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Canon has given its popular PowerShot series a face lift with the addition of the PowerShot G12 Digital Camera. While remaining true to many of its predecessor's features, the G12 comes busting out of the gate with what's fast becoming a standard on digital cameras: digital video (with stereo sound no less!). Shoot 1280 x 720p HD video with stereo audio using this compact, yet versatile camera. Awesome, right?
In addition to riding the video tide the G12 also stays competitive with its 10MP still image capture. Shoot RAW and JPEG files to SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, among others, with the help of the camera's 1/1.7" CCD image sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor, otherwise referred to as Canon's HS System. The G12 additionally sports a 3200 ISO setting for excellent shooting in low light settings.
Long loved for its unobtrusive nature, the PowerShot series of cameras are excellent for the pro or amateur alike - it's no behemoth Pro DSLR, but it still manages to pack in many of the exciting and appreciated features of one. That being said, the G12's a heck of a lot easier to carry around in your bag. Some additional features pros, or anyone looking to make great photos, will appreciate include, the option for manual control, along with Canon's much celebrated Hybrid IS function which is the combination of the genuine Canon 28mm lens, 5x optical zoom, and optical image stabilization. Hybrid IS is particularly touted to make easy work of capturing stunning macro shots.
Another notable feature on the G12 is its High Dynamic Range. Based on the principle of bracketing, HDR helps you capture a well balanced image that presents both highlights and low lights (AKA: shadow) in an appealing manner - giving your images that pop factor! This function also has an aspect to it named, i-Contrast. i-Contrast lets the user determine the amount of HDR correction that's applied to the image, which can be helpful in avoiding highlight blowout and keeping details from getting lost in the shadows. Canon's Tracking AF also comes into play here by allowing the shooter to select a subject to 'track' in case of movement while shooting.
You'll be happy to hear that Canon kept its well-received Vari-Angled LCD screen as well - giving you a whole 2.8" of flip-out, multi-angled flexibility for composition and playback of all your video and still images. As a step up from the previous permutation the G12 features a number of aspect ratios, including: 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, 4:5, and 16:9. Other notable features include Canon's Smart AUTO, electronic leveling, a high dynamic range, AF tracking, and a front dial - all of which are designed to help make your shooting enjoyable and successful.
In addition, a low light mode, new to the G series, lets you capture images in an astonishing range of conditions. The camera automatically adjusts the ISO speed from 3200 up to an enhanced 12800 when reacting to ambient brightness, subject movement, and camera shake
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Effective: 10 Megapixel, Actual Pixels: 10.4 Megapixel |
| Sensor | 1/1.7" CCD |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, MOV Audio: Linear PCM |
| Other Resolutions |
3648 x 2048 @ 16:9 3648 x 2432 @ 3:2 3648 x 2736 @ 4:3 2736 x 2736 @ 1:1 2192 x 2736 @ 4:5 |
| Aspect Ratio | 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, 4:5, 16:9 |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Color Spaces | sRGB |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens |
EFL: 28-140 mm Aperture: f/2.8 (W) - 4.5 (T) |
| Zoom |
Digital: 4x Optical: 5x |
| Focus Range |
Macro: 0.4" (1.02 cm) - 1.6" (4.06 cm) Auto: 1.6" (4.06 cm) - Infinity |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto, 80-3200 |
| Shutter | 15 - 1/4000 sec |
| Exposure Metering | Center-weighted, Evaluative, Spot |
| Exposure Modes | Modes: AE Lock, Auto ISO Shift |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Tungsten, Underwater |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes: Auto, FE Lock, Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction |
| Effective Flash Range | 16 - 23' (487.68 - 701.04 cm) |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Memory | |
|---|---|
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC SDXC MMC MMCplus HC MMCplus |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC/PAL |
| Video | |
|---|---|
| Video Clip Length | Up to 4GB or 2 Hours |
| Audio Recording | With Video, Stereo |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Type | Optical |
| Screen | 2.8" LCD |
| Connectivity/System Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Connectivity |
USB 2.0 Audio Out AV Output HDMI C (Mini) 1 Please Note:Audio out= stereo audio out close |
| Environmental | |
|---|---|
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
Operating 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C) |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| AC Power Adapter | ACK-DC50 (Optional) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 4.41 x 3 x 1.9" / 112.01 x 76.20 x 48.26 mm |
| Weight | 12.4 oz / 352 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Most Liked Positive Review
Excellent image quallity
I have been photographing for many years as both professional and enthusiast with Leica's, Hasselblad's and Nikon's, and I am continually amazed at the image quality from the Canon G12, even from its jpegs...Read complete review
