Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue)
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A memory card is not included with the camera.
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The Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue) is a sleek and compact camera that is simple to use and well suited to the amateur photographer. With a resolution of 12.1 megapixels and a 4x optical zoom, the A3100 provides the performance and features that are perfect for photographing family events, keeping up with children at play, or recording scenes and events during a vacation or business trip.
The camera has everything you need to make shooting fast, easy and fun including a large 2.7" LCD. There is a full range of performance features including enhanced Face Detection technology, and a DIGIC III Image Processor to keep every image looking its best. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack is lighter then AA batteries, and provides power for taking many photos and videos. The camera is compatible with SDHC and SDXC storage cards, offering up to 2TB (SDXC only) of convenient and reliable memory that users can take anywhere.
Even when the light is low, with a high 1600 ISO, optical image stabilization, and Low Light Mode you can still get great photos without using the built-in flash. Other features include Smart Auto Mode with Scene Detection Technology that recognizes up to 18 different scenes and automatically applies the optimum setting. You can also choose from 18 different scene modes including Super Vivid Mode and Poster Effect Mode. The PowerShot A3000 also features high quality construction and a stylish pocket-size design, making it a perfect travel companion.
- 12.1 Megapixel Resolution
- With 12.1 megapixels of resolution, you'll be able to capture superb detail and color resulting in beautiful prints with excellent sharpness and clarity at print sizes of over 20 x 30".
- 4x Optical Zoom Lens
- The 4x optical zoom lens is made to Canon's demanding specifications, and is capable of shooting close-ups, group shots or scenery.
- 2.7" LCD Display
- The 2.7" high-resolution LCD screen is crisp, clear, and bright so it is easy to frame your shots under even bright light conditions. It also features Night Display for easy viewing in low light.
- Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery Pack
- Lithium-ion battery makes the camera lighter and offers an easy alternative to recharge the battery.
- High Sensitivity
- The camera features high ISO sensitivity of up to ISO 1600 to reduce the effects of camera shake and sharpens subjects in low-light situations, providing you with greater shooting flexibility.
- Smart Auto Mode
- Smart Auto Mode has Scene Detection Technology that recognizes up to 18 different scenes and automatically applies the optimum settings required to capture the best picture.
- Low Light mode
- With an ISO of 500 - 3200, the Low Light mode takes the Canon PowerShot A3000 IS where no A-Series has gone before. Now even scenes notorious for having insufficient light, such as those lit by candles, fire, or street lamp, come through in fantastic color and clarity, with less noise. You can keep the feel of the scene intact without adding additional light.
- Face Detection Technology
- Face Detection Technology makes it easy to take pictures of friends, by tracking faces and providing correct exposure and focus for the best results. Face Select & Track allows one face to be given priority over others in a group if required, while Red-Eye Correction identifies and corrects red eyes, making sure everyone looks their best. The smart FaceSelf-Timer feature allows the photographer to be included in group photos, only taking the shot when an extra face has entered the frame.
- Super Vivid Mode
- Super Vivid Mode captures the colors you see with your mind's eye, saturating the scene with intense colors. Sunsets and floral scenes turn into bursts of color, and get your photo noticed.
- Poster Effect
- Poster Effect combines several similar shades into one color, turning subtle gradations into eye-catching, scene-popping contrasts.
- 18 Shooting Modes
- Choose from Auto, Program, Movie, or Special Scene where you can select from settings such as Night, Snow, Indoor, Beach and more to get the best possible image.
