Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera
- Price: $449.00
- Instant Savings: -$20.00 Offer ends MAY 25 '13
- You Pay: $429.00
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
- B&H # CAPSSX50
- Mfr# 6352B001
Product Highlights
- 24-1200mm (35mm Equivalent) Lens
- 50x Optical Zoom
- 12.1MP CMOS Sensor
- DIGIC 5 Image Processor
- 2.8" Vari-Angle LCD with Viewfinder
- Full HD 1080p Video with Stereo Sound
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- High Speed AF Focuses in 0.19 sec
- High-Speed Burst HQ for 13fps Shooting
- Built-in Hot Shoe
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The Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera is the world's first compact digital camera with a 50x optical zoom lens. The impressive focal length range extends all the way from a wide-angle 24mm to a super-telephoto 1200mm (35mm equivalent). The camera has a 12.1MP CMOS image sensor and a DIGIC 5 Image Processor, enabling you to capture high-resolution JPEG and RAW still images, as well as full HD 1080p video with stereo sound. The 2.8" Vari-Angle LCD monitor features a resolution of 461,000 pixels and an electronic viewfinder.
Sensitivity up to ISO 6400 helps the camera produce clear, detailed images even in low-light situations. Optical image stabilization compensates for camera shake in these conditions for crisp, blur-free image quality. High Speed AF provides fast 0.19-sec focusing, improving upon the SX40 HS's 0.38 sec, and a reduction in shooting lag time from 0.45 sec (on the SX40 HS) to 0.25 sec to ensure that you don't miss a shot. Zoom Framing Assist Seek and Lock functions make it easy to track your subjects and keep them centered in the frame until you capture the image.
High-Speed Burst HQ enables continuous capture at 13fps for up to 10 frames. Smart AUTO mode automatically chooses the best camera settings for the situation, selecting from 58 predefined scenarios. Face ID adjusts focus and exposure priority based upon up to 12 pre-registered faces. A variety of shooting modes are at your disposal as well, including Manual, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Program, plus Movie Digest for combining a whole day's worth of clips into a video, Stitch Assist for panoramic shots, and many more. High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode combines 3 different exposures into one evenly-lit image.
With the camera's built-in hot shoe, you can use optional Canon Speedlite flashes, such as the 270EX II, 320EX, and 600EX-RT. Using a USB cable and the PictBridge interface, one can enjoy the ability to print directly from the camera to a compatible printer without using a computer.
- World's First Compact Digital Camera With 50x Optical Zoom Lens
- The 4.3-215mm focal length range extends all the way from a wide-angle 24mm to a super-telephoto 1200mm (35mm equivalent), for exceptional versatility up close and far away
- CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 5 Processor
- A 12.1MP CMOS image sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor combine to form Canon's HS SYSTEM, enabling you to capture high-resolution JPEG and RAW still images--including RAW+JPEG--and full HD 1080p video with stereo sound. The combination of sensor and processor permits the use of higher shutter speeds for clearer images with less blur and reduced noise, and also allows for improved tracking performance, even in low light. The CMOS sensor provides clear image capture at high ISO levels with low noise. The camera uses a 12-bit converter to process the output of the sensor, producing true color, smooth tonal transitions and natural gradations. The processor gives you faster continuous shooting speeds at high resolutions and also aids in lens correction and special scene modes.
