Bright f/2.0 lens, great for shooting in low light conditions or using a shallow depth-of-field - The S90 sports an f/2.0 aperture, perfect for creating enticing portraits, by drawing attention to t
Customer Reviews
Powershot S90 by Cannon - Sep 02, 2010
This camera has served me well, as my backup camera. I take it to more hazardous events (weather, shock, etc.) A few people say that they don't like the build quality and that it is almost too small. It's not an issue for me b/c I have small hands to begin with. It is very light, but no lighter than other point-and-shoots that I've used, and for the quality of the pictures, well worth the money spent. It would be nice if the battery lasted a little longer though! I read tons of reviews on this camera before biting the bullet and buying one of my own. I was torn between this and the next model up in price. I am not a pro photographer and just wanted something I could fit easily into my purse when I didn't want to lug heavy equipment with me on day trips. Because the size was so important to me, I opted for this model. I am not disappointed at all - I like this camera and continue to be impressed at the beautiful the images coming SOOC.
The best P&S camera I've ever used...period - Sep 02, 2010
I recently got this camera (yes i know, the S95 just came out) and I've loved using it.
The S90 is a point and shoot camera,but not necessarily compact. It's about an inch thick and an inch and a half including the control ring. The controls feel good with the exception of the shutter button. The control ring can easily get confused for the shutter button when you're not paying attention. It only has a 3.8X zoom, but the large f/2 aperture is worth it. I've taken several low light photos at isos of 80-400. Noise isnt much of a problem until iso 800. after 800, it starts getting noisy...fast. The priority modes are a nice addition to this camera as well as the custom, program, and manual modes. The auto mode will do a good job on its own, but the camera really shines when put in manual.
The picture quality is excellent. Zoomed in at 100% there is little chromatic abberation and only some purple fringing, but it wont detract from the photo too much. It has less chromatic abberation than average (most P&S cameras ive seen have it to some extent so don't get too uptight about it). The RAW capabilities are pretty nice, but there is a great amount of barrel distortion when shot in RAW mode. The camera does a really good job of correcting it when converted to JPEG though.
This is the low light king of the P&S jungle. Sony and Casio have CMOS sensors with a mode to take several pictures at different exposures at a high speed. Not needed with the s90. The day I got it I tried using it in a dark parking lot at night in front of a few shops. I was able to see everything in the picture with the f/2 lens at iso 80 and 1/5 shutter speed. It takes some time to play with the settings and figure out what works.
Blur from hand shake isnt that bad due to the IS on this camera.
It takes some time to get used to the plethora of controls and settings. This camera isn't for novice users. If you're looking for a great point and shoot and aren't technically inclined, then search for another camera. As i said before, this camera does a decent job in auto mode, but it really shines in manual. The auto mode sometimes selects settings that may undersaturate the pictures.
Colors are for the most part accurate, but greens tend to be somewhat bright and reds and blues are very strong. Yellows tend to shift toward to green but its not that bad.
The camera operates at an average speed, with some shutter lag and as long as you prefocus, it shouldn't be that bad.
Overall, this is a great point and shoot with great low light abilities. It produces better pictures than any other point and shoot I've seen and its large sensor only adds to the experience. With decent noise handling up to iso 800, which i havent seen on any other point and shoot, it will give you a sharp image in any light.
Canon Powershot S90 - Aug 29, 2010
I did a lot of research before buying this camera. I am very happy with this purchase. I've used it for one trip so far and my photos have turned out great. I'm still learning about some of its features but it was easy to use right off the bat and get good photos - and I'm not a big photographer. Amazon had it for the cheaper price.
Great Camera, but - Aug 29, 2010
The Canon S 90 is a wonderful camera. After I bought mine, my son and daughter also purchased a S90 from Amazon. My single issue with the camera is that the image does not on occasion rotate from horizontal to vertical. It seems to happen after I have taken a series of pictures in the horizontal. I discover more features every day.
Great camera from a DSLR user - Aug 28, 2010
I would be a definite prosumer. My main bag consists of a 5D Mark II and several L series lenses. I shoot nature and ballroom dancing, both of which push different extremities of my equipment. I mostly shoot in manual mode with any camera system I use, so I am writing this review from that perspective. I purchased the S90 as a primary camera for snorkeling (coupled with the Canon housing). Although I have not used it for that purpose yet, I have had a chance to play around with the camera a little. First, I will get the negatives out of the way. I have big hands, and handling this camera is somewhat a put-off. It is small and it feels like you are going to inadvertently touch buttons all the time. This will not be a problem in the underwater housing, but I have determined it as a drawback at this point...now on to the good.