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Effective: 12.1 Megapixel, Actual Pixels: 12.4 Megapixel |
| Sensor | 1/2.3" CCD |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG Movies: AVI Audio: WAV |
| Max Resolution | 4000 x 3000 |
| Other Resolutions |
3264 x 2448 2592 x 1944 1600 x 1200 640 x 480 4000 x 2248 @ 16:9 1600 x 1200 1 Please Note:1600 x 1200 is Low Light Mode close |
| Aspect Ratio | 4:3, 16:9 |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens |
EFL: 6.2-24.8 mm (35mm equivalent: 35-140 mm) Aperture: f/2.7 (W) - 5.6 (T) |
| Zoom | Optical: 4x |
| Focus Range |
Auto: 12" (30.48 cm) - Infinity Macro: 1.2" (3.05 cm) - 24" (60.96 cm) |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto, 100-1600 |
| Shutter | 15 - 1/1600 seconds |
| Exposure Metering | Center-weighted, Evaluative, Spot |
| Exposure Modes |
Modes: Auto, Program Compensation: -2 EV to +2 EV (in 1/3 EV steps) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Fluorescent, Manual, Fluorescent H |
| Burst Rate | Up to 0.8 fps |
| Self Timer |
10 Seconds, 2 Seconds
2
Please Note:10-seconds delay/approx. 2-sec. delay/custom* Shooting start time (0-10 sec (in one-second increments), 15/20/30 sec.) and number of shots (1-10 (in one-second increments)) can be specified. close |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes: Auto, Flash On, Off, Red-eye Reduction, Slow Sync |
| Effective Flash Range | 1 - 13' (0.30 - 3.96 m) |
| Memory | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | None |
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC SDXC MMC |
| Still Images per GB | JPEG: 307 @ Highest Resolution |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC/PAL |
| Video | |
|---|---|
| Video Clip Length | Limited by Memory Card Capacity |
| Audio Recording | With Video, Mono |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Type | None |
| Screen | 2.7" LCD (230000 pixels) |
| Connectivity/System Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | USB 2.0 |
| Software Requirements |
Windows: XP, Vista, 7 Mac: OS X 10.1 or later |
| Environmental | |
|---|---|
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C) Humidity: 10 - 90% |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | NB-8L Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| AC Power Adapter | ACK-DC60 (Optional) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 3.83 x 2.29 x 1.11" / 97.28 x 58.17 x 28.19 mm |
| Weight | 5.47 oz / 155 g (Camera body only) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 34 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (25)
- Image stabilization (23)
- Good image quality (21)
- Nice body color (21)
- Compact (18)
Cons
- Lag / shutter delay (4)
- No viewfinder (3)
Best Uses
- Family photos (22)
- Travel (17)
- Landscape/scenery (14)
- Low light (13)
- Video (6)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual photographer (18), Photo enthusiast (13)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (15), Yes (14)
Most Liked Positive Review
Solid performance at a good price point
I use the PowerShot to supplement my SLR photography and as a primary camera for photos at casual gathers, family events and hikes. While I am out shooting events with my Canon D50 I ...Read complete review
I use the PowerShot to supplement my SLR photography and as a primary camera for photos at casual gathers, family events and hikes. While I am out shooting events with my Canon D50 I keep the A3100 handy for taking quick snaps where subjects may not notice a small point and shoot or be less intimidated by a small, friendly camera than a large SLR. I also use it when I have a large telephoto mounted on the SLR and need a quick wide angle shot. While not quite as thin and small as other Canon point and shoot models (SD940 IS for example) the camera it is still small enough to slip into a pocket or in a corner of a camera bag. Image quality is on par with or better than other similar point and shoot cameras.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Average Price for Average Camera
I bought this camera for the times I can't carry around my bulky Canon 7D (long road trips to non-scenic places, snow-skiing, hiking, biking, etc.). I lost my previous Canon Powershot ...Read complete review
I bought this camera for the times I can't carry around my bulky Canon 7D (long road trips to non-scenic places, snow-skiing, hiking, biking, etc.). I lost my previous Canon Powershot to the elements and wish I could remember what it was because I liked it better.
The PowerShot A3100 just feels a bit cheap. When I first picked it up, I got the impression that it has a lot more plastic than my previous PowerShot. There is a slight delay between pushing the shutter release button and the picture actually being taken (although I have experience much worse delay in friends' cameras).
The display leaves something to be desired. It is difficult to tell from looking at the screen what, if any, exposure compensations should be made. It is pretty grainy and the contrast ration seems too high (although I have not tried to discover if this can be adjusted).
Over all, the A3100 does what I want in taking "good-enough" pictures and it fits in my pocket. It is an average camera and I think the price is reasonable for what you get. I admit, I have probably been a bit spoiled with the 7D, so keep that in mind as you consider.
Reviewed by 34 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Large Clear LCD
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
Uses SD cards.
Automaticly switches to Macro when you get close to the subject.(Auto mode)
Good Size for a pocket camera.
IS works pretty well.
Battery holds power for well.
Better than I expected at the price.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Short Lag Time
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
This camera is one I bought for my son to use and get familiar with photography. I was impressed at the quality of the photos. I would highly recommend it as a great in-the-pocket camera when you don't want to lug the DSLR around.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
Purchased to use under low lighting conditions and for highly-detailed, close-up photography. Really liked the price, the amount of mega-pixels, the image stabilization feature and the macro capabilities. Do not like the materials used in the body of the camera - very light-weight which is great, but it does not feel durable. Also, it is difficult to open the tab covering the A/V USB port.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
I real love this little camera. I have a large dslr but carry this small point and shoot with me for the times that I cannot pull out the big guns. Picture quality is good, easy to use, nice and compact but not small enough where I can't work the buttons properly. It is great as a second camera.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
This camera is easy to take along on a trip. It takes good videos and the software that comes with it is easy to use and has good functionality.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- 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
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
We gave this camera to our 7 yr old child, and it was a huge hit! Our child has been able to use it easily. Taking pics is a breeze! Image quality is very good. Plenty of advanced features but auto-mode works great.
