Unbiased digital camera reviews, advice, and prices
Note: This camera was first sold in Feb 2006. It has been replaced by the Canon S5 IS.
Canon PowerShot S3 IS
Canon PowerShot S3 IS
B-
HQ Grade: B-
A is outstanding and exceptional, rated in the top 10% of digital cameras.
B means they are good, with some standout features.
C means they are mediocre, and probably more trouble than they are worth.
D & F mean they are absolutely awful or old. Avoid at all costs.
  • 4 out of 5
"Apart from the noise, great camera"
  • 4 out of 5
"Photographer in Training..S3 filled all needs.."
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Question Possibly Answered (10 points for the best answer)
Frustrated with Canon (lenserror) 0 pts

camera wont turn on to take pictures

when i try turn it on to take a picture the camera lens extends then shuts off. It will only come on to view photos already taken but I can't take any new photos.
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Answers This question has replies but the author has not yet indicated whether it's answered after a long time. Can you answer the question, or post a clarifying follow-up?
by James DeRuvo (byjamesderuvo) 58448 pts
July 3, 2009 2:39 PM
0 people rated this answer helpful, 0 people rated this answer not helpful
 
Try resetting your camera, updating your firmware, and cleaning your battery contacts with a pencil eraser. Examine what batteries you use as you need batts with an mAh of at least 2500.

If these don't work, it's possible your a victim of a failed CCD and it would require repair. But since it's already out of warranty (I'm assuming), it may be cheaper just to buy a new one. The avg. cost of camera repair is about $180, and the rule of thumb is that if a repair costs north of 50% what you paid for it, you should just get a new camera. Hope not for your sake, but there you go.
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