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Canon Powershot SX10 IS

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

"Good camera...with a few issues."

5 out of 5

"Journey Shot"

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14th of 63 in Extended Zoom
23rd of 102 in 9 and 10 Megapixels
18th of 27 in Powershot
27th of 82 in Canon
5th of 49 in $300 - $350
16th of 88 in $350 - $600

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Answered!

Desmond (rockford999) 1 pts

December 5, 2008 11:47 PM

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Over-exposed background SX10IS! But not for my compact point-and-shot. Why?

I went for a ferry ride last weekend. When I focus the object, the background gets over-exposed. Is this normal for semi-pro camera like SX10IS? Is there any function to help the over-exposed?

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This question has been answered!

by James DeRuvo (byjamesderuvo) 58446 pts

December 12, 2008 2:31 PM

Sounds like your white balance may be off. Are you using a preset? First thing I would do is reset the camera. This is a fairly easy procedure which involves either going into your setup menu and choosing "reset" (or intialize), holding down the menu key for 5 seconds, or, removing the batteries for a few minutes. It may be that the firmware loading got corrupted and the camera just needs to be "rebooted," which is something that turning it on/off won't accomplish. But after which, you should have the camera reset to factory default settings.

Another tip is to go to Canon's website and look for firmware updates. Download and install them.

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Jennifer (hoalohadesign) 26 pts

December 18, 2008 6:20 PM

I am having a similar problem as Desmond. In particular, the white areas of the image are WAY too bright. I have spent hours online reading reviews on this camera and only one reviewer (that I have found) addresses this severe fault in the Canon SX10 (see: http://www.infosyncworld.com/reviews/digital-cameras/canon-powershot-sx10-is/9944.html, where the reviewer discusses the "the camera's inability to compensate for highly contrasted shooting environments.").
I am now on a search to see if this can be remedied in the shooting process. If anyone has any ideas, please post!

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Eric (edogcubed) 321 pts

December 18, 2008 7:30 PM

Just replied to to another question of the same topic:

That's the problem with digital cameras such as this. It's not fault of the camera, its' the sensor, the size and type of the sensor limits the dynamic range. Also, cameras in general don't "see" a scene the same way we do. It really can only "see" one strength of light. so if you take a shot inside, the camera will read that light and the stronger light coming in will be washed out.

A solution is to either shoot manual and the screen will change brightness so you can see what you're shooting. Or, pop one of canon's speedlite flashes on it and turn it up, that will even the strength of the light and won't wash out the windows.

Or you could just photoshop it out.

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Dan Elswick (swing84) 417 pts

December 18, 2008 8:06 PM

I suggest using iContrast in addition to manual control.

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by James DeRuvo (byjamesderuvo) 58446 pts

December 19, 2008 5:32 AM

Wow, I've bookmarked that review as it seems to really capture the essence of what is going on here with both Jennifer and Desmond. I would suggest at this point you contact Canon technical support and request and RMA return. You may be dealing with a defective chip or something that only they can either repair or replace. Particularly if this is a design issue.

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Desmond (rockford999) 1 pts

December 26, 2008 8:46 AM

Thanks to Jennifer, Eric, Dan, and James. Jennifer, you may refer to pg.133 of the user guide. This helps to lock the Flash Exposure of the background. I've tried and it works, just need more time to capture the image. I'm thinking to return this camera, but I bought it during my trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Now, I'm in Malaysia. I'm still figuring it out if the international technical support can do anything to help.

Dan, I've also tried iContrast, it doesn't help much.
James, I've also tried to reset, it doesn't help.
Seems to me like it's a design issue to compact 10MP into a small sensor, as this camera won't do any good in the low light too.

Little advice to others who wish to have fast shutter to be able to take good picture in low light, this is surely not a good camera to go with.

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Jennifer (hoalohadesign) 26 pts

January 14, 2009 1:49 PM

Hi everyone:
I wrote Canon and explained in great detail this issue. They will not issue a replacement because their Factory Service Center (FSC, in Elk Grove Village, IL) has had the opportunity to service the unit. Before I send the camera in, I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with sending their cameras to Canon for repair/inspection?

