The new S5 IS has once again moved Canon into the forefront of a digital camera debate. With an 8 megapixel sensor, a 12X optical zoom with image stabilization, and ISOs up to 1600, the S5 IS is a perfect candidate for fast action photography. As is usually the case with Canon digital cameras, the optics are exceptional, making the overall picture quality, color balance, and detail well above average. Noise is not an issue, and is acceptable, even at the maximum ISO. Visually, the sleek body design makes the camera even that much more appealing. The 2.5” Swivel LCD allows the user to shoot at creative angles that are not normally possible with a fixed LCD or a viewfinder. The swivel screen also allows the view finder to be reversed when it’s not in use to prevent it from getting damaged. The camera uses SD media and runs on 4 AA batteries that are good for about 450 shots.

Olympus has recently decided to make it a point to not only meet, but exceed consumer expectations in the digital camera market. In doing so, they have introduced us to digital cameras that are water resistant, waterproof, freeze proof, and crushproof. The focus of the Olympus 550uz, is slightly different, yet innovative in its own way. It brings us yet another option for cameras that can be used for sports photography, but this time with a list of features not normally found in a point and shoot camera, and usually not found in this price range. With 7.1 megapixels, an 18X optical zoom with image stabilization, and ISOs up to 5000, there is no job too big for it. The 550uz offers shutter speeds up to 1/2000 sec with a burst mode that allows continuous shooting as fast as 15 fps. It has a 2.5” LCD. For power, it uses 4 AA batteries that can take approximately 560 shots and records onto XD media. Also, for anyone interested in underwater photography, there is even an underwater housing available.