Canon G7

The new Canon G7 features a 10 megapixel, 1/1.8 inch sensor, DIGIC III image processor, Face Detection, 35-210mm lens and optical image stabilization system. The Canon G7 will be available in October 2006 for $599.99 / £449.00 / €649.99.

Canon USA Press Release

Canon Combines Top-Tier Tech and Classic Camera Design into Line Leading 10-Megapixel Canon PowerShot G7 Digital Camera

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y. --Sept. 14, 2006-- The Canon PowerShot G7 digital camera, the new flagship of Canon’s ever popular fleet of PowerShot digital cameras will be sailing into stores beginning in October, equipped with a boatload of Canon’s newest technological achievements and user-friendly features and carrying an estimated selling price of $599.99.* Designed to delight even the most die-hard photo enthusiast, the 10-megapixel Canon G7 digital camera continues the tradition of imaging excellence, innovation and ease of use that began when the PowerShot G1 was introduced a mere six years ago.

Photokina Update: We now have some product photos live from Photokina 2006 - just click the link below to view them.

Compact and comfortable to hold, handle and use, the PowerShot G7 digital camera is an aesthetic treat as well, harking back to the look and feel of classic Canon cameras. From its retro “wet black matte finish,” leather-toned grip and the detailed knurling and analog-style “click-click” of the camera’s top side ISO Speed Dial and Shooting Mode Dial, to the stylish metallic accents of the body’s aluminum-finish parts and metallic-finish bayonet ring, this PowerShot G7 conveys a sense of “camera-ness” rarely encountered in the world of digital photography. Photo panache and feel appeal not withstanding, the PowerShot G7 remains true to the G-Class tradition by offering an array of the industry’s advanced photographic features.

“In the PowerShot G7 we have created the ultimate prosumer compact digital camera for the discerning hobbyist, the photo enthusiast and for those who require uncompromising photo quality for business and industrial applications,” states Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Faster, more responsive, more efficient and easier to use, thanks to Canon’s proprietary new DIGIC III image processor and a newly enhanced and intuitive user interface, the PowerShot G7 digital camera also offers users a greater level of creative control and flexible shooting options than ever before.”

The Eyes Have It
The “brain” of the new camera is DIGIC III, the newest iteration of Canon’s ultra-efficient (and proprietary) image processor. Making its debut on the PowerShot G7 digital camera (along with Canon’s three newest Digital ELPH models) the DIGIC III chip accounts for the camera’s higher performance levels including faster start up, autofocus and shutter response times, and of course, improved image quality and more efficient power consumption; resulting in extended battery life under typical shooting conditions.

What’s more, thanks to the DIGIC III chip’s more aggressive noise reduction, the PowerShot G7 digital camera is able to shoot at ISO equivalent speed ratings from 80 to as high as 1600. This increased sensitivity at the top-end allows users to select faster shutter speeds, significantly reducing camera shake and subject blur during hand held low-light photography.

With Canon’s new Face Detection AF/AE technology (working in concert with Canon’s 9-point Autofocus system), the camera can detect, lock on and track up to nine human faces in a scene simply by pressing the shutter button halfway. The face detection algorithm automatically prioritizes and selects the optimum subject and not simply the closest face (based on Canon’s Intelligent Scene Analysis/iSAPS technology). It will then optimize the focus and exposure to ensure the best possible results for even easier picture taking moments.

Reflections in an Image Stabilized Glass Eye
True to Canon’s tradition of optical excellence, the PowerShot G7 digital camera is equipped with a fast and sharp f/2.8-4.8 6X optical zoom lens (35-210mm, 35mm equivalent). Canon’s specialized SR coating augments the all glass lens, the first time this lens coating technology has been applied in a compact digital camera. In combination with the lens’ aspherical elements, the SR coating helps reduce flare and ghosting, delivering a cleaner image to the camera’s CCD sensor in the process. The precision lens also features an extreme macro setting that focuses down to one centimeter.

The PowerShot G7 digital camera also features a Lens-Shift type optical image stabilization system that can help defeat the effects of camera shake in low light situations, or while shooting handheld. This optical image stabilization system is based on advancements made in the development of Canon’s EF lenses and video lenses. Unlike electronic or “digital image stabilization systems” that typically degrade image quality, the PowerShot G7 digital camera’s lens shift-type preserves maximum optical performance while providing up to three stops of shake correction in shutter speed equivalent.

The PowerShot G7 digital camera’s new 1.4x/2.3x, onboard, digital tele-converter achieves the digital equivalent of having an actual teleconverter lens attached to the camera. The camera also offers a new Safety Zoom that enables non-stop digital zoom operation at reduced resolution settings up to the maximum magnification possible before the image begins to degrade. Optional optical wide-angle (WC-DC58B), telephoto (TC-DC58C) and close-up (58mm 250D) supplementary lenses are also available for the PowerShot G7 digital camera.**

Admiring the View
The PowerShot G7 digital camera is equipped with a newly enhanced, 2.5- inch color LCD screen with approximately 207,000 pixels, a wide viewing angle and 15 brightness settings making it easier to read the display menus and easier to preview and review subjects and scenes. Adding to the ease of composing a picture in the proper print proportion, the PowerShot G7 is appointed with optional grid lines and a 3:2 aspect ratio print display overlay. Simply put, this convenient composition guide overlays horizontal gray bars at the top and bottom of the LCD screen so that photographers can compose and shoot their images in the proportion best suited to the print size they wish to make (typically 4"x 6").

Making Special Scenes
When it comes to special scenes, the PowerShot G7 camera makes a quantum leap over its predecessor with the addition of 13 new modes for a variety of scenic shooting situations. Notable among the special scene modes (which include portrait, night snapshot, kids & pets, indoor, foliage, snow, beach and fireworks settings etc.) are the new ISO 3200 and Aquarium settings that permit low light, no-flash photography in situations where using a flash would ruin a picture by bouncing back off aquarium glass or other reflective surfaces. For those whose photographic passions take them beyond the water’s edge and beneath its surface, the PowerShot G7 camera also has an underwater special scene mode. In order to actually take the camera underwater, users must safely ensconce it in the optional waterproof case WP-DC11, specifically designed for the PowerShot G7 and rated safe to depths of up to 130 feet.

Improving upon Excellence
A combination of technological advancements, as well as the introduction of the DIGIC III image processor has allowed the PowerShot G7 digital camera to become the fastest G series camera to date, with a startup time approximately twice as fast as its predecessor at 1.4 seconds (LCD monitor on). Other firsts on a G series model include Optical Image Stabilization and the addition of 13 new special scene modes for a variety of shooting situations. The PowerShot G7 model also adds the “My Colors” function. Users have added flexibility with an increased ISO sensitivity, which ranges from 80-1600, or as high as ISO 3200 in the special scene mode. With the enhanced noise reduction, users can confidently shoot in low light scenes.

Other New Features of the PowerShot G7 Digital Camera:

-- USB 2.0 high speed interface
-- SDHC Memory Card/SD Memory Card/MultiMedia Card compatibility
-- Addition of “My Colors” function that allows users to creatively adjust the colors, contrast, sharpness and saturation of images for a completely custom look while shooting or during playback.
-- 25 language menu options
-- 1024 x 768 XGA movie mode (maximum recording time of 31 minutes)
-- 16:9 widescreen photos to fit today’s widescreen TV’s
-- 25 shooting modes including 16 special scene modes, and two user customized shooting modes
-- Approximately 20% lighter than PowerShot G6 model (including battery and memory card)
-- Hot shoe accommodates Canon 220EX, 430EX, 580EX, MR-14EX** and MT-24EX** Speedlite models
-- Sound recorder stores up to two hours of voice memo
-- “My Category” makes it easy to sort images while shooting or during playback based on user preferences
-- Real time histogram while shooting to check exposure levels
-- An Image Inspection tool that, when engaged in the REC. Review mode, permits users to make certain that their images are in focus.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The company is listed as one of Fortune’s Most Admired Companies in America and is rated #35 on the BusinessWeek list of “Top 100 Brands.” Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent holder of technology, ranking second overall in the U.S. in 2005, with global revenues of $31.8 billion. For more information, visit http://www.usa.canon.com.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Specifications and availability are subject to change without notice.

*Pricing subject to change at any time. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.

**Requires Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC58H and Macrolite Adapter 58C. (Close-up Lens 58mm 250D is optional but recommended.).

Published: Saturday, September 30, 2006

Reader Comments

1. I love the looks of the little bugger, but Canon's decision to drop the swivel LCD really kills this one for me.

   Vance at 12:45pm on Thursday, September 14, 2006

2. And don't forget about their (IMHO 'selfish') decision to drop RAW.

   GARY POGODA at 01:58pm on Thursday, September 14, 2006

3. "selfish" in the sense that they're giving their share holders the biggest return on their investment.
   
   The margins on these cameras are so thin, Canon is doing everything it can to get people to buy 350D and 400D's. I can't fault them for this.
   
   I do think, however, that they have mis-judged the market. Margins aside, I think there is a market for a G7 with RAW in DSLR users that want something to carry that gives them the control that RAW affords.
   
   For $200 less you can get an A640 with the same sensor and a rotating LCD. Sure it's got Digic II instead of III and no IS, but it's smaller lighter and (IMHO) a better value overall.

   phule at 04:07pm on Thursday, September 14, 2006

4. That was a typo. I meant to say "shellfish".
   
   But I do agree with your reasoning that they are looking out for their
   350D and 400D markets.

   GARY POGODA at 06:20pm on Thursday, September 14, 2006

5. The lack of a swiveling LCD monitor makes this new G7 unacceptable for me. If you have ever used a camera with a swiveling LCD monitor, you will never want to be without it. I bought one of the last G6s from Norman Camera. I am please with it, but yet, I still like my old black G2 from a few years ago. I also bought an S3 IS and am generally pleased with it.

   Phil Salisbury at 08:53pm on Thursday, September 14, 2006

6. Sadly, this camera will probably take great pictures but it was built to a price point not a feature set. This is what happens when marketers and accountants design cameras.

   Jason at 09:51pm on Thursday, September 14, 2006

7. Such a pity that they combine this gorgeous design with such restricted functionality.
   Stupid me, I never purchased a model of the previous two generations because of their hideous looks.

   luc at 04:59am on Friday, September 15, 2006

8. I have a swiveling LCD monitor on my 5MP and I USE it.
   The lack of a swiveling LCD monitor makes this new G7 unacceptable for me.
   No G7 upgrade for me.