- RAW Image Capture
- Shooting in RAW mode records all the information captured by the sensor, giving you maximum flexibility and creative control when editing your images with Canon's included software. In RAW mode, choose from several aspect ratios, including 16:9, 3:2, 4:3, 1:1, and 4:5. Record simultaneously in RAW and JPEG formats, as well
- Vari-Angle LCD with Viewfinder
- The camera features a 2.8" Vari-Angle LCD monitor with a resolution of 461,000 pixels and an electronic viewfinder with approximately 202,000 pixels. The LCD flips out and rotates/swivels to enable shooting at various angles, as well as the capture of perfectly-framed self-portraits. It provides approximately 100% coverage
- High Sensitivity
- Sensitivity up to ISO 6400 helps the camera produce clear, detailed images even in low-light situations
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- Delivers clear, blur-free image quality in low light or when the camera shakes, without the use of a tripod. Plus, you have Intelligent IS to automatically select from six different modes to optimize image stabilization for the given situation: Normal, Panning, Macro (Hybrid) and Tripod IS for stills; and Dynamic, Powered, Macro and Tripod IS for video. Dynamic IS, effective at wide-angle focal lengths, has been improved, now compensating for rotational movement centered on the optical axis in addition to horizontal tilt and vertical pitch. Panning ensures IS does not interfere with camera movement. Hybrid corrects for shift-type camera shake that normally occurs during macro shooting. Powered mode compensates for hand movement at telephoto focal lengths, where camera shake gets magnified. Tripod mode automatically stops the IS system when tripod use is detected, because it is no longer necessary
- Fast Focusing and Shorter Lag Time
- High Speed AF provides faster focusing at 0.19 sec, compared to 0.38 sec on the SX40 HS, and a reduction in shooting lag time from 0.45 sec (on the SX40 HS) to 0.25 sec also helps ensure that you don't miss a shot (measured at light value LV 13, P mode / Single AF (center point)). Camera has both TTL autofocus and manual focus
- Zoom Framing Assist Seek and Lock
- The Seek functions make it easy to locate and track your subject, even at a long distance, and keep it centered in the frame until you capture the image. Just press a button and this function recalls your previous zoom position, zooms out to let you locate the subject, and zooms right back to the saved position when you release the button. With Zoom Framing Assist Lock, the camera locks onto and automatically tracks your subject, keeping it in the center of the frame until you're ready to capture that close-up shot
- High-Speed Continuous Shooting
- High-Speed Burst HQ enables continuous capture at 13fps for up to 10 frames. Other continuous shooting speeds: Normal: approximately 2.2 shots/sec. in P mode. AF: approximately 0.8 shots/sec in P mode, approximately 4.1 shots/sec in High-Speed Burst HQ. LV: approximately 0.9 shots/sec in P mode
- Full HD 1080p Video
- Capture high-definition 1920x1080p with stereo sound at 24fps via a dedicated movie button embedded in the camera's thumb pad. You can also record in HD 1280x720p at 30fps, including in iFrame movie format and Movie Digest modes. In Miniature Effect, you can record 1280x720 video or VGA 640x480 video at 6, 3 or 1.5fps. Additionally, you can record 640x480 video at 30fps. Super Slow Motion Movie lets you capture video at 640x480 at 120fps or 320x240 at 240fps. Use the full zoom range while you shoot movies, and view playback on an HDTV via the camera's HDMI output (HDMI cable sold separately).
- Smart AUTO and Face ID
- The Smart AUTO option takes the guesswork out of shooting by automatically selecting the best camera setting for the scene, from 58 predefined shooting situations. Face ID adjusts focus and exposure priority based upon pre-registered faces. You can register up to 12 faces
- Shooting Modes
- Custom lets you define and store your own settings. Manual affords you complete control over exposure. In Aperture Priority, you set the aperture, controlling depth-of-field, and the camera sets the shutter speed. In Shutter Priority, you choose the shutter speed and the camera finds the appropriate aperture. With slow exposure times, Canon's noise reduction system is activated to ensure reduced image noise. Program mode gives you access to advanced exposure compensation features while shooting mostly automatically. In Movie Digest mode, the camera records a video clip prior to capturing a still image and then combines a day's worth of clips into a video. You can easily playback and review clips and delete unwanted scenes. In Sports mode, the camera uses a high shutter speed to capture fast-moving subjects. Portrait mode provides a wide aperture, focusing the subject and blurring the background. Other shooting modes available include Smooth Skin, Smart Shutter for detecting smiles and winks, Handheld Night Scene, Snow, and Fireworks. Stitch Assist lets you create panoramic photos by combining multiple frames. Creative Filters available include Toy Camera, Poster Effect, Monochrome and more. High Dynamic Range combines 3 different exposures into a single evenly-lit image. Plus, you have Fisheye, Miniature Effect for Movies & Stills, Soft Focus, Super Vivid, Color Accent and Color Swap modes. The iFrame Movie mode makes it easier and faster to import and upload videos while retaining high image quality, while Super Slow Motion Movie records clips at a fast 240fps for detailed slow-motion playback
- Photo Effects
- Choose from My Colors Off, Vivid, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, Positive Film, Lighter Skin Tone, Darker Skin Tone, Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, Vivid Red, Custom Color
- Built-in Flash
- Auto, Flash On, Slow Synchro, and Flash Off modes are available. Flash exposure compensation is ±2 stops in 1/3-stop increments
- Hot Shoe for Flashes
- The camera's built-in hot shoe is compatible with optional Canon Speedlite flashes, such as the 270EX II, 320EX, 430EX II and 600EX-RT to improve lighting
- Self-Timer with Custom Setting
- Options for the self-timer include 10-sec and 2-sec delay, as well as a custom setting allowing for a delay of 0-15 sec in one-sec increments or 20, 25 or 30 sec.