I don't know what to make of this. Is it possible they'll find something wrong and fix it? And if they don't find anything wrong, will they then offer me a replacement? Maybe I did get a defective unit...maybe a certain batch in the production line is flawed (?) (My unit was one of the first on the market; I bought it within the first month of release).

Any thoughts or tips anyone has on Canon's FSC would be appreciated.
Best,
Jennifer

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Jennifer (hoalohadesign) 26 pts

January 14, 2009 1:50 PM

oops, please note above the second sentence should read:

"They will not issue a replacement because FSC has NOT had the opportunity to service the unit." :o

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by James DeRuvo (byjamesderuvo) 58446 pts

January 14, 2009 4:23 PM

Well, the bottom line is that until you send it in, you won't know. Worst case, they send it back saying nothing is wrong with it. Then you can decide from there. But they may be able to determine a course of action, too.

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Desmond (rockford999) 1 pts

January 15, 2009 10:25 AM

Jennifer, I did send once to Canon service center because my old canon point-n-shot S400 has blank screen. They return the product within 1 week after finding out that the FlexCable attached to the LCD is somehow damaged/loosen. They replaced the cable for free, and send it back to me. I'm still using my canon S400 (released in year 2002-2003) until now. Touch wood...

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Desmond (rockford999) 1 pts

January 15, 2009 10:32 AM

Forgot to update you guys...
I've returned the SX10IS, and I believe I've bought the very 1st batch of the production parts which might have some intermittent/defective components, as mentioned by Jennifer.

I'm now looking to upgrade to entry-level of DSLR as the sensor will be alot larger than compact camera to accommodate low light shooting, and of course higher ISO quality, and faster speed (~3.5fps).

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by James DeRuvo (byjamesderuvo) 58446 pts

January 15, 2009 1:30 PM

Good move, Desmond. Are you looking at the Canon XSi? There's also the Nikon D90.

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Jennifer (hoalohadesign) 26 pts

January 15, 2009 4:02 PM

Thanks for sharing Desmond (re: you bought the very 1st batch, too). Where did you end up returning your SX10? Directly to Canon? How did they reimburse you?

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Desmond (rockford999) 1 pts

January 21, 2009 12:44 AM

Jennifer, let me correct my words, I bought it from Amazon while in USA, I can't return it from Malaysia. I've sold it to a local Canon fan (own lots of Canon DSLR) and looking for this SX10 desperately since it's not available yet in Malaysia. He used it mainly for outdoor/landscape shooting and didn't mind about the overexposure. I'd say this is perfect for landscape shooting.
Again, if you bought from BestBuy or CircuitCity or amazon, I believe you can conveniently return it, but there might be 5% handling charge/open package charge. Hope this helps.

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bukit97 (bukit97) 12611 pts

January 21, 2009 2:33 AM

Aha, Desmond, selling it in Malaysia and returning it to Canon USA are two different things.

Moreover, it's hard to believe that somebody ' deperately wants an SX10IS because it is not yet available there. '
This site in Malaysia, for example, sells all models of Canon cameras, including SX10IS.

There is also a Canon Plant in Malaysia producing Canon cameras. For all you know, SX10IS is also produced there. see this advertisement eBay sale that sells SX10IS ' complete with Malaysian Warranty Certificate'.

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Desmond (rockford999) 1 pts

January 21, 2009 5:23 AM

You're right, bukit. that's y I mention about 5% charge if Jennifer bought it from any store in US, then she probably can return!
Yes, this time around you can get it easily, but not few months back...as you know Malaysia market will be slower compared to other region to get new product (IF YOU"RE MALAYSIAN, YOU"LL KNOW)...if not, ops....

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bukit97 (bukit97) 12611 pts

January 22, 2009 11:04 AM

For those who wants to know more, Kuala Lumpur, the capitol of Malaysia is just 250 miles from Singapore and Johore Baru is just 10-15 minutes walk across the causeway to Singapore.