   Daniel Major at 09:20am on Friday, September 15, 2006

9. In spite of the different SDK, they've put out something that can replace the Pro 1s that I'm using in an industrial application. I could use about 100 of these cameras right now.
   
   I just hope they don't break down like the Pro 1s do - and that they focus better.

   charles at 01:24pm on Friday, September 15, 2006

10. Everyone like this camera, it is what is missing that is pissing potential buyers off. Swivel Screen OF COURSE, Wider Lens OF COURSE and please can we continue to use the stack of Compact Flash Cards that I use in my Canon SLRs....
    Fingers crossed that a Pro2 will be announced.

    sguenther at 04:50pm on Friday, September 15, 2006

11. This is NOT a G7.
    
    It's missing too many features to lay claim to the title of successor to the G6.
    
    Small lense.
    No swivel LCD.
    No remote.
    
    Like someone said above, you're better off with a top of the line SD series or $100 or more less.
    
    Ugh, I hope this thing dies before it can get out of the starting gate. I certainly wouldn't buy one.

    Scott Marlowe at 05:24am on Saturday, September 16, 2006

12. I have the Powershot S1 IS. I use it for the movie mode. Canon has the cleanest movies compared to all others. When you zoom in, the quality is better than MP4 and Quicktime JPEG, those are fuzzy and blocky in comparisson. I want the XGA movie mode at 30fps. I'm holding out for a PowerShot S4 hoping it's a G7 with swivel lens, 10MP, and XGA 1024x768 at 30fps. I don't think I'll get my 30fps yet! but I'm hoping!!. Great for places you can't bring "Video Cameras" like sporting events. I like that it will do 4GB movies now, the 1GB limit was way too short. I'm hoping someone can do a hack firmware upgrade to get more than 15fps, like at least 18fps or 24fps.

    XGA_MOVIE_GUY at 11:34am on Saturday, September 16, 2006

13. Movie_Guy, and another great thing is that when they discover that you are taking video, and take the camera fom you, you won't be out much!

    nick in japan at 12:24pm on Saturday, September 16, 2006

14. as "EX" canon buyer i have to say...
    canon is getting greedy....people bought the canon G6 for a reason ...features like ..
    
    * swivel LCD
    * remote control
    * RAW
    this is by no chance worthy of the "G" series.
    
    why spend the money and buy this amature camera when you can get a feature filled camera like the panasonic DMCFZ50???
    Hope sony learns from this ....and olympus...use thE DMCFZ50 ......its got the perfect features ....just the picture quality is not good at the high iso.

    Glen gomes at 11:15pm on Wednesday, September 20, 2006

15. How do people compare the G7 to the new canon a710? Many of the same features with the old DigiII, etc but $200 less. Its' smaller and lighter with 7mp.

    John H. at 12:56am on Friday, September 22, 2006

16. you guys are really negative ... SMILE!!! :D:D:D:D
    
    1. the G7 has 10 MP (you wont find that on the 30D or the the Rebel XT or countless other D-SLR's)
    
    2. the G7 is COMPACT!!! it is EXTREMELY rare to find a compact camera with 6x opt. zoom and 10 MP!!!
    
    3. If your cameras are working for you, than good for you guys!!! Don't buy the G7, you save cash, no new things to learn and you've got your trusty ol' whatever. I think Canon has done a fantastic job ... good for them for making a compact SLR that is accessable to a whole lot more people($$$)!!!(BASICALLY an SLR, aside from the fact you can't buy more lenses)
    Canon definately has coin and respect.

    mackenzie h. at 02:10am on Saturday, September 23, 2006

17. mackenzie, fyi, it's not an SLR. For $279.95 you can get the A630 from Amazon, and it's an 8MP camera. It's a LOT of camera for the money.
    
    The A640 is its 10MP bigger brother, and it's only going for $355. It's got a massive fold out screen.
    
    The only thing the G7 has over that camera that I consider even remotely useful are the hot shoe for the flash. the slight increase in ISO speed and Digic III versus II are really not worth the $250 or so it costs over it. Hell, if the A640 had been available for that price a year ago, I probably would not have bought my G6..
    
    I'm not saying the G7 is a crap camera, just that is seems more like an Axxx series camera with a hot shoe.

    Scott Marlowe at 02:30am on Saturday, September 23, 2006

18. Same here - The lack of a swiveling LCD monitor makes this new G7 unacceptable for me. I used to have G1 and G3 now G5. I am not interested in this handicapped model! If the swiveling monitor was I would buy the camera right away. K

    kornik at 02:24pm on Saturday, September 23, 2006

19. I must admit, when I had my G3, the flip-out and twist LCD was useful,
    but I would have traded it in a heartbeat for a 6x image-stabilized lens,
    a more compact body, and a built-in lens cap (especially for the built-in
    lens cap ).

    GARY POGODA at 03:59pm on Saturday, September 23, 2006

20. I agree guys - this upgrade should have included a (larger) fold out LCD screen, not just suppress it all together. As a Pro I would even like to see this feature on some of the $3000 plus cameras out there, hell, you've paid for it! Guess we'll have to wait even longer now, until they wake up to their market and replace it in the G8. I'm keeping my G5 for now but I would have loved to have all the improvements on the G7 (but no RAW!?). I own other cameras so why should I sacrifice the only one whose single most interesting feature is a fold in, fold out, fold around screen which is even viewable by the people (and kids) you're taking pictures of... not to mention discrete shots and hands over head ! Come to think of it, does anybody know if there is a lobby group one can join to complain to Canon? Something like the Lobby Canon Dumbhead Decisions group?

    Mathvida at 05:40pm on Saturday, September 23, 2006

21. Mathvida, I think the only way to really make out point is to not buy the G7, and to tell our friends looking at it to look at the A630/A640 series, which other than image stabilization and the flash mount, are easily a match for the G7.
    
    Sadly, poor sales of the G7 may lead the Canon execs to believe that the G series has reached the end of its useful life and stop production.

    Scott Marlowe at 07:38pm on Saturday, September 23, 2006

22. Don't forget 6x zoom.
    
    The advantages of the G7 over the A640 are:
    (1) image stabilization
    (2) 6x zoom
    (3) hot-shoe
    (4) DIGIC III
    
    As disappointed as we are for lack of a flip-out LCD and RAW, the G7
    is still an excellent camera.

    GARY POGODA at 10:15pm on Saturday, September 23, 2006

23. can someone please help with the following?
    when taking movie with G7 (ie movie record mode is activated) - am i able to:
    
    a) re-focus?
    
    b) zoom-in and out?
    
    c) in 640x480x30fps mode to record movie continuously till card is full (assuming 4GB SD Card) - and not limited to 30-sec or 3-min per clip as in G6 model (i think)?
    
    d) is this true that with 4G card, i can only record 30 mins of movie at 640x480?
    
    e) does the lens retract to flat with the camera body?

    viva at 01:45am on Sunday, September 24, 2006

24. Viva, I can answer e) for you. The lens fully retracts into the camera
    body, and has a built-in lens cap. The only thing left protruding out of
    the body (about 1/4 inch) is the silver ring used for attaching the lens
    adapter.
    
    Hope that helps.

    GARY POGODA at 02:01pm on Sunday, September 24, 2006

25. thanks Gary - would you know where i can download the manual for the camera?
    
    i'm pretty sure i will be fine for the jpeg part of it, i'm not sure about the movie part, seems all digital camera that i tried (including most recently the Panasonic LX2) does not allow me to: refocus and re-zoom (optically) during movie recording.
    
    would you have any comments on this movie part?
    /v

    viva at 09:32pm on Sunday, September 24, 2006

26. The G7 User's Manual will be available for download from the Canon
    website, but not until October.
    
    Most cameras will not let you optically zoom while shooting in movie
    mode due to noise, but I've read that the Samsung NV3 has an AGC
    to minimize zoom noise in movie mode. Don't know about refocusing.

    GARY POGODA at 03:40am on Monday, September 25, 2006

27. Die anybody see the lenscap? Is there one? I fear something really ugly, as you can't see a closed camera front web-wide.
    
    I will happly change the RAW for IS.
    I won't miss the remote much.
    I like the formfactor
    
    But it seems a standard Canon procedure to cripple its cameras to sell more expensive ones. Hopefully they won't be allowed to do that forever.

    swifty at 04:20pm on Monday, September 25, 2006

28. Swifty, are you aware that the G7 lens is fully retractable into the body
    and does not have an external lens cap, only a built-in lens cover?

    GARY POGODA at 05:08pm on Monday, September 25, 2006

29. nobody ever mentioned the flash. i have a g5 and i love it just wish the flash would be a
    pop up one.

    gaston at 03:34am on Tuesday, September 26, 2006

30. Gary... Are you sure the lens fully retracts? That would be nice, but I have not been able to find any photos or description regarding that.
    
    Is the G7 a pocketable camera?

    TS at 03:59pm on Tuesday, September 26, 2006

31. TS, I have not been able to find any photos of the G7's retracted lens,
    but I did find a reliable mention of its built-in lens cap.
    
    http://tinyurl.com/p6asa
    
    You can also look at Canon's list of what's in the G7 box to see that a
    lens cap is NOT included.
    
    http://tinyurl.com/lwzdr
    
    As for the G7 being a pocketable camera, I would say, "Prit near!"

    GARY POGODA at 04:16pm on Tuesday, September 26, 2006

32. I have the g2, the G7 is a disappointment.
    No raw
    no remote
    no swivel
    Canon is doing a Fuji by leaving out features. The s9500 lwft out remote from the S20 pro. The Fuji s9600 has most of the features Canon has and those left out. The main things missing are dedicated flash and the remote which has been left out

    hugh at 07:35pm on Tuesday, September 26, 2006

33. I *can't* believe they left out the remote..
    
    how ugly of them.
    
    no RAW.. what and I'm supposed to pay 500 dollars for that.. whatever.

    mo at 12:15pm on Wednesday, September 27, 2006

34. A couple of points / questions...
    
    1: Is the image stabilization the kind that holds the CCD stable while the camera moves, or the kind that ups the ISO and tries to compensate with software?
    
    2: Why get rid of features that only require software, like RAW? It's not like the incremental cost on each camera goes up with RAW format. And with the size of memory going up while the price goes down, the use of RAW becomes more economical.
    
