Canon Powershot SX30IS
Canon Powershot SX30IS
1
Hey! You should know that Canon has released a newer version of this product: the Canon SX40 HS.
Canon Powershot SX30IS
Editor's Review
Canon's SX30 superzoom sports a whopping 24-840mm lens, the longest focal range on the market. The tradeoff for that huge range seems to be soft image quality, according to expert and user reviews. Since its built around a standard CCD sensor, it lags behind its competitors in terms of high-ISO image quality, speed, and video ability (it "only" shoots 720p video, where most upcoming competitors shoot 1080i or 1080p). For a few months after its release, it was one of the better superzooms out there, and it's still generally a good camera. But now that the market has caught up and the SX30 remains at a stiff $400, we have to knock it down a peg.
The body is built from components typically reserved for dSLRs, like an ultrasonic motor and several special lens elements. The optical image stabilization is said to be the most effective Canon has ever included in a camera, compensating for an equivalent of 4.5 stops' worth of camera shake. If those last couple specs went over your head, trust us when we say that means it's a really good camera. The reviews we've seen so far indicate that the picture quality is quite soft at the tip of the telephoto end, which is frustrating with a camera at this price, but that's a sacrifice that you'll have to make for that kind of zooming capability. It's still one of the best superzooms that money can buy at the moment.
Editor's Review
Canon's SX30 superzoom sports a whopping 24-840mm lens, the longest focal range on the market. The tradeoff for that huge range seems to be soft image quality, according to expert and user reviews. Since its built around a standard CCD sensor, it lags behind its competitors in terms of high-ISO image quality, speed, and video ability (it "only" shoots 720p video, where most upcoming competitors shoot 1080i or 1080p). For a few months after its release, it was one of the better superzooms out there, and it's still generally a good camera. But now that the market has caught up and the SX30 remains at a stiff $400, we have to knock it down a peg.
The body is built from components typically reserved for dSLRs, like an ultrasonic motor and several special lens elements. The optical image stabilization is said to be the most effective Canon has ever included in a camera, compensating for an equivalent of 4.5 stops' worth of camera shake. If those last couple specs went over your head, trust us when we say that means it's a really good camera. The reviews we've seen so far indicate that the picture quality is quite soft at the tip of the telephoto end, which is frustrating with a camera at this price, but that's a sacrifice that you'll have to make for that kind of zooming capability. It's still one of the best superzooms that money can buy at the moment.
Specifications
- 14.1 megapixels
- 35x optical zoom
- Optical (lens-shift) image stabilization
- 24mm wide-angle
- 2.7-inch articulating LCD monitor
- 720p HD video (in-video zooming)
- Automatic and full manual control, including manual focus
- Continuous/Servo auto-focus
- Zoom-framing assist
- DIGIC IV image processor
- Hot-shoe port
- Mini-HDMI output
- Captures to SD/SDHC/SDXC media cards
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Release Date: Sep 30, 2010
Shop for SX30 Accessories
Canon Powershot SX30IS Comments & Questions (write your own!)
retired (nathan ford — 12/10/2011)
cannon powershot sx i30 is more than just a camera it is the camera for a beginner or a advanced photographer . the way the instructions are written it looks confusing ,but you can figure it out and take great pics.
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Manik (09/29/2011)
The new Canon 40x that is hitting the market should be the best camera with all the facilitues like super zoom, HD video, auto and manual control, good sensor etc to satisfy your need. You may take polaroid/ other filter, extra battery, tripod.
Good Luck
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Good Luck
SX-30IS image quality. (Robert J. McCormick — 09/07/2011)
I have had several Canon cameras: A80, S2, SX-10 and two, yes two, SX-30Is's.
Oh, I also have a EOS Rebel XT. Each has literally "worn out". I buy from Best Buy and always get the Black Tie Geek Squad extended warranty. My latest SX30 is a replacement for the first SX30 I bought which became unrepairable after about 7000 images. It began to "hunt" in the zoom mode and zoomed uncommanded. Deemed unrepairable while still under manufacturer's warranty; so, it was replaced and I got to keep my warranty and apply it to the replacement.
Having said all this....I am really disappointed in the optical quality of the new camera. The Kodak Z990 would be my camera of choice when I take a good assessment of what I really want from a camera...i.e. good picture quality without all the gimmicks. Anyone want a good deal on a new SX-30IS?
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Oh, I also have a EOS Rebel XT. Each has literally "worn out". I buy from Best Buy and always get the Black Tie Geek Squad extended warranty. My latest SX30 is a replacement for the first SX30 I bought which became unrepairable after about 7000 images. It began to "hunt" in the zoom mode and zoomed uncommanded. Deemed unrepairable while still under manufacturer's warranty; so, it was replaced and I got to keep my warranty and apply it to the replacement.