Anybody who is ' desperately ' in need of a camera, even though it is not on sale in his favorite shops in Kuala Lumpur or Johor Baru, can still get it easily in Singapore.

If everything else fail, a camera shop in Kuala Lumpur will get it imported from Singapore with short notices.
In fact, the same Cathay Photo in Singapore has a big branch in Kuala Lumpur, so is Ruby Photo and some other big suppliers and stockist.
Even parcel post takes only one day to deliver goods from Singapore to KL and DHL does it in less time.

If you are desperate, the Camera shops can get it delivered, as long as you pay, and desperate people don't mind paying.
By the way, if a cameraman already has " lots of Canon dSLR " as stated on 21 Jan 12.44am, no one would imagine he is " desperately in need of an SX10IS " to take outdoor/ landscape photos.

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by James DeRuvo (byjamesderuvo) 58446 pts

January 23, 2009 12:44 AM

I doubt Circuit City will accept it returned as they are liquidating right now.

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Desmond (rockford999) 1 pts

January 23, 2009 12:46 AM

opsss..out of topic...anyway, thanks for your sales advertisement...but not appreciate here...buki...

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Desmond (rockford999) 1 pts

January 23, 2009 12:48 AM

Well, then good luck!
And I'm still considering D90, James.

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by James DeRuvo (byjamesderuvo) 58446 pts

January 23, 2009 12:49 AM

(Cue Jeopardy theme, LOL). I do have to come to Bukit's defenses though,Desmond, as I think that your criticism of him is a tad harsh. Bukit isn't some greenhorn on his first rodeo. He's a regular contributor with solid and UNBIASED advice. He wasn't offering a "sales advertisement," but advice on where to get cameras in the future in that neck of the woods.

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Gregg 0 pts

February 13, 2009 11:58 AM

I just recently bought the SX-10 and was having the same problem with over-exposed shots. For indoor shots with flash try setting the SCN mode to "Indoor" and the white balance setting to "Flash". This took care of over-exposed indoor shots for me. Still playing with other types of over-exposed shots.

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Eric (edogcubed) 321 pts

February 13, 2009 12:11 PM

I agree, indoor has good color balance and if you are using strong flash then that white balance setting will make everything bronzy and the flash will even it out.

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Andrew 0 pts

March 2, 2009 5:24 PM

Hello. I'm having similar problems with the SX10. I seriously doubt there's any manufacturing defect.

I can't help but feel that because of the tendency to overexpose shots a lot of my pictures taken with the sx10 look far worse than my (very) old point and shoot.

Also, there seems to be a lot more noise which is disturbingly apparent on ISO settings above 300.

Is there any way to solve these problems? I'm rather disappointed with the camera to be honest.

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by James DeRuvo (byjamesderuvo) 58446 pts

March 2, 2009 10:17 PM

One way to minimize the overexposure of the flash is to diffuse it. You can do this by going to a one hour photo lab and asking them for a white plastic film canister. They'll have dozens and will probably give it to you. Then, cut a slit in the wall of the canister and slide it over the flash. The opaque white plastic will diffuse the flash enough to prevent washing out the subject.

As for noise, that is what can happen when you stuff more and more MP onto a CCD chip without increasing the size of the chip.

Let me explain. I came across an interesting article today about how more mega pixels is not necessarily a good thing. According to Image Engineering – a company that does testing of digital cameras for photo magazines in Germany – the quality of digital pictures has steadily decreased since the state of the art was six megapixels back in 2004. And because they don’t have a “dog in this hunt,” they put forth a compelling argument for buying new digital cameras with less mega pixels and not more.

The argument is essentially this: CCD chips on point and shoot cameras a smaller and as such, fitting in more pixels without a corresponding increase of chip size, causes them to lose light sensitivity. Sure, there’s more data on the chip, but the chip can’t absorb the light data and what it ends up with is a picture that has more noise than image quality.

About the only thing you can do is keep the ISO down. Rely on the preset program settings whenever possible, avoiding over-reliance on automatic settings.