    3: While Canon's busy consumerizing the G series, why not increase the length of movies you can shoot?
    
    The G6 had flaws, and I would have been happy to see a G7 that basically fixed those flaws but still had all the features of the G6.

    Scott Marlowe at 02:34pm on Wednesday, September 27, 2006

35. I have the G3 and would like to replace it with a more compact and responsive camera. When the G7 was announced I thought “great!” But I too am disappointed that Canon left out the key features of the G series. No doubt the G7 will be a good camera, but it wont be as good as it could have been. No raw, no remote, no swivel LCD, slower lens. Other cameras are closer now in terms of specifications and value for money. Waiting for reviews on the G7 and cameras like the Samsung NV7 and Canon’s own a710 is. The price will also be important and I see the G7 advertised (though not available yet) for £320.00, this may well come down and make it more attractive to buy. Still a lot of money though for a camera that may well only be marginally better that the current crop of point and shoots, and without doubt, no replacement for the previous G series cameras. Even if I did buy the G7 the G3 would have to stay and that says it all really!

    John Doherty at 04:11pm on Wednesday, September 27, 2006

36. Scott, the G7's image stabilization is neither of the two types you have
    mentioned; rather, it adjusts a lens element to compensate for camera
    movement.
    
    John, Canon was hoping that the '6X' image stabilized, fully-retractable
    zoom lens of the G7 would compensate for its feature omissions.

    GARY POGODA at 04:50pm on Wednesday, September 27, 2006

37. Really sharp looking camera; I may buy one for my next trip.
    
    Hunter Cashdollar

    Hunter H. Cashdollar at 08:27pm on Wednesday, September 27, 2006

38. As RAW format has gained in popularity over the years, Canon has quietly removed RAW capability from all their non-DSLR cameras.
    
    Canon is crippling their low-end in hopes you buy their high-end equipment.
    
    Vote with your pocketbook. Don't buy Canon!

    TS at 01:41am on Thursday, September 28, 2006

39. A telling trend...
    
    Normally, with the new model due out, the older model slowly drops in price on the used market. A month ago, the G6 was going for about $500 on amazon used.
    
    Right now, the cheapest one used is $610. Similar thing is happening on Ebay. when the old model, used, is selling for $11 more than the new model is scheduled to sell for, that should tell you something.
    
    Honestly, I could live with the slightly smaller lense, especially since it means not dealing with the overly loose G6 lense cap that requires judicious use of gaffers tape to make tight, and less ergonomic but more pocket friendly grip. Even the switch to the slightly more expensive SD card format could be forgiveable. And in exchange for the 6x IS zoom, all would have been fair.
    
    But getting rid of the swivel LCD, which is one of my favorite features on so many Canon cameras, as well as deleting RAW mode for no reason other than to try and force me into a camera I don't want to buy (it's "free" for canon to include raw mode, so it can only be a marketing ploy to leave it out). That's the last straw. Without the swivel LCD and with RAW mode removed, this camera, to me, is only a small step up from the A5xx and A7xx series camera. And with the A6xx series having a swivel LCD display and almost unlimited video recording, at about half the price, I just can't imagine spending $600 or so on a G7. There are many cameras that outperform it for that much money.
    
    Gary, do you know how well the lens adjusting image stabilization works compared to the CCD stabilization? Any ideas on long term reliability as well? Me personally, I just take three or four shots with a steady hand and do pretty well, but as I get older... hahahaha

    Scott Marlowe at 03:05am on Thursday, September 28, 2006

40. Oh my god! I just realized this thing is missing the dual right finger wheel adjustment style the G6 has, where the zoom and manual adjustment of shutter / aperature / focus is under another wheel just above it.
    
    Is that under the menuing system now or what? Looks kinda klunky the more I look at it. Can't be sure without using it, but the G6's right index finger secondary wheel is sheer genius.

    Scott Marlowe at 03:12am on Thursday, September 28, 2006

41. My g6 was stollen from my house. I have insurance but sadly I cant even replace it now. The first thing that I noticed was the missing swivel and yeah the index finger wheel was hot. Its a real shame but I think Ill be looking else where

    Brani Boy at 08:00am on Thursday, September 28, 2006

42. Scott, both forms of IS work very well. The CCD IS is an advantage
    with DSLRs because of the costs savings compared to having to use
    IS lenses. Lens IS is generally said to have slightly better stabilizing
    capability than CCD.
    
    Brani, if you're looking for a high-zoom IS compact with full-manual
    controls and excellent image quality (assuming the G7 actually does
    have excellent image quality), your choices are VERY limited.

    GARY POGODA at 08:48am on Thursday, September 28, 2006

43. We now have some product photos live from Photokina 2006...

    Mark Goldstein at 02:40pm on Saturday, September 30, 2006

44. I agree with many of you here--the lack of a swivel screen will prevent me from buying this camera.

    John Paulson at 04:42pm on Saturday, September 30, 2006

45. Half of my interest in using digital cameras
    is being able to shoot from any angle *thanks
    to a swiveling screen*. I will never buy a camera withour it.
    
    By the way, I would never buy a camera
    to change lenses *and expose the sensor* neither!
    
    Currently I own an A610 and an S3 IS and I like them.

    Rick Trelles at 10:03pm on Saturday, September 30, 2006

46. I was waiting to get a compact backup to my 20D, however, No RAW - No Go.. :( Sucks, but will do with a non-Canon compact with raw

    Vlad Didenko at 03:57am on Sunday, October 01, 2006

47. Thanks, Mark (#43). That answers the question about a fully-retracting lens.

    GARY POGODA at 04:14am on Sunday, October 01, 2006

48. If only!
    
    The G7 had potential, but key features like RAW were inexplicably left off. Bad move Canon. You won't be getting any of my money.

    kirk at 03:14am on Monday, October 02, 2006

49. I like the looks of the new G7. I am going to replace my SD500 with this camera. I like the extras that are available for it. 10MB camera that will take an external flash, that you can almost put in your pocket! Looks hot to me! (-8

    Stephen at 10:48am on Tuesday, October 03, 2006

50. I love my old G1 but would consider buying a higher resolution. However how do I use my camera? I often use a powerful flash (speedlite 580EX and most of my pictures are shot from 'impossible' angles overhead or from half a meter outside a boat; hence the rotating LCD is a must. An even more powerful zoom is available in the powershot S series that has kept the rotating LCD, but they lack the hot shoe. It seems I can no longer (later than G6 that is) combine the creative angles and the flash; pity.

    Flemming Gøttsche at 07:43pm on Tuesday, October 03, 2006

51. I went straight to the top Re: RAW issue. See response below:
    ---------------------------------------
    Dear Mr. Blinco:
    
    On behalf of Mr. Hashimoto, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts about the PowerShot G7 digital camera. Here are the answers to your questions:
    
    >> Is there any possibility that this feature [RAW image capture] will being added in the future via a firmware update, etc.? Or is it[s absence] due to some technical limitation?<<
    
    There are no plans to add RAW image capture to the PowerShot G7 camera. According to our R&D Center, the image data characteristics of the CCD sensor used in the PowerShot G7 are quite different than those of the CMOS sensors used in our EOS digital SLRs. This is partially due to differences in pixel pitch (much smaller for PowerShot versus EOS), but it is also due to various other technical limitations of small-format CCD sensors. The net result is that even if the G7 offered RAW image capture or uncompressed TIFF recording, there would be no discernible improvement in image quality compared to that which the camera already achieves in its Superfine JPEG mode.
    
    Additionally, the PowerShot G7 offers a wealth of image control features for photographers who wish to fine-tune crucial aspects of photographic expression, including adjustable resolution and compression settings, a wide range of shutter speed and aperture settings, custom and preset white balance settings, selectable color space, adjustable sharpness, contrast and saturation settings, etc. Of course, the G7 also offers many other advanced features including optical image stabilization, a full range of exposure modes, compatibility with EOS system Speedlites, a live histogram, optional superimposed grid lines, and much more.
    
    Canon is confident that the PowerShot G7's combination of high-quality Canon optics and DIGIC III image processing together with the highest resolution in its class produces exceptional image quality when properly used. We believe that independent product testing will support this contention when the G7 starts shipping to dealers later this month. Please let us know if you have any further questions.
    
    Best Regards,
    
    Chuck Westfall
    Director/Media & Customer Relationship
    Camera Marketing Group/Canon U.S.A., Inc.
    TEL: +1-516-328-4828
    FAX: +1-516-328-4809
    E-Mail:

    David Blinco at 02:11pm on Wednesday, October 04, 2006

52. Well Dave, what do you think of the response from Mr. Westfall?

    kirk at 02:36pm on Wednesday, October 04, 2006

53. I'm not Dave ; however, even if you buy the argument that there
    would be no 'advantage' to RAW over JPEG in terms of image quality,
    that does not take away from RAW's post-processing flexibility and it
    does not answer the question as to why RAW was not included in the
    G7 when all previous G models had it.

    GARY POGODA at 03:12pm on Wednesday, October 04, 2006

54. Gary, you are absolutely right. And, with JPEG you are able to take full advantage of having a nice lens. For quality, JPEG sucks!
    
    RAW used to be available with the Powershot Pro 1, S70, and G6. So Canon already had the know-how and capability using small CCD sensors.
    
    I already have a Canon DSLR. I want a small, carry-everywhere camera that has RAW. Doesn't Canon get it?

    kirk at 06:31pm on Wednesday, October 04, 2006

55. Should have read... with JPEG you are NOT able to take full advantage of having a nice lens.

    kirk at 06:34pm on Wednesday, October 04, 2006

56. #53, More proof we need a "Gary Pogoda Appreciation Day" . Maybe, even at the national level!
    "The spin stops here" has never had so much meaning!

    nick in japan at 09:51pm on Wednesday, October 04, 2006

57. A jpeg without raw?
    
    It is like a print with no negative! You really don't have an image to work with.

    Phil Cannon at 04:09am on Sunday, October 08, 2006

58. hear hear! they can keep it!