- Playback Options
-
Stills and videos: Auto Rotate (Automatic vertical/horizontal detection), Index Continuous Display, Image Advance (Operation Tools, Transition Effects, Scroll Display), Rotate, Favorites, My Category, Smart Shuffle, Group Playback, Movie Digest, Slideshow (Playback Interval, Repeat, Effect, Playlist)
Still images: Single, Index, Magnification (2-10x), Switch to other images while zoomed, Information Display, Red-eye Correction, i-Contrast, Photobook Setup, Trimming, Resize, My Colors, Face ID info, Focus Check, Histogram, RGB Histogram, Location Information, Overexposure Warning
Videos: Normal Playback with audio settings available in 5 levels, Slow Motion, Skip Backward (approximately 4 sec), Previous Frame (slow motion available), Next Frame (slow motion available), Skip Forward (approximately 4 sec), Erase chapters, Editing
With the included ImageBrowser EX software, 8 levels (1/8x to 1x) of playback speed are possible for Super Slow Motion Movies on your computer
- Erase Mode
- Select Image, Select Range, Select All Images. The image data in the memory card stored with the Design rule for Camera File systems format can be erased, but protected images cannot be erased. By using the Movie editing function, you can delete sections of the movie
- Direct Printing to Compatible Printers
- With Canon's Direct Print system, simply connect the camera to a Canon PIXMA, SELPHY or PictBridge-compatible photo printer via USB and press the button to print your pictures
- Supported Languages
- English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Portuguese, Korean, Greek, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Thai, Arabic, Romanian, Ukrainian, Farsi, Hindi, Malay, Indonesian and Vietnamese
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Pixels |
Actual: 12.8 Megapixel Effective: 12.1 Megapixel |
| Sensor | 1/2.3" CMOS |
| Bit Depth | 12-bit |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, MOV Audio: Linear PCM |
| Max Resolution | 12MP: 4000 x 3000 @ 4:3 |
| Other Resolutions |
5.9MP: 2816 x 2112 @ 4:3 1.9MP: 1600 x 1200 @ 4:3 0.3MP: 640 x 480 @ 4:3 10.7MP: 4000 x 2664 @ 3:2 5.3MP: 2816 x 1880 @ 3:2 1.7MP: 1600 x 1064 @ 3:2 0.3MP: 640 x 424 @ 3:2 9MP: 4000 x 2248 @ 16:9 4.5MP: 2816 x 1584 @ 16:9 2MP: 1920 x 1080 @ 16:9 0.2MP: 640 x 360 @ 16:9 9MP: 2992 x 2992 @ 1:1 4.5MP: 2112 x 2112 @ 1:1 1.4MP: 1200 x 1200 @ 1:1 0.2MP: 480 x 480 @ 1:1 7.2MP: 2400 x 3000 @ 4:5 3.6MP: 1696 x 2112 @ 4:5 1.2MP: 960 x 1200 @ 4:5 0.18MP: 384 x 480 @ 4:5 |
| Aspect Ratio | 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, 4:5, 16:9 |
| Image Stabilization | Optical & Digital |
| Color Spaces | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens |
EFL: 4.3-215 mm (35 mm equivalent: 24-1200 mm) Aperture: f/3.4 (W) - 6.5 (T) |
| Filter Thread | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Zoom |
Optical: 50x Digital: 4x |
| Focus Range |
Wide: 2.0" (5.08 cm) - Infinity Wide: 3.3' (1.01 m) - Infinity Telephoto: 4.3' (1.31 m) - Infinity Telephoto: 43' (13.11 m) - Infinity Auto: 0.0" (0.00 cm) - Infinity Wide Macro: 0.0" (0.00 cm) - 1.6' (0.49 m) |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto, 80-6400 |
| Shutter |
1 - 1/2000 sec 15 - 1/2000 sec in Manual Mode |
| Exposure Metering | Center-weighted, Evaluative, Spot |
| Exposure Modes |
Modes: AE Lock, Aperture Priority, Manual, Program, Program Shift, Safety Shift, Shutter Priority Compensation: -3 EV to +3 EV (in 1/3 EV steps) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Custom, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Tungsten |
| Burst Rate | Up to 13 fps for up to 10 frames |
| Self Timer | 2 Sec, 10 Sec, 30 Sec |
| Remote Control | RS-60E3 (Optional) |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Flash Modes |
Auto Flash On Off Slow Sync |
| Built-in Flash | Yes |
| Effective Flash Range |
Wide: 1.6 - 18' (0.49 - 5.49 m) Telephoto: 4.6 - 9.8' (1.40 - 2.99 m) |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Memory | |
|---|---|
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC SDXC |
| Still Images per GB |
JPEG: 172 @ Highest Resolution - 7675 @ Lowest Resolution RAW: 55 @ Highest Resolution |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC/PAL |
| Video | |
|---|---|
| Audio Recording | With Video, Stereo |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
| Diopter Adjustment | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Viewfinder Coverage | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Screen | 2.8" LCD Rear Screen Swivel (461000 pixels) |
| Connectivity/System Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | AV Output, HDMI C (Mini), USB 2.0 |
| Environmental | |
|---|---|
