Canon Announces Additions to PowerShot Line: SD200 and SD300 Bring Advanced Movie Mode and larger LCD Screens to Slight Frame
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The key advancement on both of these new PowerShot models is the revolutionary 60 frames-per-second shooting speed available in movie mode. This rate exceeds anything currently on the market for digital still cameras and surpasses many camcorders, often limited to 30 frames per second, as well. This will put these two PowerShot cameras into an elite "hybrid" category, capable of recording fluid motion video at exceptional speeds. The 60 frames-per-second rate enables the SD200 and SD300 user to record full-frame coverage of rapidly moving vehicles or record a full range of motion from a sports or action scene.

The SD200 and SD300 are the first PowerShot models to feature Canon’s DIGIC 2 image processor, specifically designed to provide rapid start-up time and automatic focusing as well as reduce shutter lag speed. The DIGIC II processor also aids automatic white balance precision, a recurring ailment in many point-and-shoot imagers. Enhanced color reproduction also results from the DIGIC II processor, helping tonal production in bright, blown-out shooting situations, along with granting a wider dynamic range to provide the user with more flexible depth of field and shooting speeds.


Each model contains a 9-point TTL (Through The Lens) AiAF automatic focusing method with an AF assist beam. There are 13 preset shooting modes included, intended to orient the camera to a variety of shooting scenarios. Continuous shooting modes are also provided, allowing the user to shoot at a constant rate of 2.4 frames-per-second until the card is full.
The new PowerShot cameras have a mechanical and electronic shutter with speeds ranging from 15 seconds to 1/1500 of a second. This will grant the point-and-shoot user some flexibility in the light needed to make a proper exposure. However, in those instances when a tripod is not accessible, both cameras are equipped with a fixed stock flash that features six modes (Auto, Auto / Red-Eye Reduction, Flash On, Flash On with Red-Eye Reduction, Off, and Slow-Synchro.) The flash units have been positioned away from the lens to alleviate red-eye.

There is a Print and Share button designed to accommodate instantaneous printing, as well as an ID Photo Print mode that will enable users to print passport-sized photos. A movie print feature is also available to print a selection of frame captures from recorded video. Standard PictBridge printing is also available from compatible printers. Some can create paper composites in as fast as 85 seconds.
The SD200 is set to arrive in retail stores in October at an estimated price of US$299.99. Consumers will have to wait until November for the SD300, opening at US$399.99.