    Adrian at 04:32pm on Tuesday, October 10, 2006

59. Guys, I’m an amateur who wants the best point and shoot (most total features) pocket camera. Have reviewed the entire market, with that in mind, and nothing compares with the G7. It’s the latest greatest. I’ve only rarely done an overhead shoot and find the steadiness is much better using an optical view finder (I’m that old guy) which thankfully this camera has, I only ever use the LCD for review. I think I’m part of the silent majority on that, I have my order in and can’t wait to get it, wish me luck, I’ll let you know if I’m disappointed. Thanks for your forum it’s great to hear all the viewpoints; I really admire your knowledge. Tom

    Tom at 07:32am on Friday, October 13, 2006

60. Good luck Tom! I think you will be real happy with the G7! I like alot of the features, as do you.
    If you are an old Canon user, you may have some nice flashes that are not the EX series, they may work in a manual mode setting. Canon had made some nice, and, expensive flashes that are not dedicated to the newer Canons, thus , we are suffering there, but, they will work with restrictions, at least with my DSLRs, maybe this beauty too.

    nick in japan at 08:16am on Friday, October 13, 2006

61. I agree with all of the discussions above. It really is missing the key features which make it a G camera. Raw and flipouts are the defining qualities of the G series. The price point for the feature set doesn't make sense. It's also missing that 2nd index wheel (very convenient, G7 maybe doing it thru the menu button) and the F2 fast lens. The F2 isn't just for lower shutter speeds but makes beautiful portraitures with nicely blurred backgrounds. The image stabilization at F2.8 allows for lower shutter speeds but doesn't have the same extent of background blur as F2. I do more portraitures of people (travel and vacation pics) than I do of nature so the F2 to F3 is more useful to me than the F2.8 to F4.8 on the G7. But I haven't compared so the visible difference may not be that much, I don't know. But I know I can take some real nice portraits by setting to max aperture on my G5 and it looks good with background blur. Anyone have any thoughts on this? For those of you doing sports or nature photography the IS and the 6x zoom will be more useful to you. The high ISO capability can really come in handy too on the G7. I always wished my G5 could go to 1600 ISO. When I shoot in Raw on my G5 at ISO 400 it cleans up nicely in Rawshooters or Photoshop luminence noise reduction. So having ISO 1600 with Raw would be awesome. Just a side note, I seem to find noise reduction of Raw files seem to clean up better than using Photoshop noise reduction on Jpg. Is this true or is my mind playing tricks on me? Maybe there's no difference. Anyone?

    christopher at 02:56pm on Saturday, October 14, 2006

62. Good point, Christopher, about the G5's 'narrower' depth of field. One
    way to see just how much of a difference this makes would be to take
    two identical shots with your G5, one at F2.0 and one at F2.8.
    
    As for RAW cleaning up better than JPEG, this makes sense due to the
    12-bit data of RAW versus the 8-bit data of JPEG.

    GARY POGODA at 04:31pm on Saturday, October 14, 2006

63. Good idea Gary. I should test it out.
    
    When I shoot portraitures I like to set to aperture priorty and set to max aperture at telescopic end in raw mode. This does even better portraits than the scene mode portraiture dial which doesn't seem to squeeze every drop out of the aperture. I like to use every drop of aperture to max the background blur to get good pop effect. And because I shoot travel pics, a lot of times pics are in low light like sunsets or indoors like in opera houses or museums and often I need to tweek it just a little bit to bring out the face or the background and it does a great job in raw mode (exposure and shadow adjustment). And when you shoot in high ISO the raw mode is where it can really shine. That being said for most people who shoot in bright light outdoors, you probably don't need to shoot in raw so won't miss it too much in the G7. And the 10mp with 6xIS may more than compensate so I guess it really depends on what you're using it for.
    
    I won't be upgrading since I don't need the 6x IS and 10mp and have never blown my pics bigger than a 5x7. (For me it's way too expensive to print pics bigger than 5x7) So I guess whether to upgrade or not depends on how you use your camera and what you use it for. For those of you doing action and nature photography and even wedding pics that extra pixel power and 6xIS may be worth it.

    christopher at 06:18pm on Saturday, October 14, 2006

64. It sounds to me like you should be upgrading to the G6.
    
    I would personally upgrade to the G7 just for the built-in lens cover.

    GARY POGODA at 07:24pm on Saturday, October 14, 2006

65. Yeah I agree, that lens cover is a pain. I can never trust throwing the camera in my pack for fear the lens cover will fall off and something could scratch the lens. But I do like the big F2 lens. I guess the tradeoff with the lens cap was they had to use smaller lens elements hence the F2.8
    
    Everythings always a tradeoff. I wish they would put all the best features and build a nonslr super camera.

    christopher at 09:02pm on Saturday, October 14, 2006

66. Speaking of tradeoffs, when doing portraits I would be willing to bet
    that the DOF of the G7 at wide open F2.8 and full 210mm zoom is at
    least as narrow as your G5 at wide open F2.0 and full 140mm zoom,
    for the exact same crop (i.e., standing back further with the G7).

    GARY POGODA at 03:14am on Sunday, October 15, 2006

67. It could be. But even on the G5 at full tele I'm already pretty far back and often wait for all the pedestrians to clear the path before snapping the shot. Any further back, people might not even see that I'm taking a pic. I took a look at some of the pics at different apertures to see the depth of blur and it is noticeable though the difference is not nearly as great as I thought btwn F3 and F4 at G5's full tele 140mm. Because of that sensor multiplication factor I need every drop of aperture and still will in no way come close to a good SLR with a good F1.4 or even F2.0 prime lens. Always a tradeoff. AS for comparing the G5 at 140mm F3 (you can't get F2 fully tele extended) to G7 at 210mm F4.8 (you can't get F2.8 fully tele extended) I really can't tell which would get stronger background blur. The difference btwn F2 and F2.8 may not be much but would be more pronounced btwn F3 and F4.8 but then again that jump from 140mm to 210mm may more than compensate. I really don't know. But I've seen the pics of smaller digicams at 3x tele (about 120mm) shot at near F5 and nearly everything is tack sharp (like a huge bridge or building as the backdrop hundreds of meters behind). I really don't know. Has anyone ever tested this? I wish my G5 could do F2 at max tele extended, but there really isn't any other fixed lens camera that comes close this fast lens so I don't complain since I don't want to lug an SLR. (Though SLRs are much smaller these days and with a good F1.4 prime lens my portraits would be truly stunning!)
    
    That's a good thought Gary. Has anyone tested this or have some experience about this?

    christopher at 05:16am on Sunday, October 15, 2006

68. I would also bet a G7 at F2.8 210mm would have more background blur than a G5 at F2.0 140mmm but since this isn't possible I'm not so sure about a G7 at F4.8 210mm vs a G5 at F3.0 140mm. The problem with many of these ps cameras is they start to get diffraction limited at F5.0 (I mean they only go up to F8.) I first discovered this phenomenon when dp review was reviewing the Sony V3 and similarly in dcresource.
    
    http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/sony/dsc_v3-review/index.shtml
    
    I looked at the picture quality degradation due to diffraction by looking at pics of the same shot ranging from F2 to F8 and it is noticeable. Another reason I always like max aperture. But then again I'm starting to get picky. For most users who only print 4x6 I doubt you can see any difference even at F8. lol.

    christopher at 05:50am on Sunday, October 15, 2006

69. You're right, the G7 would be at F4.8 for full zoom versus F3.0 for the
    G5, so I would likely lose the bet. My mind must have been in a 'circle
    of confusion' when I made it.
    
    There do not seem to be many 'non-SLR' options for a fast lens and a
    1/1.8" (or larger) image sensor. The Sony F828 bridge camera comes
    to mind, but nothing around the size of the G5, other than the G6.

    GARY POGODA at 06:54am on Sunday, October 15, 2006

70. Gary, thank you for having this excellent discussion with me about the merits of the G7.
    
    I was also reading the discussions at dpreview and they were talking about the G7 samples being blurred on the girl's hair.
    
    http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1010&message=20142819
    
    I looked at the samples...
    http://web.canon.jp/Imaging/psg7/sample/sam-1-e.html
    
    ... and must honestly say, The G7 pics even without raw look awesome!!! I really don't know what the reviewers are talking about complaining about noise. That 10mp sensor seems to really deliver. Detailed and contrasty and the colours look nicely saturated. And it will be 41% horizontally larger than my current G5! That's almost an entire screen on my 19" flat panel!
    
    For people doing big blowups it may be well worth it!... I'm tempted.

    christopher at 08:13am on Sunday, October 15, 2006

71. You can go crazy trying to follow that thread. From what I can gather,
    the G7 suffers a bit in image quality compared to the G6, the G7 CCD
    is not a good as the G6's CCD, so RAW processing would not help that
    much in terms of IQ, the bokeh of the G7 will still be pretty good, and
    except for the G7's lack of the G6's flip-out and twist LCD, it has better
    ergonomics due to its more compact size and fully retracting lens. Not
    too much said about the G7's '6x' zoom and IS advantages. A lot said
    about the G7's heavier-handed noise reduction compared to the G6.
    
    I looked at the portrait sample, and it did look a bit like the girl had too
    much hair gel in some sections of her hair.

    GARY POGODA at 11:27am on Sunday, October 15, 2006

72. Gary... Wow, I must say you people are truly connoisseurs of digital imaging. At 100% view the girl looks awesome to me and never noticed the blur on the hair. I'm not sure if other 10mp, including DSLRs, would be able to produce better detail on the hair. I mean the difference we're talking about here are but microscopically fractional? right? I wouldn't have noticed blur on the hair if somebody didn't point it out. I also noticed that in jpg, there doesn't seem to be much noise at all and no noticeable sharpening halos. This is good so maybe RAW isn't so necessary.
    
    As for the ergonomics, the smaller fuller retracting lens is nice. But it just looks a little awkward to hold without a more pronounced grip. Also I really have grown fond of that 2nd control wheel right next to the shutter trigger button for quick adjustments to aperture, speed, and focus. The G series engineers put a lot of thought into this design and it feels so natural and convenient. I don't know but assume for the G7, adjustments to aperture and speed and focus will now be done through that menu button. It's a little awkward but I suppose one could get used to it. I don't find that manual ISO button to be all that useful.
    
    To be honest reading through so many comments on the G7 (I was seriously and am still seriously considering upgrading my G5) I don't believe it was some ingenious marketing ploy to force people to buy DSLRs. Rather I think it was a cost consideration to get rid of the swivelling display, the big lens, and fewer parts mean less cost and better margins. I'm not sure about the RAW though and whether it is simply a firmware issue and that there is no cost to have the RAW option. I think Canon just wants to simplify and standardize to avoid so much confusion amongst their many products. They've got so many different models that its starting to cannabolize each others markets and confuses the heck out of people. It sure confuses me.

    christopher at 03:01pm on Sunday, October 15, 2006

73. Does anyone know when is this camera is going to be in Market in large stores? It's mid October and I'm waiting on it.