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
Operating 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C) Humidity: 10 - 90% |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | NB-10L Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 7.4VDC, 920mAh |
| AC Power Adapter | CA-PS700 (Optional) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 4.8 x 3.4 x 4.2" / 12.2 x 8.6 x 10.7 cm |
| Weight | 1.2 lb / 0.54 kg |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 88 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
95%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Zoom range/performance (82)
- Good image quality (73)
- Easy to use (67)
- Image stabilization (65)
- Large clear LCD (59)
Cons
- Short battery life (13)
- Lag / shutter delay (11)
- Poor flash (3)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (66)
- Wildlife (61)
- Travel (55)
- Family photos (46)
- Sports/action (28)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (48), Casual photographer (22), Semi-pro photographer (15)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (78), Yes (10)
Most Liked Positive Review
Tremendous image stabilization
Took a picture at the zoo of a baby cheetah sleeping in the back of a small cave. It was distant (20 feet minimum), dark, and I didn't have a tripod. The ...Read complete review
Took a picture at the zoo of a baby cheetah sleeping in the back of a small cave. It was distant (20 feet minimum), dark, and I didn't have a tripod. The SX50 nailed it there times out of five. The others were a little blurry due to the slow shutter speed. Yet I insisted on using a low ISO for quality, so I accepted the slow shutter speed and the fact that not all would be clear.
.
It has a tremendous image stabilization system and you can feel it fighting you as you move the camera slightly. It was also a cloudy, dark day and rain began one hour after I left the Washington National Zoo.
When I got to the otter exhibit I saw how fast they were, and how they offered a great pose every five seconds that they never repeated, I increased the ISO by a bunch (don't remember--more than 1,000) and got a quite usable shot. Only when I blew it up to 20 inches for a book did I see grain (noise) that wasn't all that horrible--just more noticeable than I would have liked...but it worked well.
When you rack the lens all the way out, as I did all the time at the zoo, the f-stop of course gets higher, meaning a smaller opening and slower shutter speed, and I wish it was a fast lens with a constant f stop. But that is asking a lot--basically I want it to do what a $2,000 lens does.
I did buy the filter adapter and use filters on it. They are big (67mm) and that is a good thing. I bought the less expensive filters. I wanted graduated neutral density, and there isn't enough room on tiny filters most often used on point and shoots for a gradual transition from the darkening in the sky that the filter provides to normal exposure for the land (or animal, in this case). So I don't mind buying the filter attachment and the large filters. Better than having a tiny filter. Anddon't buy a UV protective filter. Get a polarizer before anything else, a graduated neutral density and perhaps an overall neutral density filter. And you're done.
Let me repeat, that image stabilization system is amazing--saves the picture most of the time even at 50 times enlargement (to put it in consumer terms), which this camera does.
It shoots raw! If you use photoshop, that means you can change the color balance and lots of factors after you get home. It's like going back 50 miles to the zoo and taking the shot again--although you can't refocus. You need to get that right. And take a tripod like I didn't unless the animals are moving too fast or the crowds are too thick.
Yes, the battery gave out halfway through my two-hour shoot at the zoo, but you always, always buy an extra battery, and I had it with me.
While it's little flash isn't going to do you much good, it has a shoe for a very big flash.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Decent camera but.....
I use the camera for outdoor activities.
Thing I don't like about the camera:
I always use a filter to protect the lens. You have to purchase a filter adap...Read complete review
I use the camera for outdoor activities.
Thing I don't like about the camera:
I always use a filter to protect the lens. You have to purchase a filter adapter ring and a new lens cover. This is footnoted but displayed in the manual.
The "movie" and "self-timer" buttons need to be recessed to prevent accidental activation.
The quality of the "super slow motion" leaves much to be desired.
Some colors (particularly red) get blended together.
Auto-focus is a little slow.