This camera takes great pictures.I was shooting my puppy this morning. He was moving around a bit, and the lighting was shifting between window sunlight and tungsten light. I decided I would need to kick up the ISO, but I was reserved with this camera. I sometimes shoot up to 5200 with the Mark II, but I decided to stop at 400 on the S90 with the small sensor. I set the camera into manual, got my bearings on control (which took all of 5 seconds to figure out aperture and shutter knobs), and started to pop off a few shots. You pick the aperture with the front ring. I set this to f7.0 (I have a dachshund, so he is long and I wanted him all in focus). I then used the wheel on the back to set the shutter speed. The one thing I noticed was the live view on the camera back responded immediately. I also own an Olympus PEN, and a Leica Dlux-4, but the Canon takes the cake with its very responsive live view and beautiful screen. I grabbed my Mac and imported the RAW photos into iphoto (much quicker than lightroom for inport and previewing). I was amazed as I pixel peaked around the image. This camera does a very nice job with the small sensor. It is as good or better than the Leica with color photos (B&W will probably be another issue as that is where the Dlux-4 excels). No adjustments would be necessary, even on the RAW images. The sensor is fantastic for its size.
Overall, this is a VERY fun camera to operate (more than I can say for the Leica or PEN). I hope to add to this review after my Hawaii trip. I can tell you that this a great, compact, portable addition to a prosumer's or professional's bag (or pocket for that matter).
Great compact for the serious photographer - Aug 26, 2010
The S90 is an amazing camera; most of all for the form-factor. I carry mine almost everywhere/all the time.
In good light, the S90 can take very fine images- most of all, the detail that can be pulled out of the RAW files from this little camera is simply amazing for a compact. Of course the lens has a large part to play, too.
And no, the "loose" rear control dial does not bother me- I suspect that Canon did it intentionally; a 'harder' dial in such a small camera would mean your fingers jog the camera too!
Thanks!!! I love my new camera!! - Aug 25, 2010
I ordered this item on Monday, and received it on Wednesday morning!! I couldn't be happier.
The negative review on Poseido must be from somebody who tried to scam him. I had no issues whatsoever! He was helpful, quick to respond to email concerns, and complied with my requests.
I haven't used my camera yet, it literally JUST arrived here in my office 10 mins ago. But I know the capabilities of my S90 and I can't WAIT to start using it (after the battery charges :P )
Thanks again!!
Excellent everyday/everywhere camera! - Aug 23, 2010
After many years as a loyal Sony customer, I decided to give Canon a go and purchased this camera. Now, all I have to say is...
... I *LOVE* this camera! It's the perfect size to toss in your bag and carry with you all day, every day. The automatic modes are great, and they result in excellent photos on the whole. I have a more sophisticated camera as well, and I find that photos I take in the automatic mode are almost always burry or dark; the canon (on the other hand) quickly switches between automatic modes and sets up a great photo in a just few seconds, which makes it perfect for quick snapshots or photos on the go. The controls are intuitive and I love that you have many options for manual controls should you decide you want to experiment or get creative! I also love the dial on the front of the camera; it makes it a lot easier to access functions that would normally be hidden a few button presses down on other point and shoot cameras. Also, I find that I rarely need to use the flash because of the lens in this camera. As a result, my photos have really natural looking colors, and my subject's eyes are less often closed or squinted. :-)
If you are looking for a camera that takes excellent pictures on the go and is a camera that you can take with you everywhere, I would highly suggest you consider this one! I love it, use it almost every day, and can't recommend it enough.
Like - Aug 23, 2010
Pretty awesome. Auto works for most of my needs, but in low night I need to use the Tv/Av/Manual settings. I like this camera because it is several hundred dollars cheaper than a DSLR, but has the same control settings as a professional camera, and it is portable and can be used like a point and shoot. Thanks Canon!
Finally good indoor snaps with no flash - Aug 23, 2010
This camera does a ton of things well. Its external controls make it extremely easy to use manual settings-something I never even really bother with on other point and shoots I have owned because it always involves tons of sub-menus and button-pushing. It is made with a nice aluminum casing, and fits in a jeans pocket. I found the menu system fairly easy to use.
I read all these horror stories about accidentally adjusting the dial on the back and how impossible it is to hold on to this camera. I really haven't had a problem, I'm not sure if I have just always handled cameras the way this one falls to hand but it has not been a problem. It could have a bigger grip, but I definitely haven't had a problem without it. I would say go to a camera store and see how it fits in your hand if you can.