    Karl at 03:10pm on Sunday, October 15, 2006

74. I was told it should be widely available in early November.

    christopher at 04:37pm on Sunday, October 15, 2006

75. You know stick shift cars went out of style when automatic transmissions became so good. I think we are turning the corner on digital cameras. Bless you purists you will assure the quality always improves, hold you ground. Personally I don’t want to work so hard. Tom

    Tom at 06:11pm on Sunday, October 15, 2006

76. You're quite right Tom. I used to be one of those stick shift purists and quite frankly ever since I bought my friend's used car with auto, I don't want to go back to stick shift... not even on my next new car purchase. You can't go back... or at least you don't want to.

    christopher at 09:55pm on Sunday, October 15, 2006

77. to me, swivel screen doesn't add any overall value to the camera... i mean, would you want a 1.5 inch swivel display (usually the ones who like taking pics of themselves only use) or 2.5 inch fixed screen for better display? And who has time to edit hundreds of RAW images after a trip back from a vacation when JPG's quality is comparable, if not better in G7. Unless you're taking pics for a magazine layout, in which case this camera is not made for that purpose anyways, you really don't need RAW images. You just need to learn how put it on the right setting before you start taking pics. Its not like you can't edit jpegs as well....
    
    I personally love the new classic design, kinda like a throwback NBA jerseys, and the larger display area. And the slim design is great... try taking G6 to bars and resturants... you look like a freaking tourist with that thing. Now you have G6 quality, if not better, in a slimmer design.

    kohshi at 09:48pm on Monday, October 16, 2006

78. IMHO, the swivel screen is the greatest tool designed for any photographer that takes images other than stand-up, tourist snapshots!
    The small screens are not as easy to use as larger ones, but still are effective screens for composition and histogram confirmation, focus and that live exposure!
    The LX, or any small camera mounted in the hot-shoe can be used too, by viewing the swivel screen of the F-828, or FZ-30, I can approximate the image of the LX and snap them both, without having to get into the prone position.
    Overhead, around corners, low and tricky positions all benefit from a swivel screen... A wonderful tool for any real photographer!
    Maybe the second greatest invention !

    nick in japan at 10:05pm on Monday, October 16, 2006

79. Hey Kohshi... Ya, I can live without the swivel screen, but not without RAW. JPEG sucks big time!
    
    Canon has crippled this camera, and that's the point Nick and others are making. If there is an important feature that you need, Canon has probably removed it.
    
    So, what you are left with is an ordinary, run-of-the-mill camera, that's expensive. Probably good enough for most people, like you, who don't know the difference between JPEG and RAW.

    kirk at 10:25pm on Monday, October 16, 2006

80. Koshi wrote: "swivel screen doesn't add any overall value to the camera... who has time to edit hundreds of RAW images ... put it on the right setting before you start taking pics... love the new classic design ... slim design is great... try taking G6 to bars and restaurants... you look like a freaking tourist with that thing..."
    
    Hey Koshi, maybe any camera will do if it looks... good & slim. I am sure they can make disposable ones look great too. Maybe even with a laptop-size screen in them ... I think your needs are opposite to most of the peoples' that are discussing the G7 here.
    
    I have owned the "G" series cameras from the very beginning which is more than 5 years now I think. I have taken more than 30,000 pictures. I have used the viewfinder only on ONE occasion when I had to take pictures but my battery was running flat. When I took up the G1 I sold my SLRs. There so much absolutely practical aspect to using the swivel screen that I CAN NOT imagine going back to viewfinder-like handling where you camera needs to be in front of your face! (sorry the SLR folks) As an aside, I am buying a Sony video camera - for me… Canon sucks at this moment.

    Kornik at 12:57am on Tuesday, October 17, 2006

81. I think the lack of swivel is a disapointment, I think from looking at the pictures that - the screen is a gone to keep the camera thin. Look at the over dimensions-much more compact then the A - line that have the swivel.
    
    As for the Raw- again to keep the camera small. I recall when apple came out with the 5th gen Ipod, we lost the firewire- Again to keep it thin.
    
    I think looking at the big picture- i will buy this camera- however - ill be getting at Costco just in case its not all i hope it be....

    CRAIGr at 04:07pm on Tuesday, October 17, 2006

82. A flip-out and twist LCD would likely have added some extra thickness
    to the camera as well as some expense. But not RAW, that was purely
    a marketing decision.

    GARY POGODA at 04:34pm on Tuesday, October 17, 2006

83. dear CANON : i must say that you have turned the Canon G-Series from a really serious WORKING PROSUMER CAMERA to that of a FANCY SOCIALITEs TOY when you have introduced the Canon G7 . BIIIG MISTAKE ! CANON should have focused this effort towards IXUS line of cameras and certainly not to the G7 . as a present G6 operator , i was eagerly looking forward to something along the lines of SONYs DSC R1 which now is in the qualified position of being rightfully called the leading PROSUMER CAMERA in the market by virtue of its SERIOUS LOOKS , FEEL , and of course , PERFORMANCE . please understand that the G cameras DO NOT BELONG TO THE CATEGORY of SAMSUNGs NV series nor a RICOH GR glamour point and shooters which you are obviously trying to emulate , rather POORLY . flush this misguided notion down the toilet and come back strongly in the future with the deleted FULLY-ARTICULATED LCD SCREEN W/SUPERIMPOSED GRID PATTERN , SELECTOR DIAL ADJACENT THE SHUTTER BUTTON , RAW ,repeat , RAW IMAGE CAPTURE , AN ANATOMICALLY-CONTOURED GRIP HANDLE WITH ALL THE BASIC CAMERA CONTROL BUTTONS ALONGSIDE ITS VICINITY FOR INSTANTANEOUS SETTING ADJUSTMENTS BY THE SHOOTING HAND , THE EVER- IMPORTANT REMOTE SHUTTER RELEASE CONTROLLER , 35MM SIZED MANUALLY - ZOOMABLE/FOCUSABLE LENS WITH PROVISIONS FOR ATTACHING BOTH WIDE AND TELE LENS EXTENDERS PLUS FILTERS , 35MM FULL-FRAME CMOS IMAGING SENSORS , A MUCH - FASTER SUSTAINED BURST SPEED RATES , A 100% VIEWABLE OPTICAL VIEWFINDER WITH DIOPTRIC ADJUSTMENTS , AND LASTLY BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY , A HIGHLY - RUGGEDIZED AND ENVIRONMENTALLY -INSULATED CAMERA BODY INTERFACED WITH A SUPERB CANON 24-200MM F2.8 ASPHERICAL FLUORITE LENS .we prosumers would like to take our G-series cameras on every conceivable outdoor/indoor activity known to man . a camera that can take on the challenges presented by arctic cold , desert heat , jungle humidity ,urban adventures , and oh yes , even at COCKTAIL PARTIES! CANON , THE BALL IS NOW IN YOUR COURT .

    carl hamilton at 07:49pm on Tuesday, October 17, 2006

84. I was with you right up until the point of a full-frame CMOS sensor w/
    24-200mm manual zoom/focus lens. That is asking a bit too much for
    a compact.

    GARY POGODA at 12:29am on Wednesday, October 18, 2006

85. Carl you said it. You've clearly summarized everything that's missing in the G7 that was in the G6... right up until the 35mm full frame sensor, I couldn't really ask for anything more. But from there on... your demands are a little greedy.

    christopher at 08:24am on Wednesday, October 18, 2006

86. (Posted on behalf of LITO TIOZON)
    
    dear Sir , am delighted to learn that my soured sentiments over the introduction of the G7 is echoed and shared by quite a number of thinking photographers such as yourself , thank you ! with regard to the massive design overhaul proposed by this author to the Canon Corporation , i fully realize that they are of a truly radical nature . this feeling arose in me as i keenly analyze the USUAL LIMITATIONS IMPOSED UPON PROSUMER CAMERA USERS by almost every camera manufacturer . there seems to be a grossly mistaken notion that PHOTOGRAPHERS WHO DO NOT WISH TO UTILIZE DSLRs BUT INSTEAD EMPLOY PROSUMER CAMERAS HAVE NO RIGHT TO BE AFFORDED THE HIGHLY SPECIALIZED FUNCTIONS / FEATURES THAT ARE ONLY IN THE EXCLUSIVE REALM OF PROFESSIONAL - GRADE PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT . IS DEMOCRACY DEAD IN THIS PARTICULAR ARTISTIC FIELD ? please allow me to cite the inherent disadvantages of the much -vaunted DSLR . there's always the INCESSANT INTRUSION OF DUST/MOISTURE INTO THE CAMERA SENSOR CHAMBER EVERYTIME A LENS IS REMOVED , A FACTOR GREATLY AFFECTING THE RESULTANT IMAGE QUALITY . A VULGARLY UNWELCOME NOISE WHENEVER THE SHUTTER BUTTON IS ACTIVATED , A BIG NO-NO WHEN COVERING SENSITIVE SURVEILLANCE PHOTOGRAPHY , CHURCH WEDDING CEREMONIES , FORMAL DINING ENGAGEMENTS , WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY , MAJOR SPORTING EVENTS AND MUSICAL PERFORMANCES WHERE SILENCE IS AT A PREMIUM . THEN THERE IS ALWAYS THAT JARRING VIBRATION EVERYTIME THE MIRROR SWINGS INTO ACTION , ANOTHER ASPECT OF IMAGE SHARPNESS LOSS . FINALLY , WE COME TOWARDS THE SUBJECT OF ENDURING THE UNWANTED BURDEN OF HAVING TO CARRY ALONG A VARIETY OF LENSES TO BE ABLE TO BROADLY COVER THE ENTIRE PHOTOGRAPHIC RANGE , A PROPOSITION WHICH IS ONLY PRACTICAL WHEN A PERSON IS NOT BRINGING ALONG OTHER FORMS OF GEAR . these real world concerns are what steered me away from the dslr and instead welcomed the prosumer camera as a VERY PRACTICAL PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT OF CHOICE . this is also the driving force behind my desire for the camera manufacturers TO ELEVATE THE STATUS AND CAPABILITY OF THE PROSUMER CAMERA TO A LEVEL COMPARABLE TO THAT OF A PRO-SPEC DSLR WITHOUT THE TROUBLESOME CHARACTERISTICS AS MENTIONED PREVIOUSLY . the prosumer camera has a lot of promises in store for it and the only way for its users to progress is UPWARDS .
    WE ONLY COME ROUND ONCE IN THIS LIFE . LET US CHOOSE EXCELLENCE OVER MEDIOCRITY .