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Dave (spooly) 0 pts

March 4, 2009 12:10 AM

To James DeRuvo - This is a great place for info - I too have an older Panasonic DMC-LZ3 (5MP- 6X optical zoom) that takes great photos; even have a Kodak DX6440 (4MP) that produces great results. I have been influenced by the camera companies marketing departments I belive; especially the 20X zoom high megapixels. I am going to delay a purchase of the Canon SX10-IS after reading the comments even thoughthe camera has an A+ rating? I may upgrade to a Sony DSC-H10 ( any comments?)

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by James DeRuvo (byjamesderuvo) 58446 pts

March 5, 2009 10:38 PM

The thing about the ratings is that in the beginning, they can be a tad skewed. If you have fans (or marketing departments) who seek generate buzz or disappointed users seeking to grind an axe, the rating can be inaccurate at the very beginning. But as more and more users post reviews about a camera, the more accurate the rating can be. It can drop, or rise. Perfect example was the Olympus SP560UZ. Initially, it had a rating of D-C because several reviewers posted negative reviews (some even before the camera came out, mind you). Then, as more people bought it posted their experience, the more accurate rating of A- took shape.

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Susan Warner (swarner) 3 pts

March 30, 2009 6:45 PM

I also have the over-exposure issue with my newly bought SX10. And a lot of fringing in macro. I am hoping to return it...any suggestions for a good replacement? I need GOOD macro.

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Jennifer (hoalohadesign) 26 pts

October 8, 2009 12:21 AM

Hi! This is Jennifer (from nearly a year ago's post when I purchased the SX10). I still have the camera...I did end up sending it to the Canon Factory to have them look at it, but they didn't find anything 'wrong'. From the time I sent it, to the time I received it back took 4 days total...which made me wonder if they really looked at my issue (?) In any case, I hung on to the camera...I like the zoom, it shoots good outdoors. Doesn't do well indoors or for moving objects...and I'm still finding that white objects in the pics are WAY too white (am now exploring the option of getting a filter, since Lensmate now has a filter adapter for the SX10---if anyone has any thoughts on filters, would love to hear from you).
I wouldn't recommend this model (would have returned it if I could to the local camera store), but it's fine for my purposes at the moment. I figure I'll get my money's worth out of it for a little while longer before I get a dSLR.
p.s. I really appreciate James' comments about the CCD chips on point-n-shoot cameras and how that relates to # of pixels. I also found Andrew & Dave's comments interesting... about how their old, lower pixel point & shoot shot better than the SX10 (same results for me!).

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Kapil Singh (Kapil152207) 45 pts

October 8, 2009 5:25 AM

Interesting discussion is going on. I am having this camera since two months. and taken about 5000 shots in every mode, indoors outdoors, low shutterspeed, using tripod etc. The main problem is that most of us want the image quality of this camera at par with some DSLR, which is quite impossible. Image quality on this camera is just better than small compact point and shoot cameras. And the thing which hurts more is that the price of this camera is some what close to an entry level DSLR like D40x and canon D 1000. So every one wants the picture quality of that level without doing more research on the camera, and if he dont get that he says its defective or not good to have.

In my opinion it is really good camera but only if controls and settings are perfect. For example in indoors shots, flash range is too important. You can esily raise or lower the flash output according to the distance of subject and get quite good results. Same in outdoors, you can change shutter speed and aperature value to get good pictures. But one thing is sure, you cant get pictures like SLR quality only becasue of sencor used in this camera. AFterall it is a point and shoot camera but advanced and with good features.

The problems starts when we compare the resuts with SLRs which is not good. The plus point of this camera is its settings and controls and healthy zoom with average good quality picutre, which you cannot get in other cameras of this category. So after using it for one year or so, you can easily go for any good DSLR and you will find easy to use that one without any trouble. I am planning same.

The conclusion is that you can never get the picture quality like DSLR with this camera but still it is good for learners and a step forward towards SLRs.

Thanx

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Over-exposed background SX10IS! But not for my compact point-and-shot. Why?

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