Really, though all of these things could be said about other point and shoots, what sets this camera apart is the quality of images you can extract with such a compact camera, and how easy it is to do so. The biggest thing I noticed was the killer for point-and-shoots-slightly-less-than-light indoor situations. You don't want to use a flash and wash someone out. Previously all you could do was raise the ISO and watch your photo turn to grain or come out a blurry mess. This camera takes astoundingly good pictures in that situation-which is, let's face it, the situation that 80% of casual snapshots are taken. Rarely do you get to take a picture of grandma out on a day in the park with a setting sun. Usually it's in some half-lit room somewhere. My DSLR also can do this, but I have to take it around everywhere, and people don't act naturally when you point a big ol serious camera at them. I have gotten some really lovely images, both with the AUTO mode and using the program/manual functions. Totally recommended, and I bet this camera could really help solve some people's frustrations with why their pictures don't come out.
There are a ton of other great things this camera does-just wanted to bring up the one thing it did that really amazed me.
Great Camera - Aug 23, 2010
I have good cameras since late 60's and loved my Nikon SLRs but I will tell you that this camera plus Lightroom is killer. Also, had a problem 9 months into ownership, sent in the camera to Canon and 8 days later I had my camera back and it was fixed. Nothing else to say.
Awesome Dive camera that fits in pocket - Aug 21, 2010
Was considering the G11 and the S90. Ended up with the S90 as an all-around vacation and pocket camera. Got the Canon underwater housing and have awesome photos down to 110 feet and tons of great snorkeling and pool shots. And it does a great job above water. kids can get great photos using the automatic mode. We can get even better shots with all the other features. I particularly like the low light and nostalgic settings. Hubby likes the manual mode. This camera is worth its weight/size/money. GREAT CAMERA!Canon WP-DC35 Underwater Housing for Canon PowerShot S90 Digital Camera
Didn't Let Me Down - Aug 17, 2010
The Canon name and my past experience with a Canon Sure Shot led me to my new Canon S90. Out of the box, without the manual, my first 60 pictures are gorgeous. Easy to use with the AUTO setting - can't wait to play around with other features.
Great when traveling light - Aug 17, 2010
This is a great little camera for when you are traveling light. The video is not HD, but for my purposes it shoots quite well. I am still learning the various settings and functions, but since I have been shooting with a Canon 50D for about a year now, this camera is easy to learn. I have found the auto modes easy and quite accurate, so I will probably use them often. I rarely rely on the auto modes with my 50D. I found the battery life better than what I read on many of the reviews. I bought an extra battery, but I just returned from a trip where I shot about 300 photos and the battery still showed full--although I used the low-light setting and did not use a flash.
Excellent overall and I would recommend to anyone who wants a good back-up for their larger DSLR.
Canon S90 vs G11 Decision - Aug 12, 2010
Both cameras are excellent and either are a fine choice. I painfully researched this to death since each had features I wanted the other did not have while sharing a lot of the important things. Most reviewers have already reviewed the technical aspects pro and con of each better than I can. What finally made the decision for me was in how I intended to use it.
What prompted my purchase was wanting a good but affordable underwater camera, and both the S90 and G11 are excellent choices for that. For the record the S90 did amazing and I have the pictures to prove it. If you are looking at if for that reason paired with the Canon case, you will not be disappointed.
The final straw in my decision process was will this be my only camera? If the answer for you is yes it is, and having the smallest camera possible isn't a huge issue, then I would recommend going with the G11. The optic viewfinder is very important in serious outdoor photography and the better zoom too. The G11 is more rugged and at least for guys, fits better in the hands. For me though, I have used a much larger camera while backpacking and still intend to buy a Nikon D90. The Canon S90 is my go everywhere camera, and obviously my choice for underwater use, and one I can easily carry on my belt on vacation. Either is a good choice, but for me the S90 was the best decision. If you biggest concern is about photo quality and you are considering only pocketsize cameras, there really is not better choice at this price or less.
Photo quality rivals a digital SLR. Takes amazing low light photos. - Aug 12, 2010
SUMMARY:
For those that are seeking excellent photo quality, this camera trumps its competition. Also, this camera will suit you well if you like to shoot with different scenes, tweak settings and/or customize things. On the other hand, if you're looking for something very simple, small and/or low-cost, then this is not the camera for you.
PREFACE:
When it comes time to make a big purchase, my husband and I seek out the best of the best. We always do lots of research and read countless reviews. This research has made it clear that in the world of compact point & shoot cameras, Canon stands out above the rest. And right now, the best camera available in this class is the Canon Powershot S90. (For those interested, our favorite trusted camera review sites are: [...] and [...])