    Mark Goldstein at 08:01am on Thursday, October 19, 2006

87. (Posted on behalf of LITO TIOZON)
    
    dear Sir , did I read you right there ? no 35mm FULL-FRAME CMOS SENSORS on your camera spec sheet ? why , that is like saying no to a Porsche 911 OIL/AIR-COOLED TURBO right up your alley ! there is no substitute for excellence , my friend .

    Mark Goldstein at 08:02am on Thursday, October 19, 2006

88. It's like saying no to a Porsche 911 Turbo for a Vespa motor scooter.

    GARY POGODA at 08:49am on Thursday, October 19, 2006

89. Vespas probably perform alot better than a 911 Turbo, reliable too, getting you from point A to B with little expense..
    Excellent choice!
    You guys and your bling, akin to the moronic Japanese and their Lambos, and a national speed limit of 37mph!
    The bigger the bling, the smaller the... naw!

    nick in japan at 09:07am on Thursday, October 19, 2006

90. Bottom line, as much as we would like a compact with a full-frame, it's
    just not feasible. No more than it is to mount a Porsche 3500 CC Turbo
    engine on a Vespa motor scooter designed for a 200 CC engine.

    GARY POGODA at 09:37am on Thursday, October 19, 2006

91. Perfect!

    nick in japan at 10:07am on Thursday, October 19, 2006

92. Mark, It does my heart good to hear a Guy like you, who obviously knows his stuff, be an advocate of moving photography ahead for the common man. From what I read Canon's biggest sin was to introduce it as an addition to the G series. Really Guys if they brought it out as a stand alone High End point and shoot perhaps there would not be all the clamor. My mouth is still watering to get a hold of one. Again I don't want to work that hard. I've learned alot reading this forum. Thanks, Tom

    Tom at 10:48am on Thursday, October 19, 2006

93. quoting Nick of Japan :" Vespa scooters perform a lot better than Porsche 911 turbos " . are you sure you are on this planet? just what time were you born yesterday ? you are probably working as a waitress in Japan as your mind and your wallet could only buy you cheap thrills . your masculinity must also conform to that of a Vespa scooter - PUNY

    CARL HAMILTON at 05:26am on Friday, October 20, 2006

94. Your diaper is showing Carl!

    nick in japan at 05:33am on Friday, October 20, 2006

95. quoting Gary Pogoda : " it is not feasible to equip 35mm full - frame CMOS sensors on prosumer cameras ". where were you when Sony announced it had mounted an APS C- sized CMOS image sensor on its DSC R1 prosumer camera ? you must be scooting around with your Vespa back in the 50s . obviously your thinking is not up to speed with reality. look yourself in the mirror and say , " I DON'T WANT A PORSCHE 911 TURBO NOR A FULL FRAME SENSOR ON MY PROSUMER CAMERA ." you will notice how steadily the length of your nose grows .

    CARL HAMILTON at 05:48am on Friday, October 20, 2006

96. Carl, we have a real nice blog here, full of constructive info, experiances with cameras and related stuff, and a bit of humor now-and-then. What we don't need is a Mel Gibson type that demeans and disrespects people they dont know.
    If you have problems with social skills, I suggest you seek help, you are, obviously, very intellegent, but like another that had, and overcame his/her problem, your distain with folks that waitress for a living, don't make alot of money, or don't especially like Volkswagens, is, unbecoming, to say the least.

    nick in japan at 06:12am on Friday, October 20, 2006

97. (Posted on behalf of Carl Hamilton)
    
    howdydoody Tom ! glad to know where you priorities lie - towards the way to Commonsenselandia . i am certain that you would soon arrive in that place in no time at all because you are willing to open up and broaden your horizon and liberate your mind from the crippling shackles of conventional practice . ONE CANNOT HOPE TO FLY IF HE REFUSES TO LEAVE THE GROUND . sounds like you've got the hots for a really hotrod point and shoot dcam ! trod the path leading to the SONY DSCR1 , you will get to have all the G7s goodies plus a whole lot more , in the form of a class- leading CARL ZEISS 'T' 24-120 f2.8 manually-focusable/zoomable lens . mouth-watering indeed.... CARL HAMILTON

    Mark Goldstein at 08:36am on Friday, October 20, 2006

98. Carl (#95), the R1 is not a compact, and the APS-C is not a full-frame.
    So I repeat ...
    
    Bottom line, as much as we would like a compact with a full-frame, it's
    just not feasible.

    GARY POGODA at 08:39am on Friday, October 20, 2006

99. Gary, Thank you for saying so. Nobody disputes the R1 is a great camera, but it's also a tank. Just got word my G7 shipped yesterday, and yes Carl my mouth is still watering, hopefully the eating compares with the desire. Tom

    Tom at 01:07pm on Friday, October 20, 2006

100. Circuit City has them for online sale however, I prefer to buy products in person. I hope some retail store gets them soon. I'm in NYC :(

     Karl at 02:06pm on Friday, October 20, 2006

101. I have had good experiences with B&H, I recommend you look at them!

     nick in japan at 10:22pm on Friday, October 20, 2006

102. Karl (#101), I'm in NYC too and was told today by the folks at 17th St Photo (btw 5th and 6th) that they should have the G7 in their showroom by Monday.

     Ross Finocchio at 02:05am on Saturday, October 21, 2006

103. It's a very good camera. But not good to be called a G7.
     
     It's like buying a lambo at a lambo price, but with no engine.
     
     In G serie you should get RAW. (your starting to become a pro, you can go SLR
     ez.)

     dud3 at 05:23am on Wednesday, October 25, 2006

104. they could have named it some thing els and it would be fine.
     
     !!!Warning: Bad english inside!!!

     dud3 at 05:30am on Wednesday, October 25, 2006

105. to all G7 users : i can fire my G6 and access the camera's basic controls SINGLEHANDEDLY AND STRAPLESS TOO ! bet you can perform the same feat on your downsized G7s . careful and don't attempt this at home fellas or it might impair your right hands' reflexes , that is , if they are still limber enough to catch the camera before it hits da ground . OUCH !

     CARL HAMILTON at 02:29pm on Wednesday, October 25, 2006

106. here's more: try attempting that feat with the wide angle tele-extenders on plus a Canon Speedlite 580EX mounted along . chances are you are gonna blurt some unprintable expletives towards Canon's way . hahahahahahah .... oh Canon , ergonomics is not a dead science and you are surely heading back to the drawing table . hahahahahaahaha . CARL HAMILTON

     CARL HAMILTON at 02:42pm on Wednesday, October 25, 2006

107. fans of CANON could go and take a visit the CANON CAMERA MUSEUM on the Internet and learn so much about how Canon does its business in designing its cameras , its design rationale , its core values , its complete line of analog and digital cameras , its leading-edge photographic technologies , plus its rise from humble beginnings towards what the company is today . happy reading !

     carl hamilton at 07:10pm on Wednesday, October 25, 2006

108. hello to everyone! i read almost all the comments avaliable here.
     i am looking for a new cammera for about 1 year now but nothing satisfied me. i didnt want an DSLR tooooo big and need alot of money for new lences e.t.c and generally too profesional for me. i just wanted a 10 megapixel full capable cammera. and i think that is exactly what canon is trying to offer. i mean i am an average user , that loves photos and wants good quality. Never used RAW, i didnt even know what it was 3 months ago .
     so to conclude my comment i have to say that i really like the new G7. of course i was also thinking about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50, but its BIG i mean you look stupid in a party with such a cammera (hello the camera men).
     finally about the lcd sreen: ok the flip (or watever is called) screen would be better... but i like the big screen. and moreover the flip screen i think it would be easier to brake and as i read it would have made the cammera larger (wouldnt want that), also its not a feature i would defenetelly want to have, i can live without. i mean look at panasonic DMC-FZ50 they have a really stupid flip screen which flips at the bottom of the camera and not at the side CONFUSING..

     tassosGR at 10:15am on Friday, October 27, 2006

109. oh forgot i am thinking of buying the G7 today. here in greece i found it with 485euro. i think a good price for what it offers.

     tassosGR at 10:19am on Friday, October 27, 2006

110. Tassos , i have got news for you : stop thinking about it and go straight to the camera store and purchase your beloved Canon G7 . i am quite sure that the two of you would nicely compliment each other with your cool and sharp looks in the thick of some really groovy partying ! how is the weather in the azure Aegean ?

     CARL HAMILTON at 10:33am on Friday, October 27, 2006

111. the weather is great today alot of sun! great day to go out and take pictures

     tassosGR at 10:35am on Friday, October 27, 2006

112. You are going to regret not having that "stupid" swivel screen that swivels all over the place, a beloved added feature that puts Panasonic up near the top! (IMHO)

     nick in japan at 11:06am on Friday, October 27, 2006

113. you might be right... i am going to the shop see very closelly both cammeras and decide then!

     tassosGR at 11:07am on Friday, October 27, 2006

114. "Hands-on" evaluation is like test driving a car, always recommended! Good luck, and, keep us informed please!

     nick in japan at 11:21am on Friday, October 27, 2006

115. While you're there, you may want to evaluate the Canon A710 IS, as well.

     GARY POGODA at 12:35pm on Friday, October 27, 2006

116. I’m having a honeymoon with my G7 and enjoying every minute, she’s a real beauty. I’m amazed at the efficiency. I always shoot at the highest pixel & super fine resolution, you never know when you might get that one you want to blow way up or crop big time and with a 2 gig card I can set 480 shoots. FLASH -- Maybe I’m reading it wrong but on the download software instructions with XP which I feel many, if not most use, they say it’s not necessary to use their software and I quote “ If Service Pack 1 or Service Pack 2 is installed – Use Windows Explorer to download RAW images since the Scanners and Camera Wizard cannot download them. It does go on to say you can’t have sound memo attachments on the images. Can any one tell me, is this the Raw many were disappointed in the G7 not being able to do? If so it can with those limitations. I have no desire or want of Raw Images but I know many of you do and wanted to convey this info along. If anyone wants more info on what the software instructions say let me know by way of this forum. Tom

     Tom at 09:47pm on Friday, October 27, 2006

117. Tom, if only it were so.

     GARY POGODA at 10:08pm on Friday, October 27, 2006

118. G7 looks to be by far the best G yet. Best handling and usability by far. Canon are the best at on-the-job shooting performance, and the G7 raises the bar for non-SLR. Best lens range. Stabilisation is a boon that makes a camera 10x more practical. Forget G6 and earlier, forget R1 unless you use a tripod (silly).
     