I have been photographing for many years as both professional and enthusiast with Leica's, Hasselblad's and Nikon's, and I am continually amazed at the image quality from the Canon G12, even from its jpegs (RAW is very impressive). I typically photograph with both formats, jpg and RAW, and save times are typically three seconds at most--not inconvenient but not instant either. Startup is very fast with the G12, AF is accurate, and the close-up capabilities are crisply impressive at wide-angle. Lens flare is virtually non-existent, image contrast is very high, sharpness is excellent, noise is extremely well controlled, and chromatic aberrations are hard to find (and easily corrected with software). I'd previously owned a G9, which was notable, but the G12 blows it away. I've also owned the Panasonic ZS7, which the G12 leaves in the dust, and own an Olympus E-P2, which G12 images compare favorably with although not as detailed. Even when printing at 13 x 18 inches the G12 results are surprisingly nuanced and detailed with little or no noise (ISO 80-200). Needless to say, I'm very happy with the results. I think it's Canon best G series to date.MOVIES: AF (continuous), AE Lock, and Exposure Compensation ARE NOT AVAILABLE in movie mode! In other words whichever focus point you began with when you started shooting is exactly where the camera will remain for the remainder of that video. No, you can't begin with a close-up and then shift to focus on something far. The AF won't work. Which is dumb. A huge disappointment from Canon for those interested in video! I hope they fix this with a firmware update.SOFTWARE: The included Canon Digital Photo Professional software does a great job of converting RAW files into 16-bit or 8-bit Tiff, including manipulating the parameters for Unsharp Mask, and notates the RAW file so that your settings can be recalled when re-opened. It also lets you adjust White Balance, Contrast, Tone Curve, Saturation, Sharpness, Noise, Crop, etc. While it doesn't have the finesse of controls in Adobe Camera Raw (Adobe Bridge) it does a very good job, including Batch processing. HANDLING: I found the handling and heft of the Canon G12 to be very comfortable, especially in using the swivel-tilt LCD screen (which is very sharp, by the way). The knurled ring on the front just below the shutter/zoom button (which allows you to adjust shutter speed of aperture, depending on Mode) is very useful, although I times I found it too easy to mistake it for the zoom control.Infrequently I found myself wishing that the zoom range was a bit longer, perhaps 28 to 200mm. But realistically I think Canon's decision to limit the zoom range to 28-140mm (more than enough for most situations) is probably one of the factors that makes the lens such an outstanding performer. The Canon G12 is a great little camera that tries to compete with Micro Four Thirds and blows point-and-shoots out of the water.
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Most Liked Negative Review
Nice camera, but a little overpriced
Overall, I think the G12 is a nice camera. My last Canon G-Series was a G2, which I really liked. Since the G2, I've mainly use Panasonic FZ series digital compacts, because ...Read complete review
Overall, I think the G12 is a nice camera. My last Canon G-Series was a G2, which I really liked. Since the G2, I've mainly use Panasonic FZ series digital compacts, because of the high-quality Leica lenses, the zoom range, the ability to achieve focus quickly, and the intuitive controls. I made the switch to the G12 because I wanted better quality from high-ISO images, decent manual controls, and the capability to take HD movies. The good… The camera produces very nice images that I have no doubt will allow printing up to 12"x18" at near the quality of my D300. The images at ISO 100 and 200 are very clean, and ISO 400 is completely usable. The lens has a little bit of distortion (mainly at the wide end), but it is very sharp. Also, the zoom range is fairly decent. The camera feels nice in-hand, and has all of the main controls very accessible.The bad… My main gripe has to do with the build quality and the price. The build quality is definitely nice, but it doesn't feel as nice as what a [$] compact should provide. It really should have an all metal body in this price range (only the front plate is metal). Also, some of the dials feel a little cheap. The other gripe has to do with the controls. As you adjust aperture/shutter speed/ISO/etc., the camera feels a bit sluggish to respond. It's not as fast as my 2 year old Panasonic. It's also not a speed demon when it comes to focusing. It takes about ½ to 1 sec to focus in good light. It's not bad, but I was hoping for closer to DSLR-speed for a high-end compact camera in the $500 price range. The battery charge indicator isn't very useful – it goes from full charge (three bars) to dead in about 10 minutes of actual use. However, this syndrome is pretty common with digital compacts. The tripod hole is not centered with lens axis. Lastly, the optical finder is almost useless.Sorry, no ugly… it's a good looking camera with very intuitive controls.Because of the build quality and the sluggish controls, I'm left just a bit disappointed. I would probably be satisfied had I only paid $400 for this camera. Despite this, I will still enjoy the nice images that can be produced using this camera.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
We used as G12 as our second camera in our most recent trip. It takes very good pictures, is lightweight, and very quiet, which is perfect when taking pictures inside the church. Extremely happy with it.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
I have been a G-series owner from the beginning (G2, G7, G10, G11) and now the G12. I upgraded from the G11 due to the HD video and that was worth it. The video is very crisp and clear and even has good audio. The LCD screen is large and bright and it seems to do well in low light. If you are a raw shooter then this is the way to go for your point and shoot camera.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
The G12 is a very good point and shoot for both video and photos. I purchased it for our student newspaper because I wanted the paper to have a camera that took both high quality photos and was easy enough to use for novices. The G12 fit the bill. It has enough manual controls for photogs, but inexperienced people can still pick it up and go. My only complaint is I wish the spot focus was easier to access and use. All of the other manual controls are very easy to use and feel natural in the hand.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
this camera is perfect for the amateur or a great vacation camera for the pro. tons of cool features.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
Used for family events, Outdoor Scouting activity
Lots of features for a "non" SLR camera, yet compact enough to carry around without banging into things
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
Excellent service, great web site easy to use, fast shipping
And excellent camera!! for casual photographer
The colors are amazing!!
