Canon introduced 10 new PowerShot cameras that offer an array of photographic options for the entry-level consumer to the photo enthusiast in February 17,2009. Now, I’d like to focus on one of them–Canon PowerShot D10 Digital Camera which realizes all-around waterproof, freeze proof and shockproof.
Basic features:
The Canon PowerShot D10 is waterproof up to 10 meters / 33-feet deep, freeze proof from -10°C / 14 degrees Fahrenheit, shockproof up to 1.22 meters / 4 feet, and is fully protected from dust. More regular features include a 12 megapixel sensor, 3x zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilization, 2.5 inch LCD screen, and new Smart AUTO, Blink Detection and FaceSelf-Timer modes. Although the $329.99 is not a low price, Canon PowerShot D10 deserves.
Design and Performance
The LCD of Canon PowerShot D10 was truly a gem. Even in broad daylight, we do not need to worry about the images on-screen. The button layout was also well designed, and Canon Digital Elph users will be particularly at home. The only major differences were the zoom mechanism — which is handled by two rubber buttons to the right of the LCD — and the movie mode, which is triggered by a button atop the LCD. Generally speaking, we had no issues navigating the UI, switching from movie mode to still mode (or vice versa) or zooming.
Start up was snappy (well under a second), and all of the buttons were well placed and easy to operate, even while submerged. Unfortunately, the actual shutter and autofocus performance didn’t follow suit. In most cases, the camera focused quickly enough for us to capture whatever action was in front of us, but there were a few occasions where we missed out due to sluggish shutter response. It’s hardly worse than the average non-waterproof point-and-shoot, but you best be on top of your game if you’re hoping to snap that perfect shot before a wave eats you alive.
Besides, The PowerShot D10 has a comprehensive Face Detection system that makes it easier to take great portraits. It detects up to 35 faces in a shot and adjusts the focus, exposure, flash settings and white balance automatically. The new Face Self Timer function is very useful for including yourself in group- or self-portraits. When you press the shutter release, walk into the scene, and two seconds after the camera detects that a new face appeared in the frame, the camera will automatically take the picture. Finally, Blink Detection can detect if a person in the picture has blinked and will automatically prompt you to retake the photo.
Battery life
Speaking of battery life, we were able to squeeze out around 45 minutes of VGA video along with a couple hundred snapshots before the battery warning indicator popped up. And, mind you, that’s 40 minutes of having the rear LCD flipped on. Outside of that, we never once took enough shots to drain it completely in a day. We didn’t go about any formal battery life testing, but overall we were mighty impressed by just how long the rechargeable cell held out. Unless you plan on firing off a thousands shots with flash, battery life shouldn’t be a concern.
Summary
In many ways using the Canon PowerShot D10 is much like using any other Canon point-and-shoot compact. Ignore the rather obvious external design differences, and you’ll find that the D10 offers the usual blend of intuitive handling, sensible design and largely dependable image quality. It shares a lot in common with its PowerShot and IXUS / Digital Elph relatives, making it easy to pick-up and use if you’ve ever owned a recent Canon compact. A few corners have been cut to accommodate the D10′s almost bomb-proof protective features – the 3x, 35-135mm zoom lens and 2.5 inch LCD screen are rather hum-drum for a 2009 camera. On a more positive note, though, the lens is quite fast, making it well-suited to underwater use, and the screen is bright enough to be clearly seen in all but the murkiest of conditions. All in all, Canon PowerShot D10 is a digital camera that you will not regret if you pay.
Pros: waterproof, freeze proof ,shockproof,elegant design,nice LCD display
Cons: a little heavy, high price
If you are interested in other Canon, please read
Canon PowerShot A480 Digital Camera Review
Canon PowerShot E1 digital camera review