     Swivelling tiny screen? Normally it's packed face down for protection so it slows down the startup process; not good. It can be useful, but why sacrifice the benefits of a large legible screen much better suited to adjusting camera settings and review of shots for successful results (which is useful 100% of the time) for a swivel advantage on 1%-5% of shots?? Not a good tradeoff: Canon got it right.
     
     RAW is basically for theoretical idealists; tests show no visible differences from JPEG in 240dpi and 300dpi prints. Pros shoot in JPEG for weddings, magazine shoots and National Geo. Actually RAW is not even for idealists because it bogs down shooting so badly; any decent idealist would choose to shoot in JPEG because it lets you keep the mind on the subject not the tool.
     
     Show me actual prints of handheld shots using G5/6 RAW and G7 JPEG that show the superiority of having RAW. (try to ignore the blurred non-IS shot!)
     
     It is no secret that the lighting near dawn and dusk is more photogenic than in the middle of the day, and I have always found myself struggling for camera settings that allow handheld photography in the photogenic light at the ends of the daylight. Ditto for indoors without flash. I suggest the G7 is ideal for such work, with its IS and good performance for a compact above ISO100. Canon seem to have made the improvements that make *visibly* better photos, and sacrificed nothing that affects photos *visibly*.

     Grant at 07:45am on Tuesday, October 31, 2006

119. Grant, I wouldn't argue, but I would point out that there is one definite
     advantage to RAW for which you are not accounting, namely, flexibility
     in post-processing, as compared to JPEG where you are "locked in" by
     your choice of camera settings made at the time of shooting.
     
     Besides, would it have killed Canon to include it?

     GARY POGODA at 11:11am on Tuesday, October 31, 2006

120. Gary, you mentioned the lack of RAW in post #2 and still going in #119. It may be selfish, it may be wrong, but it won't visibly affect your prints.
     
     Come to think of it, how can that be wrong?
     
     You can make your photos more RAW-like by shooting in neutral white balance and post-processing every image. But I won't be.

     Grant at 07:41am on Wednesday, November 01, 2006

121. The reason why JPEG image quality can even compare with RAW is
     because the in-camera processing is applied to a 12-bit RAW image,
     and after all the processing is done, information can be thrown away
     in such a way so as to still be visually pleasing at 8-bits; however; a
     weakness of JPEG is if you have to do further processing on the 8-bit
     image (i.e., you'd be much better off going back to the 12-bit RAW).
     
     So your suggestion to shoot in neutral white balance and post-process
     every image in an attempt to improve JPEG flexibility, actually defeats
     JPEG's main strength for achieving image quality comparable to RAW.
     
     Now if you were using 16-bit TIFF, your idea might work.

     GARY POGODA at 12:47pm on Wednesday, November 01, 2006

122. Can a G7 owner tell me whether the focus assist light is IR or is it visible light?

     Grant at 04:01am on Friday, November 03, 2006

123. its a visible green light. and the cammera os wonderful i got friday and i spend a wonderful weekend with her. the fetures are endless. i can not imagine what more you could need from a camera especially a compact one. just the best of the best out there. (ok exept the raw, which you dont really need) perfect pictures, perfect ligh, perfect colors. if you cant get a good picture with this cammera you wont with any.

     tassosGR at 08:48am on Monday, November 06, 2006

124. wa - hey Tassos , what a way to go ! congratulations to you . now you finally bagged the camera of your dreams . wish that the honeymoon would never end and that you both would live happily ever after despite the ravages of strained right-hand reflexes due to the absence of a proper camera grip handle in support while manipulating basic camera control buttons made during your frenzied gyrations on the disco floor . a thoroughly abused eyesight cause your subject perception had to compensate for the loss of that useful vari-angle lcd panel specially when taking overhead shots of your favorite celebrities when a thick crowd fronting you prevents you from taking that once in a lifetime shot . but what of it , anyway , when Canon endowed the G7 with rock - steady stabilization and lightning fast Digic III imaging engine to instantaneously aid you in your target aquisition . nevertheless , your retro-minimalist dcam really has all the party gal looks that eventually suits your lifestyle to a T ! if all my blabbering sounds Greek to you ( all pun intended ), just chill it ... all that i am saying is that if the Canon G7 works like a million dollar babe to you , then get hitched . after all , marriage is far from perfect .

     CARL HAMILTON at 01:06pm on Monday, November 06, 2006

125. do oyu like being a anoying like that really. first of all you dont know me. second of all, canon has a great product! have you even touched the G7???? have you even taken one picture???? why do you make fun of me? here you can see some of my pics taken with much much worce camera one 2,5 megapixel and a 4 megapixel ( my 2 old cameras) imagine what i will do with G7. http://www.betterphoto.com/gallery/free/gallery.asp?memberID=172479

     tassosGR at 01:25pm on Monday, November 06, 2006

126. by way of mentioning , Tassos , just had my first look of the G7 as it reached the shops here in Hongkong . just as i thought , it wants to be known as a mini Leica/Panasonic D3/DMC-L1 . i am afraid it is nowhere near in that arena . nice try , Canon . i say that your funky Sketchbook as well as your T80 cameras were far more thoughtfully configured than your current offering . i reached for my good ol' G6 and noticed once again that it feels securely held and that all its control buttons/dials FALL EXACTLY into the digits of my shooting hand . congratulations , Canon . there are certain instances in your production lifecycle that you remain true to your mission statement : TO CREATE CAMERAS THAT ARE USEFUL TO HUMANS . it is so unfortunate that this moment is not one of those .

     CARL HAMILTON at 01:36pm on Monday, November 06, 2006

127. it seems there is something personal between you and canon .... hahahahahahaha good luck! but i must say this if you havent used canon G7 or any other product its really strange how you have such a strong oposition towards this product and generally canon. with the budget of 500euro which i spend this is the best camera that money could buy! do you even know the fetures that are included in this machine? anyway i am a hapy hapy user nomatter what you say! and i believe that there will be MANY happy user as me! if you have any complains about canon take it up with them. I actually have canon G7 (which you dont), so i also have an opinion. but you can continue your anti-canon anti-G7 campain.... good luck.

     tassosGR at 01:45pm on Monday, November 06, 2006

128. hi there Tassos ! would like you to know that my felicitations were not tinged with malice of any sort . i am simply happy for your purchase and i share the joy of your recent discovery . like a long lost treasure found , you know the feeling , don't you ? i take it that you are a fun guy that is why i revved my motor up . my apologies to you of course if you were offended by my light jesting and by the way , nice interesting photos you took . shows a lot of promise from an aspiring photographer like yourself .thanks but no for offering the G7 for trials . am happily married to my G6 , unless of course Canon listens and fits future G series with a potent 24MP 35mm full-frame sensor vis-a vis a stabilized 24-200 f2.8 ground - glass aspherical flourite zoom lens, all with a nice hand-filling grip and a 3inch wide flipLCD , of course .i hope that the sun is still up and shining bright in the Aegean . cheers !

     CARL HAMILTON at 02:07pm on Monday, November 06, 2006

129. here is a pictures i got with my canon G7 yesterday from my aquarium. and fro those who have tried to get picture of an aquarium you know how difficult it is to get it right!
     (the picture is taken with the special aquarium mode in the G7 with no editing nothing its right of the camera).
     http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/1684/img0432zq4.jpg
     and here are some more... (in all pics just size has been reduced)
     http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/159/img0247oi2.jpg
     http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/276/img0269ko2.jpg
     http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/6411/img0270al0.jpg
     http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/9937/img0276aw9.jpg

     tassosGR at 02:25pm on Monday, November 06, 2006

130. Hey there, I just picked up a new G7 and was wondering if anyone knows where I could find a tutorial for new users/digital photographers?

     Bruce at 07:29pm on Monday, November 06, 2006

131. Hey carl, is it ask too much if I ask you to think about what you are going to say before post it here? O man... a full frame ccd + 24-120 2,8 inside a canon G7? I was laughting for 2 minutes before I saw you were actually talking seriously. that's so naive... lol only the lens would be like 1kg with that max apperture. Have you seen the R1?? and thats only an APS CCD. Man what you want does exist, and it's the company you love so much who made it, it's name is Canon 5d.

     Chema at 03:25am on Wednesday, November 08, 2006

132. Hi Carl, re post #128 I hope Canon make a G8 exactly like you wished for. The full-frame sensor will dictate that it will be the size and price of the EOS-1DsMkII (160x160x80mm and 1.2kg) with the EF 28-300L lens (92mm dia x 180mm long and 1.7kg). You will probably be the only buyer so the price had better be set for full R&D recovery from one unit sale. I will enjoy reading your justification of how this non-SLR monster that seriously needs a tripod fits the G-series concept better than the G7 does.
     
     Or, buy a G7 and trial it for 6 months then sell whichever G6 or G7 you adjudge is least useful to you. You will find the G7 clumsy at first because by now your fingers are adapted to the G6 ergos. However once your fingers have learned the G7 it will become second nature. The moral of this tale is, Try Before You Cry.