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
I am a frequent traveler who takes lots of photos. I'm getting older and carrying around my digital SLR and its attachments is tiring. I wanted a small camera with wide angle and zoom capability. The Power Shot G 12 is loaded with important extra features and the photos produced are outstanding.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
I have 3 dSLR cameras (5DmkII, T2i, and XTi), as well as a G9. The G12 can't match my dSLRs, but does come pretty darn close to the XTi, and blows the G9 away!
I love the "HDR" feature (takes 3 exposures and merges them in-camera). 720p video is also a plus (but not necessary). In general, the image quality is excellent for a point-and-shoot. And with a built-in hot-shoe, I can still use it with speedlights and strobes, all with a much faster x-sync speed as well.
Again, my preference is to shoot with my 5DmkII or T2i, but when I don't feel like lugging this gear around, the G12 fits the bill well. A purchase I don't regret.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
This is my second powershot camera. This model is a big ungrade for my general use. I need and use the water proof case for underwater pics and for rain/wet condition pictures. I have not played with all the bells and whistles, but am most happy with the LCD screen visibility, even with sunglasses and in the case. For the money spent, the pics and videos using the zoom or not are very good quality. I plan on many years with this camera.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
I've had it only a few weeks but I have given it a rigorous workout. It's pretty quick to start up, continous shooting is acceptable and the pictures are of good quality. The controls are easy to work and there are many different options. I used some of the automatic settings at times simply because I didn't have much time to get really familar with the camera and they usually yieled good results. I especially liked the My Colors feature and I found the ND filter to be handy.
I had read other reviews where they said the flash wasn't strong enough. I found it to be pretty strong and did not use my external, which I had carried with me. In fact, I had to power the flash down some.
I used the low light setting a lot and was surprisingly pleased with the results. There was the occasional photo that had noticeable noise, but not too many.
The only negative I thought was battery life. It really stinks. With the Canon battery, I got less than 200 shots. I had also bought a Pearstone brand as a backup battery and that lasted as long as the Canon one. When the battery starts to go-you'd better change it quick!
All in all, it was the perfect camera for the trip I took where I didn't want to lug around my DSLR and lenses, etc. I don't regret purchasing it.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
feels great in the hand, flawless inclusion of technology and wonderful improvements over the G7
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
It is small, it is easy to use, easy to carry, quality of pictures unbeleivable, can´t say anything bad about it
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
This a a great compliment to my SLR kit. It takes decent shots whilst not weighing the 5 kgs of my EOS 40D and lenses. The camera was obviously designed by people who use cameras as the controls are intuitive. The low light performance is better than expected and the build quality is in keeping with the price.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
Purchased camera to take pics when on a trip to Italy. I have been using camera to get familiar with functions and the pics are clean and crisp. I do own a Cannon RebelXT with additional lenses and was looking for a more compact camera that takes quality pics. So far I am impressed.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
I am a newcomer to photography and didn't want to go SLR but wanted something better than your average digital point and shoot....the G12 is IT. It is a powerful camera with a huge set of capabilities but still easy to learn and use as a beginner. What is most impressive about it is its size. For someone who does a lot of outdoor activities and wants to shoot great pics without getting slowed down by a bulky SLR, this camera does it better than any other on the market for its size/weight.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
It is easy and simple to use but produces beautiful pictures. The best thing is that it is small and light, which makes it perfect for traveling.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
I am a former 35mm (film)camera user. For the past number of years, I have been using a small point & shoot, never really being satisfied with its diversity.
The G12 has proven to be the answer for me. It is small enough to easily transport. Having the settings on the outside of the camera allows quicker manipulation. Auto setting is wonderful. Perfect pictures n low light. I also love the movable screen. Only change I would make is the power of the zoom, but I can live without it.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
Very pleased with the 12. Contrary to some reviews the battery last for quite some time. Much longer than the point and shoots that use disposable batteries. It shoots Macro in Auto mode which is a plus. The controls are very intuitive for all those current or previous Canon owners.
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
I am exceedingly impressed with this camera's image quality and wealth of features. I have been searching for a small camera for travel that doesn't sacrifice on image quality, and this is it!
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Comments about Canon PowerShot G12 Digital Camera:
G12 inherits the simplicity of former Canon G models and still develops some new features
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