’s journey, allowing them to review their travels by using the supplied Map Utility software which integrates with Google Maps3.

Stunning Full HD (1080p) video is also captured at 24 frames per second with stereo sound. The 5.0x optical zoom can be used during video capture, while Dynamic IS and Powered IS mode within Intelligent IS counteract camera shake when recording whilst moving, or when using the zoom. An HDMI-CEC port makes it easy to share videos, allowing users to play images back on compatible HDTVs using the TV remote.

A large, premium-quality 7.5 cm (3.0") PureColor II G LCD display is perfect for framing and playback, with a fine 461k dot resolution that offers high contrast and excellent colour reproduction. A tempered glass outer layer provides a wide viewing angle and resistance to scratches, and new grips on both the front and back of the camera body offer improved handling, making this the ideal pocket camera for enthusiasts.

The PowerShot S100 is instantly compatible with a range of Canon accessories. The new HF-DC2 is an external flash unit that can be used to supplement the on-board flash, allowing users to capture a broader range of subjects. Users can also explore the world of underwater photography with the new optional Waterproof Case WP-DC43, which provides water resistance to depths of 40 metres and protects the camera from dust, dirt and damage – making it perfect for snorkelling or diving on holiday.