     Grant at 10:08am on Wednesday, November 08, 2006

133. i just bought a g7 in hong kong, users manual is in mandarin, where can i donwload or find an english version?

     jose at 09:41pm on Friday, November 10, 2006

134. hello there Grant and Chema . looks like there's not a shortage of anti- 35mm high resolution CMOS sensors around here . well now , welcome to the club . i may not be a qualified electro-optical engineer but i can only say these : since time immemorial , people were in the habit of laughing contemptously towards the radical ideas of some individuals who dared to dream . the invention of the airplane , the construction of both the Suez and the Panama Canals , the flight to and the subsequent landing/exploration on the moon and back by mankind , and not so recently , the rendering of practical availability of the Personal Computer to the layman which were all then previously considered matters of absolute impossibility . it is probable too that some guy or two might have also been ridiculing a person when he proposed for the introduction of an autofocusing camera before its time . well guess what ? these " dreamers' " ideas took flight and made it into history , sad to say , these naysayers didn't even make it on its pages . i 'd like to think that the only thing that deters you to accept the idea of installing full frame sensors on prosumer cameras is the artificially - inflated cost of manufacturing this component . R&D COSTS , Grant ? CMOS technology is right here and right now . consider Canon's very own words on its Technology website : " CANONs SEMICONDUCTOR PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES PLAYED A MAJOR ROLE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CMOS SENSOR . WE HAVE DEVELOPED A PARTITION EXPOSURE TECHNOLOGY UNDER WHICH EACH 35MM FULL-FRAME CMOS SENSOR IS EXPOSED THREE TIMES , AND EACH OF THE EXPOSURES ARE ULTRAPRECISELY BONDED WITH THE OTHERS . THIS METHOD ALLOWED US TO PRODUCE A LARGE , HIGH-PRECISION CMOS SENSOR AT A RELATIVELY LOW COST . THE FULL-FRAME 35MM HIGH RESOLUTION CMOS SENSOR PERFORMS ON A PAR WITH 35MM FILM AND IS CONTINUING TO EVOLVE AS A KEY DEVICE IN THE DIGITAL CAMERA . " Canon is the inventor and the only current in - house manufacturer of this type of sensor and it is easy to understand at why they would like to financially reap their rewards by exclusively equipping this technological marvel only into their top echelon DSLR or its equally "affordable " EOS 5d stablemate . truth of the matter is that the full-frame sensor per se need not be THAT EXPENSIVE .the raw materials required for its manufacture are as readily available as any modern-day chip assembly , MASS-PRODUCED WITH THE AID OF MACHINES . if perhaps the CMOS sensor was meticulously built by hand , piece by piece like a Swiss chronometer , then that would perhaps justify its premium price , but it ain't ! . Canon would like us consumers to believe so because of its exclusivity and that because they want us to buy their pricey cameras for the immediate return of their investment . Canon ' s competitors should find a way to introduce their own full frame CMOS sensors in order to level the playing field forcing Canon to tag its digital cameras realistically . as per the issue again of the IMPOSSIBILITY of incorporating this technology into prosumer cameras , you might be delighted to know that Canon is actively pursuing nanotechnology , a field of science dealing with miniaturization . that should be enough to make skeptics understand that their imagined problem at hand can be resolved . if anyone has further doubts that Canon could not feasibly mass produce a fully-featured prosumer camera that can trounce the G7 , it already had , in the form of the Canon Powershot Pro 1 . all it needs is major redesign with a full-frame CMOS sensor .

     CARL HAMILTON at 08:29pm on Sunday, November 12, 2006

135. oh Grant . just happened to carefully inspect a G7 recently and lo ! my suspicions were undoubtedly correct . the camera has lousy ergonomics due to the absence of a proper grip . same goes for the fixed - mounted2.5 LCD screen which was rendered useless by its inability to fully articulate . and the much vaunted DIGIC III . not that fast as i expected it would. 10MP image quality ? pound for pound , the G6 can take on the G7 anytime . the Internet's customers and independent reviewers comments as well as my personal usage would be my case. try operating that that quick control dial using one hand minus the strap (one looks genuinely like a tourist with it on a G7 ) that poor soap - bar inspired newfangled contraption would easily fly off your hand unlike the G6s very secure location , thanks to the extra support provided by its robust grip . when all is said and done, Grant , this is all i would advice : GET A GRIP !

     carl hamilton at 08:49pm on Sunday, November 12, 2006

136. Carl, you don't get it man. The idea is great, and if it was faisable if would be done. But when we get to that technology in optics there will be no more CMOS CCD sensors but an other nano-organic-photosensible technology (or what do I know...). Of course I want a full frame compact camera, and wy not a full frame medium format compact camera or better, a full frame large format compact camera of the side of a g7. you will not be alive when a compact 35mm fullframe with megazoom f:2,8 and the side of a G7 see the light. And the problem is not Canon but phisics. You can not JET change the form and side of a glas to collaps it dude. How can you be so naive to think that no one have already think about that perfect camera. And don't you think that camera would exist already for film?? and don't you think... at all?? I'm sure your right about canon's way of doing busines but your ideas just sound stupid when you justify it saying "hey why can't we have a full frame 35mm megazoom 2,8 of a G7 size and the form of a Pro1"

     Chema at 03:57am on Sunday, November 19, 2006

137. I'm trying to decide between the G7 and the S80. Which one is better?
     
     http://www.vsxl.com/cameras/Canon_PowerShot_G7_vs_Canon_PowerShot_S80.html

     Goerge at 09:29am on Sunday, November 19, 2006

138. PART I:
     
     Hey guys,
     
     Count me as naive, but I love my new G7. I got my G7 two days before I left for some NGO (not-for-profit) work to tsunami affected villages in India. Here's what I loved and did not love so much about the camera.
     
     Loved:
     
     * Small, and light (I am use to SLR cameras). The G7 made it easier to blend in so that my subjects typically went about their business while I was photographing. Eventually they caught on, but the initial candid shots were difficult with the EOS 1D Mark II we had. The G7 made for spectacular candid shots that were rich with emotion and reality. This is very difficult when you're in a foreign environment since your mere presence tends to be a spectacle. We work in remote villages where American's rarely visit. To be able to "fade" into the background while daily life happened made for very powerful shots.
     
     * 10 MP images that were sharp as could be (when the auto focus got it right). The colors were rich and very representative of what I was trying to capture. Our senior photographer was stunned when he witnessed the results on my laptop each evening. He started off very skeptical when I told him I was going with the G7 prior to our departure, but by the end of the trip, he was thinking of picking up a G7 to compliment his EOS 1D Mark II – it’s not a replacement, but its small size and great image quality make for a fine compliment to his clearly superior pro-camera.
     
     * The macro lens made some very interesting up close pictures of people. Our senior photographer (there were two of us photographers on a team of 15) who was using a very nice EOS 1D Mark II with some killer $L$ series lenses even asked if I actually had a wide angle lens on the G7 since the macro capability combined with the zoom pulled full out made for some really neat up close face shots. This worked especially well with the kids who we tend to tower over.
     
     * The image stabilization lens combined with high ISO capabilities made for some great natural light pictures. There's nothing worse than using a flash when you're trying to capture emotionally charged situations. Villagers were able to express themselves while I quietly photographed with minimal intrusion. This was also possible because the camera is so quiet and small. The EOS 1D Mark II is huge and noisy. I’m surprised that with all the effort put into making the Ultrasonic lenses so quiet, that canon’s curtain still thunders every time you take a picture. It does make for a very authentic pro-journalist feel though – but this tends to pull the attention of individuals who are not so use to devices that cost more than they can earn over multiple years of hard work.
     
     * FAST. I was usually able to start up my camera from being powered off and snap a shot of something that I saw racing towards me from the back of my “auto-rickshaw” to get a reasonable composition of what I planned in my minds eye. This is the only non-SLR digital camera that I’ve used that suffered no hesitation and started up so quickly. All the other team members who were using point and shoots kept asking me how my camera got those shots - $ was my answer. LoL. It’s definitely not cheap for a point and shoot.
     
     * High capacity – this is more a function of the 4 GB SD chip I had, but the ability to store about 900 images at full resolution & quality made it possible to shoot pictures to my hearts content every day without concern for space. I was averaging about 500 shots a day.
     
     * Ease of use. I know many people are complaining about such and such being easier to use. I don’t have the disadvantage of having to unlearn a prior point and shoot, so the G7 seemed great to me. Once I mastered its wealth of features, I was able to switch with minimal effort. The dedicated ISO wheel made for easy changes in rapidly changing lighting conditions. Imagine being in an unlit hut one minute, then being pulled outside to a sunny beach the next only to find yourself taking pictures of an old man working on a fishing net under a dense covering of palm trees a few minutes later. Easy access to ISO made the difference. I remember when I used the original EOS Elan. I knew that thing inside and out. I hated the EOS 1 series when I first tried one, but I quickly mastered them as well. It’s all about knowing your equipment. There’s nothing particularly bad about the G7’s interface that stood out – and trust me, I’m pretty picky about interfaces.
     
     CONTINUED ->>

     J.P. at 08:49am on Monday, November 20, 2006

139. PART II:
     
     Loved Continued:
     
     * Great screen. When you’re not using an SLR, it’s hard to tell if you got the focus you planned on. This kinda drives me crazy since I’m an SLR guy – I can’t stand not being able to see what I am actually getting in detail before I take the picture. I’m not saying the G7 is comparable to an SLR in any way in this regard, but at least it made it easier to zoom in and check for clear focus on the part of my subject I wanted. As far as the swivel screen is concerned: EOS 1’s have never had swivel screens and the majority of pro-photographers have done great without them. If you love your art, then you should have no problem getting down on your back to get that occasional picture that requires a unique perspective. I know I found myself doing this a few times, but again, I’m an SLR guy so I felt right at home. Not to mention, I feel kind of dumb trooping around a slum in a developing nation and returning to my hotel with my kaki’s unsoiled. My G7 solved this problem nicely. LoL.
     
     * Rugged. I placed my G7 on my back pack on top of my bed when I was in a hurry to get out the door. I grabbed my backpack not realizing my camera was on top and slung it across the room only to hear what sounded like a water bottle clashing on the hard stone floor. When I realized what I had done, my heart sank and I knew my photographic journey was over for this round in India. To my surprise, I picked up the camera, ran through all the systems and found it to be 100% functional – though there’s a new dent in the lower left hand corner of the front face that drives me crazy (yes I’m one of those guys that hates pulling off the plastic cover protection film thing on new devices). Thank God the G7 is so rugged because some of my best shots were yet to come.
     
     * Fully retracting lens with built in lens cover. I laughed at the number of times the people on the team were lamenting having misplaced their lens caps. Also, the flat profile of the camera, when turned off, made it really easy to throw in my back pack with little concern for the lens.
     
     Not so Loved:
     
     * Focus. The EOS 1D Mark II has a much smaller auto focus square that makes for some very precise focus. I can hone in on the tip of someone’s nose if I want. The G7… not so much… the large clumsy green focus square made for some frustrating shots where the G7 picked some random part of a persons face to focus on. And yes, I know about the magic Digic III face recognition feature. I played around with it and found the center focus more familiar and much faster, which is a must when you’re surrounded