What I like:
Great zoom features. 1200mm zoom, zoom stablization (anti-shake), zoom out/in feature to aid in locating the subject.
User custom defined settings (2).
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 88 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Great Camera - Going on vacation and can't wait to use it. Already used it on my grandchildren - Still have lots to learn about this new friend of mine !
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
Cons
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I use the PowerSHot SX50 HS mostly for nature photography. It's excellent. THe zoom is incredible and the pictures are clear and striking. I strongly recommend this camera.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
This camera is great. The pictures and the zoom are both great. As always purchasing from B&H is a trouble free experience.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I recommended this camera to a friend, showed him photos and he bought two from B&H Photo as gifts for his wife and son.
Want a close-up of a bird? Using the SX50 as a point and shoot you can get incredible photos of the moon and its craters...
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by CanonFL
Images shared by CanonFL
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
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- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I use it for my personal use to make color swap/color accent photos a lot. That's one of the main reasons I like it, but I hate the fact that there's no written manual which means I have to wait to get home if I need to find something out.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
It is easy to use and the pictures are very clear. The zoom is great. I can see far away objects clearly. I got it to use when we vacation and also for taking pictures of wildlife. I have mostly used the automatic setting, but intend to learn to use manual settings so I can get even better pictures.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I bought this camera for its zoom capability. I am a birder and use the camera for identifying birds that I cannot ID quickly through my binoculars. There are too many functions that are centered around human subjects and face recognition. The autofocus on my SLR works perfectly. This camera tries to be too smart. It incoporates most of the features of my Canon SLR and then some. All this with optics not really comparable to my SLR lenses.
Also, the self-timer button is in absolutely the wrong place. I have lost many good shots by hitting this by accident.
- Ease of Operation:
- 4
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Without the weight, size and complexity of other SLR cameras, this is an ideal substitute for a young family. 50x zoom, good pixel density and full HD video at 24 fps.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I also own a SX20... I really like the AA batteries it uses ... if you lose power ... you can grab a few anywhere in the world.
I read the SX50 lithium battery would last longer but that is not my experience in the bahamas last week. Just make sure you have a couple extra charged batteries handy.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
This is my first camera with such a powerful zoom lens and it is amazing. I bought it and went straight to Central Park to go birding. Using auto lens I got great close-ups and didn't even read the manual
Feels great in my hands; very light weight.
Only downside so far is once in awhile the main image is out of focus. Guess its onto manual!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Poor Flash
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Plan to use for Freelancing in Landscape and Candid. Many features and love the video...excellent quality. Overall great buy here and the 50X Zoom is amazing...really lets you get in close without loss of resolution. Also the macro is excellent too.
Glad I bought it...plan to use it beaucoup!
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Marco
Macro Daffodil HDR
Images shared by Marco
Pond Island Lighthouse...Maine...50X Zoom
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I bought this camera after watching my friend use one in Costa Rica on a birding trip. With the 50x optical zoom, she got the best pictures of all the group. I couldn't come close with my SLR digital camera with a 200 mm zoom lens. It is so light, that just with a monopod, her pictures came out clear. Even with a tripod, I can't get pictures that good with my 300 mm lens. The best part, is that she could zoom back in to get pictures of the group or one person without changing lenses. We were all very impressed with this camera and when we got home, two of us bought the same one.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I have only had it a few weeks, but the photo quality is great. The 50x lens even fully extended without a tripod takes very clear images.
so far so good.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Poor Image Quality
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Best for snap shots
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
My husband and I were looking for an upgrade from our very basic point and shoot, and began doing some research! We looked at DSLR cameras however at this point we just didn't feel like we were ready to make that jump. This camera came highly recommended, had great reviews, and it was also at a price we both felt comfortable with! We went to Hawaii and felt that the camera took fantastic pictures of our trip! We have been incredibly pleased with the quality of photos it takes, as well as videos! The zoom is also fantastic!
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Battery Life Good So Far
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Function Buttons To Close
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Nature Photography, including birds and wildflowers. Telephoto to 1200mm great for perched birds. Macro function supports some zooming instead of just a fixed wide angle.
Buttons for different functions close together, sometimes get pressed accidently with my medium sized hands.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- Nikon D90
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
This is absolutely the best camera for less than $ dollars anyone can buy. Superb image quality and an incredibly versatile lens, great low light mode are all hallmarks of this fine camera
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
Cons
- A little bulky
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
We are headed to Alaska and I needed a quality camera that has an awesome zoom and this camera has it!!!