Why is it the best? There are too many things to list here... Here's a link to a very detailed review:
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MY REVIEW:
For me personally, the most important selling points were:
1.) LARGE CCD SENSOR - The sensor is much larger than your typical compact camera sensor, and it is a CCD which is superior to the more commonly found CMOS sensor. Normally you will only find this type of sensor on a digital SLR (DSLR). As a result, the photo quality from this camera rivals that of my Nikon DSLR. The photo quality is spectacular, especially in low light. You really have to see some sample comparison photos to truly appreciate it.
2.) CUSTOMIZABLE "SCENE" - It has your typical automatic and scene modes, but also has a customizable mode like you will find on DSLRs. This gives you the ability to tweak the settings exactly the way you like them and save them as a separate "C" mode - easily accessible on the top dial.
3.) CUSTOMIZABLE BUTTON & LENS RING. Have you ever been frustrated with the number of steps required to change certain settings? Well this camera allows you to customize the functions of the "S" button and the ring around the lens so you can set up easy shortcuts to the settings/features you use most often. Personally, I use the "S" button to change shooting mode (single shot vs. continuous vs. timer), and I use the lens ring to control exposure compensation (to make photos lighter or darker).
4.) LOW LIGHT CAPABILITY - I am usually never happy with the way photos turn out using the flash on a compact camera... The lighting just tends to look unnatural. So whenever possible, I shoot with the flash off. Since this camera handles low light so well, I almost never use the flash. I am just blown away by some of the photos this camera has taken in low light! Again, you have to see it to believe it.
5.) HIGH RESOLUTION DISPLAY - With most compact camera displays, when reviewing a photo it's usually hard to tell if the focus was correct, among other things. But the high resolution display on this camera shows excellent detail and reproduces color well, thus giving you a much more accurate preview of the photo.
Some downsides to note:
1.) POOR BATTERY LIFE - Just order a few compatible generic batteries and always keep a charged spare in your camera case. I do this with all of my cameras, regardless of their battery life. There's nothing worse than having a fantastic photo opportunity and a dead battery!
2.) POOR ERGONOMICS - When holding the camera in your right hand, your index finger falls naturally on the mode selection dial, not the shutter. This can be annoying, but as you use the camera more, your muscle memory puts your finger in the right place. Also, it's really easy to turn the lens ring, thus changing the outcome of your photo. I have found no resolution to this problem other than to be careful.
3.) SIZE/SHAPE - It's a little less compact than many of the compact cameras available these days. However, it has to be larger to fit the big sensor in there, so I'm willing to make that sacrifice. Also, the fact that the lens sticks out makes it a bit awkward to fit in certain cases or to tuck away into a purse or pocket.
Overall, I am thrilled with this camera! It continues to amaze me and give me that giddy "I LOVE this thing!" feeling. :)
Best point and shoot camera - Aug 10, 2010
Bought this camera whilst on holiday in the states. After carrying out some research I purchased this and have absolutely no regret. A friend of mine who is a professional photographer was keen to see this little black box in action. He was impressed and is now considering buying one as a back up.
Positives
* Quality of low light shots - brilliant prob best in class.
* Quality of the lens - f2.0-4.9 - can you find any better in a point and shoot.
* The ability to fully customise your settings exactly like a DSLR.
* Good battery life - easily 300+ shots for me.
* Build quality of the case, metal.
* The unique feature of having a ring on the lens.
* The ability to shot in RAW format.
* Easy to use menu system.
Negatives
* Rear ring can be prone to moving.
* Flash is located in an awkward position (not for me, but I understand why some may feel this way).
Overall a brilliant camera that takes excellent pictures in auto mode and has the ability to produce pictures that are only limited by the experience and imagination of the user.
Fantastic pocket camera - Aug 10, 2010
Debated for almost a year before buying this camera. If you can't take your SLR, or don't have an SLR, this is the one to have with you. It's not perfect---the only flaw I see is you won't get good bokeh in the out-of-focus areas. Probably due to the short lens and small size of the camera. Other than that this is a fantastic camera. Great low light pics. Fast lens. Very user friendly controls. Tons of adjustments. You can customize this camera easily and always return to your settings by using the "C" on the control knob. Very well thought out camera that takes excellent pics in all kinds of light.
