The PowerShot S95 is a 10-megapixel camera with 3.8x optical zoom and has a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 28mm-105mm. It has a 3-inch LCD (461,000 pixels).
Because of its small size, we consider this model a subcompact.
The PowerShot S95 stores photos and video on SD/SDHC memory cards but has no on-board storage. It captures images as JPG or RAW files at a top resolution of 3648 x 2736 and HD-resolution video as MOV files at a top resolution of 1280 x 720.
Like most digital cameras, this model comes with a proprietary rechargeable battery. It also has manual controls. It also has manual focus.
The image stabilization system for this camera is optical.
The PowerShot S95 measures 3.9 inches wide by 2.4 inches high by 1.2 inches deep, and weighs 7 ounces (with battery, memory card, and strap).
About This Brand
Canon is the market leader in point-and-shoots, with an extensive line of models, which are known as PowerShots. Its budget line, the A series, is made up of compacts and subcompacts. Canon's subcompacts are known as SD ELPHs. Its SX-series are mostly super zooms and come in various sizes and include smaller or larger feature sets. Canon has the D-series compact, which is waterproof and shockproof. Its high-end series, the S and G lines, include special modes and manual features, such as the ability to shoot RAW files and to focus manually. The EOS Rebel series helped to define budget SLRs. Other SLRs include a host of pro and more-advanced consumer models, including models that have very large, full-frame sensors. Canon also offers a wider selection of lenses than most brands.
Optical zoom Optical zoom is the maximum magnifcation of the lens.
Optical zoom
3.8
Manual controls Some cameras allow the user to set the aperture (f-stop), shutter speed, or (usually) both. This feature is used to override the automatic exposure settings when more control is needed. During a sporting event for example, you may want to use a high shutter speed to freeze the action. Or, you may want to use a low shutter speed to blur moving objects (like a waterfall) while keeping stationary objects sharp. Using shallow depths of field can be used to blur the background of photos while keeping the foreground in focus. Typically up/down arrow keys are used to change settings displayed on the LCD or in the viewfinder. These controls are not as easy to use as on conventional film cameras.
Manual controls
Yes
LCD size (in.) Digital cameras have a small liquid-crystal display (LCD) screen on the back so you can see the images and decide which to keep. You can also use the LCD to help frame photos, but that's a sure way to run down the battery in a hurry. Most LCD screens are too dim for viewing clearly in sunlight. Many cameras also use the screen for displaying menus and camera settings. It is desirable to have both an LCD display and a viewfinder with an eyepiece.
LCD size (in.)
3
Touch screen Touch screen indicates touch capability on the LCD.
Touch screen
No
Viewfinder Found on virtually all models, this optical device allows you to look through an eyepiece to frame the subject before taking a picture. Not to be confused with the LCD image display found on the back of the camera, which is mainly to view photos you've already taken.
I can wring a little better image quality out of it in the AV mode, Image Stabilization turned OFF (for when I use a tripod or a piece of furniture). Don't use super-high ISO's unless the light situation calls for it. <br /><br />In Full Auto, it's great for grab shots, but if you steady it with a tripod, Image Stabilization will mess up your sharpness. <br /><br />You can program the ring around the lens to your purpose, as you can the S button. Prefocus for video and you will be surprised at the quality in HD.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By
Disatisfied Canon Customer
from
San Francisco
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
1.0
S95 Lense Error Message
2/5/2012
Pros
Good Image Quality
Large Clear LCD
Small / Compact
Cons
Camera stopped working
Best Uses
Comment:
Own the Canon S95 for just over 12 months. Turned the camera on today and received Lense Error message. Did some rearch on the internet and discovered this is a common problem with Canon. Will need to see how much it cost to repair.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By
jim the runner
from
thousand oaks CA
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
1.0
Check out E18 issue before buying this
2/5/2012
Pros
Easy To Use
Fast/accurate auto-focus
Good Image Quality
Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
Comment:
This is the third Canon point and shoot we have owned and certainly the most expensive. It is broken. Canon point and shoots will eventually develop the E18 lens extension retraction failure and it will cost you a bundle to fix (essentially making the camera disposable) if it is not still under the 1 year warranty. [$] is a tremendous price to pay for a product that has known issues.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Other User Reviews
4.0
(based on 2 reviews)
By
rayfriedman
User has 2 Weeks of experience with this product
4.0
Good, execpt for small JPEG file
02/18/2011
Strength
Small. Adjustable. Good images.
Weakness
JPEG files produced are too small. HAVE to go through RAW to get detailed files.
Nice feel. Small. Good images. The main problems are 1) the JPEG files are small. There is no option to save as a detailed or fine JPEG. To get a high quality pic, you have to go through RAW. 2) to do any adjustments to the exposure, you have to go to P. I expected that there would be a way to override automatic exposure decisions when you are in automatic, but for the S95 auto is really 100% auto.
Small, light and easy to use; with fast lens, very sensitive in low light, flexible with many programmable options, RAW, very good picture quality
Weakness
Expensive
I have it for two weeks. So far I am very happy with it. Its picture quality is excellent for point and shoot camera. It is currently the best point and shoot camera for low light pictures with ISO 12,800. Its picture quality at ISO 12,800 is poor, at 6,400 is fair, and at 3200 is good which is unprecedented for such small camera. It has an HDR option extending the picture dynamic range to show details in dark and bright areas.
17 people have reviewed this model.
Optical zoom
