Long time fans of consumer electronics will be quick to point out that if you want a really great camera then you will want to purchase a Canon.

Canon has been producing brilliant cameras for many years and has made the transition to digital cameras a lot smoother than many of its competitors. Does the new Canon PowerShot SX500 IS continue this tradition of excellence? It certainly does which is great news for those interested in purchases a megazoom camera. Although it is far from the best camera Canon has produced, it features are excellent and for $227 you are getting a great deal on a truly solid new camera.

Superzoom.

This is a new mid-range superzoom camera that offers an impressive 16x zoom that ensures you can bring the subject of your photo up close and personal. The camera will be covering a 28-448mm range which increases the likelihood you can capture the subject you are interested in even it is quite far away. Of course, the camera can also effectively take pictures of closer subjects and present them in fully detailed, crystal clear clarity.

One drawback here is the camera is merely a point and shoot model. For some, this might be perfectly fine but for those that might have more dynamic uses in mind for the camera, a model with advanced photo shooting and capture features might be preferred.

If you are interested in a lens that is impressive, the 30X, 24-720mm equivalent lens will definitely impress. This lens is excellent and support the ability to take truly outstanding pictures. Further contributing to the ability to make excellent photos would be the great improvements in autofocus speed and a reduction in shutter lag. Previous camera releases presented slower autofocus speeds and the shutter lag was an annoying distraction from the potential to take perfect pictures. And who would not want to take perfect pictures?

Design.

It is curious that the manufacturers at Canon designed such a bland looking design. This is definitely not a camera that will win any awards for looks. That said, the somewhat dull visual appearance does not detract from the performance functions of the camera. For most, it is performance that counts the most so the clunky looking appearance is forgivable.

If there was a single feature that definitely allows the camera to standout it would be the Canon’s Intelligent IS system. The Intelligent IS system is designed to help compensate for camera movements. There will be those instances where you do not have access to a tripod or you have to take a photo on the spur of the moment, you do not want a camera that is moving errantly and unexpectedly. The Intelligent IS system compensates for such motion which makes the photographer’s job a lot easier. That will translate into the ability to take much better pictures.

Again, for only $227 this is not a costly camera when comparing it to other models. As such, it is the perfect investment for those looking for a reliable megazoom camera that is packed with reliable performance features.

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