Cannon S-90 - Amazing - Aug 09, 2010
This is probably the 15th digital "point and shoot" camera I have owned in the last 5 years. I am in the event business so portability, quick and easy features and great low light pictures are important. A DSLR is not feasible. I have owned just about every top brand from Cannon, Kodak, Samsung, Olympus and Panasonic. Never had a Sony as their products are good but I can't hack the memory stick and another card format. They are all great and reliable brands and have their great and not-so great points. Point and shoots can only go so far when it comes to picture quality. Until now that is. This camera is amazing. Don't let the 3.8 optical zoom steer you away. It is all you need. Amazon sells an advanced guide book for the camera and I strongly recommend spending the $37.00. It comes with a CD version of the spiral bound book. The pictures are amazing and the camera is very easy to use once you get over the learning curve. It even takes pictures form standard to wide angle to RAW format. It has plenty of scene modes as well. Once you get the hang of it you will probably be setting your own custom modes and functions. The Program mode is really incredible. Did I mention the programmable control ring? Fantastic! There are point and shoots and then there is the Cannon S90. I know there are a slew of "point and shoot camera's" coming out in the fall but I would be amazed if any of them could match this camera for overall quality, features, design and picture quality. If you are "Point and Shoot" person this is the camera.
Camera failed- lousy customer service - Aug 09, 2010
Our S90 was a fine camera.
Then it just stopped working (at the age of two months). Power button hit, no action.
Canon customer service refused to provide a new replacement camera or any compensation for putting a huge damper on our vacation.
DO NOT BUY ELECTRONICS from Amazon - Aug 09, 2010
I had the camera for 2 months, and then it broke (lens got stuck and it will not turn on).
This seems to be a problem with many digital cameras and can be due to many things (water, sand, dust, etc.)
The problem is that amazon will not be responsible after 30 days! and they will ask you to contact Canon directly.
So, buy this from a local store (e.g. Best Buy) and pay the extra $20 and you will get their service for the first year!
A great backpacking camera - Aug 08, 2010
This little compact camera is an excellent camera to take on backpacking trips. I bought my Canon in July 2010 to take on a three-week trek across California's High Sierras. It did not disappoint.
Here are my observations after a month of heavy use, taking up to 170 photographs a day (which is conservative for me, but I was trying to conserve battery life)
Pros:
Excellent photo quality. Most scenes in any settings turned out vibrant.
Low weight and compact made carrying this in a deep jacket pocket convenient.
Sturdy. Although the camera was "dead" for four days after I fell into a swollen creek, the camera dried out and soldiered on as expected of a Canon.
Excellent low-light quality photographs.
Long battery life.
Cons:
LCD is very hard to see through in even normal sunlight.
New photographers will have to read the owner's manual to fully take advantage of the S90's many features. This is obviously only a "con" for novices.
No handgrip. The flat, flushed design makes holding this camera tricky. I wrapped black electric tape around the right side for a better hold in the backcountry.
Shutter release is a tad too far to the left of the hand grip; it doesn't feel ergonomically designed.
Back knob moves too easily from the set mode. A locking device would be ideal.
I bought this camera along with a Gorillapod, a small tripod I love. This made group and self-portraits a breeze. I also added four Maximal batteries to my load. The Maximal batteries performed as well as the Canon batteries, providing for 330 photographs before a recharge was needed (120 if using flash.)
AWESOME camera for snorkeling - Aug 06, 2010
Compact, easy to use, P&S camera. Very nice images. Naturally, the images aren't quite as nice as what you get with an SLR, but for a P&S it does a fantastic job. You can read what everyone else says about using it on land, I purchased it specifically to use on a snorkeling trip, so that will be the focus of my review. It did a SUPERB job underwater. I used it with a Canon WP-DC35 underwater housing. It fit snuggly, but had just enough room to squeeze a moisture muncher capsule in, as well. For a P&S camera, it focuses and shoots pretty quickly. Mostly I was taking pictures of dolphins in the water, and let me tell you they don't stick around long to pose! There's a little shutter lag, as is to be expected on this type camera, but overall I was able to get some spectacular shots. Very crisp, well lit, nice color. I've posted a few shots in the photo gallery. I'm thrilled to have finally found a decent underwater set-up for snorkeling that gives really nice shots, doesn't break the bank, and is easy to use and live with. Couldn't be happier with this camera for snorkeling. Worth every penny!
Great pocket camera - Aug 04, 2010
Excellent pocket camera. Good in low light, especially wide open at f2. However, there is a tradeoff as depth of field is limited at the wider apertures. Battery life (versus my DSLR) is very short. I suggest having a second or even third battery.
Best Pocket cam available to-date - Aug 03, 2010
Best investment ever. I was so amazed at the quality of photos and wide range of capabilities this little camera had to offer. I had so much fun taking pictures and playing around with various settings that I forgot how to even use AUTO mode. I've mainly been using Manual or ShutterSpeed Priority (Tv). Pictures are absolutely stunning and colors come out perfect. Couldn't have found a more versatile, compact, capable camera for the price. Get it!
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