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Light And Easy To Carry
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I purchased this camera to have a lighter and smaller package to carry around on my bike and for telephoto quick shots. I also bought the SX50 because of its capability to shoot RAW.
The telephoto works well but the focus is not as sharp as I'm used to with my Mark III and L glass, but you get what you pay for. Another frustration was that I had to upgrade to CS6 or LR4 to process the RAW files which were not compatible with CS5.
The camera works for my purposes and I would recommend it for those not used to higher end DSLR cameras and lenses.
No manual included with the camera is a downer also.
- Ease of Operation:
- 6
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Lens hood
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I'm usually a Canon DSLR user, but the lure of a 1200mm reach was just too much which is why I got this camera. To get remotely close to 1200mm on a DSLR you'll be paying a minimum of about $1500: a 500mm lens plus a 2x teleconvertor and even then it's a very poor and bulky solution.
What I quickly learned about the SX50 is that it's no DSLR. The controls definitely feel like point-and-shoot land, the layout of the controls is cramped. It's easy to accidently flick into movie mode or macro mode; the scene change dial is weird (why do I keep getting stuck in panorama assist?), and zooming via the little lever-thingy feels cheap.
Then there's the electronic viewfinder. Reviews warned that this was bad, but I didn't imagine it'd be totally unusable. It's just absolute rubbish. It can't be used for anything, ever. The LCD screen is always superior no matter what the conditions. That's the first thing that reminds you this is no DSLR.
On the plus side it starts up very quickly, zooms smoothly, is easy to use, the auto setting does a good job in most conditions, it looks good, is small(ish) and light, and compared with a DSLR is very easy to quickly grab and shoot.
In the end you get this camera because of the zoom. You might think 50x zoom is all you'll need and you won't be touching that digital zoom. Well, it's remarkable how quickly the 50x doesn't seem all that much and be tempted to push into 100x territory. You only get the digital zoom option if you shoot jpeg only, so if you want to stay pure, select RAW+jpeg and the digital zoom is disabled. That said, the 100x images hold up very well. (But at 200x they're very choppy)
So far I've used this for some insect shots, birds, landscapes, and picking out otherwise-invisible distant details. It's a whole new world with this level of zoom. Every scene suddenly has loads of extra potential shots. Things that before you'd just shrug off as way beyond range become standard targets. That's fun!
There's no way this replaces a DSLR unless you're a full-auto DSLR user. The perfect place for this camera is in the DSLR kit bag as your 50x lens; for point-and-shoot users looking for something a bit quirky, for birders and travellers. It's also just loads of fun.
Check out the SX50 group on Flickr for loads of example shots.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 88 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
95%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Zoom range/performance (82)
- Good image quality (73)
- Easy to use (67)
- Image stabilization (65)
- Large clear LCD (59)
Cons
- Short battery life (13)
- Lag / shutter delay (11)
- Poor flash (3)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (66)
- Wildlife (61)
- Travel (55)
- Family photos (46)
- Sports/action (28)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (48), Casual photographer (22), Semi-pro photographer (15)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (78), Yes (10)
Most Liked Positive Review
Tremendous image stabilization
Took a picture at the zoo of a baby cheetah sleeping in the back of a small cave. It was distant (20 feet minimum), dark, and I didn't have a tripod. The ...Read complete review
Took a picture at the zoo of a baby cheetah sleeping in the back of a small cave. It was distant (20 feet minimum), dark, and I didn't have a tripod. The SX50 nailed it there times out of five. The others were a little blurry due to the slow shutter speed. Yet I insisted on using a low ISO for quality, so I accepted the slow shutter speed and the fact that not all would be clear.
.
It has a tremendous image stabilization system and you can feel it fighting you as you move the camera slightly. It was also a cloudy, dark day and rain began one hour after I left the Washington National Zoo.
When I got to the otter exhibit I saw how fast they were, and how they offered a great pose every five seconds that they never repeated, I increased the ISO by a bunch (don't remember--more than 1,000) and got a quite usable shot. Only when I blew it up to 20 inches for a book did I see grain (noise) that wasn't all that horrible--just more noticeable than I would have liked...but it worked well.
When you rack the lens all the way out, as I did all the time at the zoo, the f-stop of course gets higher, meaning a smaller opening and slower shutter speed, and I wish it was a fast lens with a constant f stop. But that is asking a lot--basically I want it to do what a $2,000 lens does.