Having said all this....I am really disappointed in the optical quality of the new camera. The Kodak Z990 would be my camera of choice when I take a good assessment of what I really want from a camera...i.e. good picture quality without all the gimmicks. Anyone want a good deal on a new SX-30IS?
returned SX30IS (inthesky — 08/14/2011)
I just returned the SX30IS after having it for 11 days (Best Buy requires a return within 14 days). The zoom is amazing. I have a couple neat shots of the moon and it is as good as my telescope. That being said I pretty much took it back because I do not like the AUTO mode. Or even the landscape mode left more to be desired in my opinion.
I like taking nature pics like fields, sky, trees, etc. I also travel and can always depend on the 8mp Kodak my aunt has to take clear, beautiful pictures in AUTO. I borrow hers a lot because the pictures are so true to color. I found with the Canon I had to really mess with the settings to get a picture of a field of corn that looked halfway decent. Changing ISO, etc.
The green came out lackluster. Or fuzzy. I am an amateur but the old Kodak spoiled me in AUTO. Anyone have any suggestions on this? Should I have given it a while longer to get used to the SX30IS? Or was it a good call in returning it.
I have been considering the Sony Cybershot HX100V or the Nikon P500. But I have gotten to the point where I have too much information about them and am stuck. I want clear, true to color pictures and it's a shame this 8mp Kodak takes nicer pictures than the 14.1 Canon!
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I like taking nature pics like fields, sky, trees, etc. I also travel and can always depend on the 8mp Kodak my aunt has to take clear, beautiful pictures in AUTO. I borrow hers a lot because the pictures are so true to color. I found with the Canon I had to really mess with the settings to get a picture of a field of corn that looked halfway decent. Changing ISO, etc.
The green came out lackluster. Or fuzzy. I am an amateur but the old Kodak spoiled me in AUTO. Anyone have any suggestions on this? Should I have given it a while longer to get used to the SX30IS? Or was it a good call in returning it.
I have been considering the Sony Cybershot HX100V or the Nikon P500. But I have gotten to the point where I have too much information about them and am stuck. I want clear, true to color pictures and it's a shame this 8mp Kodak takes nicer pictures than the 14.1 Canon!
RAVI (05/02/2011)
HI SIR!!!
JUST LET ME KNOW WHICH IS THE BEST LONG ZOOM CAMERA?
WHETHER ITS CANON SX30IS, NIKONP500, PANASONIC FZ100, SONY HX100V???
WHICH ONE SHUD I BUY?? WHICH IS HAVING THE BEST PACKAGE???
reply to this comment
JUST LET ME KNOW WHICH IS THE BEST LONG ZOOM CAMERA?
WHETHER ITS CANON SX30IS, NIKONP500, PANASONIC FZ100, SONY HX100V???
WHICH ONE SHUD I BUY?? WHICH IS HAVING THE BEST PACKAGE???
Liam McCabe (05/02/2011)
We rank the Panasonic FZ100 the best. Nikon P500 is second best. Have not heard much about the HX100V yet.
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s3is vs s5is moved to the sx30is (Amanda — 04/12/2011)
I have owned the s3is and the s5is, I love to shoot sports from hockey to lacrosse and some soccer as well. I need the sports feature and a good zoom with quick capture. I have not used the sx30is as of yet. I just purchased it and the game is tomorrow. I loved the s5is but wanted the next upgrade/replacement of the s5is. Will the sx30is do what I am looking for, will I be satisfied, or would you recommend something else. I am concerned and want to be able to return it in the time slot if need be. Please help...thank you!
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by James DeRuvo (04/13/2011)
ideally a Dslr would be the way to go. but if you use the sports setting, prefocus and pan with the action you should be okay ...
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Skip Ferrera (04/02/2011)
Skip (04/02/2011)
I am planing a trip to Alaska soon and considering the Canon SX30 for wildlife photography...I have read all the reviews to date and I am concerned about picture quality at the longer telephoto range. I have an old SP 500 Pentax film camera with 1.5 / 55mm normal,28mm wide angle and 200mm telephoto lenses.Is it possible to purchase a digital body that would work with these (thread mount) auto lenses?
thanks for your help........Great site.
reply to this comment
I am planing a trip to Alaska soon and considering the Canon SX30 for wildlife photography...I have read all the reviews to date and I am concerned about picture quality at the longer telephoto range. I have an old SP 500 Pentax film camera with 1.5 / 55mm normal,28mm wide angle and 200mm telephoto lenses.Is it possible to purchase a digital body that would work with these (thread mount) auto lenses?
thanks for your help........Great site.
Liam McCabe (04/04/2011)
Thanks -- if you already have Pentax lenses, I think you're better off buying a dSLR body, rather than getting a superzoom like the SX30. As you guessed, the image quality doesn't quite compare. And especially for a special trip like Alaska, you'll be happier later when your shots come out well.
But it gets complicated. The SP500 is from the 1960s, as I read, and it uses the old M42 mount -- current Pentax use K mounts. There is a relatively affordable adapter that you can buy:
kremlinoptics.com/catalog/i... allow you to attach your old lenses to new Pentax cameras. I'd recommend either the Pentax K-x or K-r bodies -- both affordable, both offer great image quality.
