The Canon A650 IS suggests DSLR features at a point and shoot price. The full range of controls, allowing the shooter the opportunity to experiment and grow in their skill is a wonderful addition to a point and shoot camera. Image stabilization is such a welcome addition to low-light and telephoto shots, making the percentage of ‘keepers’ that much higher. The larger sensor offered by the A650 IS gives cleaner high ISO shots than the other cameras, both of which use smaller sensors. The use of manual focus allows for the quick capture of subjects. The six-power zoom range is always welcome, and the use of AA batteries means if you ever run out, the nearest store is bound to have some available. The one thing this camera doesn’t have is a wide-angle lens, it is a basic 35mm. However, using the panoramic shot mode you can take two overlapping pictures and turn them into one on your computer with the included software! This is a camera that you can use comfortably and concentrate on what you want to do, take pictures!