- 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
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
We have a grandson and taken 100s of pic and the all have come out priceless inside and out side
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
Detailed displays for shooting modes, complete with description and easy to identify icons. Makes shooting easy for beginners.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
Canon camera is great. [...] Thanks B & H you guys are great....
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
I am impressed with the camera and it's capabilities. I would recommend it as a great camera for the price.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Poor Image Stabilization
Best Uses
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
I chose this camera for the price and for the image stabilization. The price was great, but the photos are not very clear compared to a similar Panasonic. I'll run through the settings again, but I'm not impressed.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
Snap shots of family.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
This was a Christmas gift to upgrade an older Kodak. Took allot of pictures, very easy to use. I have other Canon's and always pleased with the product and quality.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Color Reproduction
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
- AutoFlash
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
We just replaced our old Canon that finally wore out. We chose another Canon because we love the picture quality. This one does not dissapoint. Great pictures for such a small camera. The camera itself is very atractive too. With the steady shot, videos look great. Only downside so far is that the auto flash tends to stay off when pictures look better with it on. To override this you have to switch to preset mode.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
I love the IS setting on this camera!!! Very good camera with a very good value!
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
I got this for my son and he loves it. takes great photos.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
I bought this camera for the times I can't carry around my bulky Canon 7D (long road trips to non-scenic places, snow-skiing, hiking, biking, etc.). I lost my previous Canon Powershot to the elements and wish I could remember what it was because I liked it better.
The PowerShot A3100 just feels a bit cheap. When I first picked it up, I got the impression that it has a lot more plastic than my previous PowerShot. There is a slight delay between pushing the shutter release button and the picture actually being taken (although I have experience much worse delay in friends' cameras).
The display leaves something to be desired. It is difficult to tell from looking at the screen what, if any, exposure compensations should be made. It is pretty grainy and the contrast ration seems too high (although I have not tried to discover if this can be adjusted).
Over all, the A3100 does what I want in taking "good-enough" pictures and it fits in my pocket. It is an average camera and I think the price is reasonable for what you get. I admit, I have probably been a bit spoiled with the 7D, so keep that in mind as you consider.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
I actually bought this camera for my mother, who isn't exactly tech-savvy. Canon's PowerShot A3100 has been incredibly easy to use, the dial options on top are familiar in set up to my mother's 35 mm, so there wasn't a huge learning curve there. Buttons are large enough for her to use, (I'm not a fan of the cramped tiny buttons on a camera, especially if you're pulling the camera out for a quick-moment capture. And of course, the quality of the pictures is fantastic.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Nice Body Color
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Poor Flash
Best Uses
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
An elegant camera with no problems in handling, setting up and using its features.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast/accurate auto-focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
- Low cost
- Nice Body Color
Cons
- Weak for fast action
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Digital Camera (Blue):
I use the PowerShot to supplement my SLR photography and as a primary camera for photos at casual gathers, family events and hikes. While I am out shooting events with my Canon D50 I keep the A3100 handy for taking quick snaps where subjects may not notice a small point and shoot or be less intimidated by a small, friendly camera than a large SLR. I also use it when I have a large telephoto mounted on the SLR and need a quick wide angle shot. While not quite as thin and small as other Canon point and shoot models (SD940 IS for example) the camera it is still small enough to slip into a pocket or in a corner of a camera bag. Image quality is on par with or better than other similar point and shoot cameras.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Memory Cards
Required item: Sufficient memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $6.20
- GBP 3.95
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $29.95
- GBP 19.08
-
- Original: $19.95
- Save: $1.99
- Price: $17.96
- GBP 11.44
Bags & Straps
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or a strap.
- Price: $13.00
- GBP 8.28
- Price: $7.99
- GBP 5.09
Screen Protectors
Protect your LCD screen from scratches and finger prints.
-
- Original: $7.95
- Save: $0.79
- Price: $7.16
- GBP 4.56
Card Readers
Download your pictures faster and save battery life.
- Price: $9.95
- GBP 6.34
What's in the Box
- Lithium-ion Battery NB-8L
- Battery Charger CB-2LA
- Wrist Strap WS-800
- Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM
- USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
- AV Cable AVC-DC400
- 1-year Manufacturer's Limited Warranty
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