I did buy the filter adapter and use filters on it. They are big (67mm) and that is a good thing. I bought the less expensive filters. I wanted graduated neutral density, and there isn't enough room on tiny filters most often used on point and shoots for a gradual transition from the darkening in the sky that the filter provides to normal exposure for the land (or animal, in this case). So I don't mind buying the filter attachment and the large filters. Better than having a tiny filter. Anddon't buy a UV protective filter. Get a polarizer before anything else, a graduated neutral density and perhaps an overall neutral density filter. And you're done.
Let me repeat, that image stabilization system is amazing--saves the picture most of the time even at 50 times enlargement (to put it in consumer terms), which this camera does.
It shoots raw! If you use photoshop, that means you can change the color balance and lots of factors after you get home. It's like going back 50 miles to the zoo and taking the shot again--although you can't refocus. You need to get that right. And take a tripod like I didn't unless the animals are moving too fast or the crowds are too thick.
Yes, the battery gave out halfway through my two-hour shoot at the zoo, but you always, always buy an extra battery, and I had it with me.
While it's little flash isn't going to do you much good, it has a shoe for a very big flash.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Decent camera but.....
I use the camera for outdoor activities.
Thing I don't like about the camera:
I always use a filter to protect the lens. You have to purchase a filter adap...Read complete review
I use the camera for outdoor activities.
Thing I don't like about the camera:
I always use a filter to protect the lens. You have to purchase a filter adapter ring and a new lens cover. This is footnoted but displayed in the manual.
The "movie" and "self-timer" buttons need to be recessed to prevent accidental activation.
The quality of the "super slow motion" leaves much to be desired.
Some colors (particularly red) get blended together.
Auto-focus is a little slow.
What I like:
Great zoom features. 1200mm zoom, zoom stablization (anti-shake), zoom out/in feature to aid in locating the subject.
User custom defined settings (2).
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 88 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Great Camera - Going on vacation and can't wait to use it. Already used it on my grandchildren - Still have lots to learn about this new friend of mine !
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
Cons
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I use the PowerSHot SX50 HS mostly for nature photography. It's excellent. THe zoom is incredible and the pictures are clear and striking. I strongly recommend this camera.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
This camera is great. The pictures and the zoom are both great. As always purchasing from B&H is a trouble free experience.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I recommended this camera to a friend, showed him photos and he bought two from B&H Photo as gifts for his wife and son.
Want a close-up of a bird? Using the SX50 as a point and shoot you can get incredible photos of the moon and its craters...
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by CanonFL
Images shared by CanonFL
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I use it for my personal use to make color swap/color accent photos a lot. That's one of the main reasons I like it, but I hate the fact that there's no written manual which means I have to wait to get home if I need to find something out.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
It is easy to use and the pictures are very clear. The zoom is great. I can see far away objects clearly. I got it to use when we vacation and also for taking pictures of wildlife. I have mostly used the automatic setting, but intend to learn to use manual settings so I can get even better pictures.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I bought this camera for its zoom capability. I am a birder and use the camera for identifying birds that I cannot ID quickly through my binoculars. There are too many functions that are centered around human subjects and face recognition. The autofocus on my SLR works perfectly. This camera tries to be too smart. It incoporates most of the features of my Canon SLR and then some. All this with optics not really comparable to my SLR lenses.
Also, the self-timer button is in absolutely the wrong place. I have lost many good shots by hitting this by accident.
- Ease of Operation:
- 4
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Without the weight, size and complexity of other SLR cameras, this is an ideal substitute for a young family. 50x zoom, good pixel density and full HD video at 24 fps.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I also own a SX20... I really like the AA batteries it uses ... if you lose power ... you can grab a few anywhere in the world.
I read the SX50 lithium battery would last longer but that is not my experience in the bahamas last week. Just make sure you have a couple extra charged batteries handy.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
This is my first camera with such a powerful zoom lens and it is amazing. I bought it and went straight to Central Park to go birding. Using auto lens I got great close-ups and didn't even read the manual
Feels great in my hands; very light weight.
Only downside so far is once in awhile the main image is out of focus. Guess its onto manual!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Poor Flash
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Plan to use for Freelancing in Landscape and Candid. Many features and love the video...excellent quality. Overall great buy here and the 50X Zoom is amazing...really lets you get in close without loss of resolution. Also the macro is excellent too.
Glad I bought it...plan to use it beaucoup!
