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Expert Recommendation
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Overview
The new Canon SD950 IS packs a lot of features in a very classy chassis. This compact camera offers a titanium housing, which befits the flagship of the line. The SD950 has a great LCD, offering 15 levels of brightness, which is very important if you are shooting in bright light and 18 shooting modes for your choosing. A camera that is perfect for social gatherings, the SD950 IS offers Image Stabilization for low light situations and image quality that will make it stand out among the compact crowd.
My Best In Class Pick
Canon PowerShot SD950 IS
The Canon SD950 IS is as much of a compact you can have and still be a compact. The image stabilization combines with a large sensor to allow you the best in low light shooting situations. The face detection feature and latest image processor makes the SD950 a great choice for social situations, and the finish is just icing on the cake. An LCD with brightness adjustments and an optical viewfinder for backup shows the versatility of the SD950. Toss in a large number of shooting modes (to let the camera excel in different situations without you having to memorize a photography textbook) and you can see why this compact camera is a winner.
Where to buy
Canon PowerShot SD950 IS
Specifications
- Zoom: 3.5x
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Resolution: 12.1MP
- Max ISO: 3200
- Easy to Use: Yes
Comparing My Best In Class Pick with Other Good Choices
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| Price | $599.00 | $899.95 | |
| Size (W x H x D) | 3.8 x 2.4 x 1.1 | 4.1 x 2.3 x 1.4 in. | 4.4 x 2.7 x 2.2 in. |
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Sensor Size
Most digital cameras, even most digital SLRs, have sensors that are smaller than a standard frame of 35 mm film (36 x 24 mm). These smaller sensors have a number of effects on the captured image and the use of the camera, including an increased depth of field, decreased light sensitivity, increased pixel noise, and increased degree of enlargement.
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7.6 x 5.7 mm | 6.0 x 4.4 mm | 7.6 x 5.7 mm |
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Viewfinder Available
A viewfinder is a window that you look through to compose the picture. Some cameras do not have a viewfinder and instead use the LCD display. The LCD display may be difficult to see in bright light and may make it more difficult to capture fast-moving subjects because of the time required to update the display.
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Yes | No | Yes |
| Weight (without batteries) | 5.8 oz | 8.2 oz | 10.6 oz |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3
The Panasonic TZ-3 is a sharp looking compact camera with some wonderful features. Boasting a wide-angle lens and optical image stabilization, the Panasonic also offers a ten-power zoom. This combined with a large, clear LCD on the back makes it a serious competitor for those wanting to shoot in low-light situations. It does, however, use a proprietary battery.
Where to buy
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3
Specifications
- Zoom: 10.0x
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Resolution: 7.2MP
- Max ISO: 3200
- Easy to Use: Yes
- Recommended at DPReview.com
- Dave's Pick at Imaging-Resource.com
- Rated Very Good by CNET.com
Canon PowerShot A650 IS
The Canon Powershot A650 IS offers a lot to the average shooter. Image stabilization and full manual control for those who want it make the Canon a great overall family camera. The Canon also offers a full auto mode for people that just want to ‘capture the moment’ without worrying about settings, and the six-power zoom in this class of camera is a welcome offering. When you add in the swing-out LCD, the overall versatility of this camera is very clear. For those who want a truly compact camera, the A650’s grip and lens will be an issue.
Where to buy
Canon PowerShot A650 IS
Specifications
- Zoom: 6.0x
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Resolution: 12.1MP
- Max ISO: 3200
- Easy to Use: Yes
How It Works
You tell us your budget, intended uses, and desired features. We show you personalized recommendations from unbiased experts to quickly identify the best digital camera for you.
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How to Pick Digital Cameras
- For Travel Photos
- For Photos of Children or Pets
- For Action or Sports Photos
- For Photos in Low Light