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Marco
Macro Daffodil HDR
Images shared by Marco
Pond Island Lighthouse...Maine...50X Zoom
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I bought this camera after watching my friend use one in Costa Rica on a birding trip. With the 50x optical zoom, she got the best pictures of all the group. I couldn't come close with my SLR digital camera with a 200 mm zoom lens. It is so light, that just with a monopod, her pictures came out clear. Even with a tripod, I can't get pictures that good with my 300 mm lens. The best part, is that she could zoom back in to get pictures of the group or one person without changing lenses. We were all very impressed with this camera and when we got home, two of us bought the same one.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I have only had it a few weeks, but the photo quality is great. The 50x lens even fully extended without a tripod takes very clear images.
so far so good.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Poor Image Quality
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Best for snap shots
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
My husband and I were looking for an upgrade from our very basic point and shoot, and began doing some research! We looked at DSLR cameras however at this point we just didn't feel like we were ready to make that jump. This camera came highly recommended, had great reviews, and it was also at a price we both felt comfortable with! We went to Hawaii and felt that the camera took fantastic pictures of our trip! We have been incredibly pleased with the quality of photos it takes, as well as videos! The zoom is also fantastic!
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Battery Life Good So Far
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
Cons
- Function Buttons To Close
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
Nature Photography, including birds and wildflowers. Telephoto to 1200mm great for perched birds. Macro function supports some zooming instead of just a fixed wide angle.
Buttons for different functions close together, sometimes get pressed accidently with my medium sized hands.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- Nikon D90
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
This is absolutely the best camera for less than $ dollars anyone can buy. Superb image quality and an incredibly versatile lens, great low light mode are all hallmarks of this fine camera
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
Cons
- A little bulky
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
We are headed to Alaska and I needed a quality camera that has an awesome zoom and this camera has it!!!
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Light And Easy To Carry
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I purchased this camera to have a lighter and smaller package to carry around on my bike and for telephoto quick shots. I also bought the SX50 because of its capability to shoot RAW.
The telephoto works well but the focus is not as sharp as I'm used to with my Mark III and L glass, but you get what you pay for. Another frustration was that I had to upgrade to CS6 or LR4 to process the RAW files which were not compatible with CS5.
The camera works for my purposes and I would recommend it for those not used to higher end DSLR cameras and lenses.
No manual included with the camera is a downer also.
- Ease of Operation:
- 6
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Lens hood
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera:
I'm usually a Canon DSLR user, but the lure of a 1200mm reach was just too much which is why I got this camera. To get remotely close to 1200mm on a DSLR you'll be paying a minimum of about $1500: a 500mm lens plus a 2x teleconvertor and even then it's a very poor and bulky solution.
What I quickly learned about the SX50 is that it's no DSLR. The controls definitely feel like point-and-shoot land, the layout of the controls is cramped. It's easy to accidently flick into movie mode or macro mode; the scene change dial is weird (why do I keep getting stuck in panorama assist?), and zooming via the little lever-thingy feels cheap.
Then there's the electronic viewfinder. Reviews warned that this was bad, but I didn't imagine it'd be totally unusable. It's just absolute rubbish. It can't be used for anything, ever. The LCD screen is always superior no matter what the conditions. That's the first thing that reminds you this is no DSLR.
On the plus side it starts up very quickly, zooms smoothly, is easy to use, the auto setting does a good job in most conditions, it looks good, is small(ish) and light, and compared with a DSLR is very easy to quickly grab and shoot.
In the end you get this camera because of the zoom. You might think 50x zoom is all you'll need and you won't be touching that digital zoom. Well, it's remarkable how quickly the 50x doesn't seem all that much and be tempted to push into 100x territory. You only get the digital zoom option if you shoot jpeg only, so if you want to stay pure, select RAW+jpeg and the digital zoom is disabled. That said, the 100x images hold up very well. (But at 200x they're very choppy)
So far I've used this for some insect shots, birds, landscapes, and picking out otherwise-invisible distant details. It's a whole new world with this level of zoom. Every scene suddenly has loads of extra potential shots. Things that before you'd just shrug off as way beyond range become standard targets. That's fun!
There's no way this replaces a DSLR unless you're a full-auto DSLR user. The perfect place for this camera is in the DSLR kit bag as your 50x lens; for point-and-shoot users looking for something a bit quirky, for birders and travellers. It's also just loads of fun.
Check out the SX50 group on Flickr for loads of example shots.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Memory Cards
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- Price: $14.95
Batteries & Power
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- Price: $39.95
- Price: $19.95
Bags & Straps
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- Price: $13.79
Lenses, Hoods, Filters & Adapters
Show more >
- Price: $6.00
Will only work with the filter adapter (FA-DC67A).
- Price: $24.99
This adapter is required for the 67mm lens filter size.
Screen Protectors
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- Price: $7.49
USB Cables
- Price: $15.95
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