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But it gets complicated. The SP500 is from the 1960s, as I read, and it uses the old M42 mount -- current Pentax use K mounts. There is a relatively affordable adapter that you can buy:
kremlinoptics.com/catalog/i... allow you to attach your old lenses to new Pentax cameras. I'd recommend either the Pentax K-x or K-r bodies -- both affordable, both offer great image quality.
for a lil help............ (Rakib Jibon — 03/17/2011)
can anyone tell me that is Canon sx30is good for macro mode????? i wanna know about it....
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by James DeRuvo (03/18/2011)
It's not half bad actually. Here's an image - 216.18.212.226/PRODS/SX30IS...
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for a sugg......... (rakib jibon — 03/16/2011)
is sx30is is good for maro mode? Can anyone tell me????? It will be a gr8 help for me.........
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by James DeRuvo (03/16/2011)
You could say that - youtube.com/watch?v=SCVD5Va... has a macro focus rage of 0 - 50 cm
0.0 - 19.7 in.
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0.0 - 19.7 in.
Arnie (03/01/2011)
Is the video stereo sound in the SX30 better or worse than in the SX1 ? I know that the SX1 stereo sound is excellent.
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by James DeRuvo (03/03/2011)
It is stereo. Likely to be quite similar. I've read several reviews and nobody really bags on the audio quality at all, while praising the stereo capability and wind filter option.
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Blurry pictures (Sue — 01/30/2011)
All my action shots are blurry. This is one of the main reasons I bought this camera along with the long zoom.
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clarification on model no. (tom — 01/29/2011)
is the sx30 and sx30is the same ?
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Chris Weigl (01/29/2011)
Yes they're the same camera, some people just leave off the IS at the end.
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Camera for Safari?? ( — 01/02/2011)
I am looking for a camera for safari this summer. Dont want to spend more than $600.00 if I can help it. Would the canon sx30is be a good choice? Any recommendations? I am a novice at camera use. Erin
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Liam McCabe (01/03/2011)
Yeah if your budget is stuck at $600 and you want a new camera, a superzoom like this SX30 is the way to go. This model has the longest zoom out there, but you'll probably be fine with something in the 24x range. That length is great for capturing long-range nature shots. Make sure you get a tripod -- nobody's hands are steady enough to stop blurring at such a telescopic range.
But, there's tradeoff for a huge zoom at an affordable price: image quality. Superzoom image quality, especially from the SX30 or Panasonic FZ100 or FZ40, is solid, especially if you're used to low-cost point-and-shoots. But, for really, really great shots, you might want to consider spending a bit extra on a dSLR and a zoom lens. The K-x with a standard 18-55mm lens runs about $450 these days, and you can grab an 18-200mm zoom lens for another $200. Not as much zoom, but still a good amount (about 11x), for not much more money, but spectacular pictures. Just a few thoughts for you!
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But, there's tradeoff for a huge zoom at an affordable price: image quality. Superzoom image quality, especially from the SX30 or Panasonic FZ100 or FZ40, is solid, especially if you're used to low-cost point-and-shoots. But, for really, really great shots, you might want to consider spending a bit extra on a dSLR and a zoom lens. The K-x with a standard 18-55mm lens runs about $450 these days, and you can grab an 18-200mm zoom lens for another $200. Not as much zoom, but still a good amount (about 11x), for not much more money, but spectacular pictures. Just a few thoughts for you!
viewfinder (mike — 12/30/2010)
Yes, it has a viewfinder.
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Dated pictures (Bill Boyd — 12/17/2010)
are the pictures dated?
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by James DeRuvo (12/18/2010)
IIRc you use postcard mode to attach a date to the images.
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i am confused and unsure... (Umit Edip Duran — 12/11/2010)
first of all, i have a 35mm slr zenit 122, and i love it. and a really compact one,point and shoot kodak c613 for family photos etc.
i was using my zenit for most of the time, but it is sometimes hard for me to capture the thing that i want with it. if 3 out of 36 films are good, then i decide myself as lucky.
so i decided to have a new digital one. because i am travelling a lot because of my job -something like relief organization and mostly i am in non developed countries- , and i want to take photos of people, landscapes and macros. with my zenit, it is impossible to buy films etc etc.
so:
1) i am mostly interested in taking photographs of people, landscapes and macros.
2) My budget, unfortunately, changes from time to time, now, i am planning to spend up to 800 us dollars, but it may shrink to 300-450 us dollars. (also according to your recommendations it will shape-
3) I want to have a digital camera for sure.
4) i think i just need two lenses like 18-55 and 75-300, or one lens like 18-200. i don't know really. i admit i have very little knowledge about lenses...
5) i really don't deal with posters and big prints, i don't want a hasselblad for sure.
6) I will use it mostly outdoors. but sometimes indoors may be applicable also.
7) I can count myself semi-professional, i dont need a hasselblad as i said, but my kodak c613:) and zenit 122 don't help me anymore.
so before i hear for your recommendation, let me tell you about my searches.
Firstly i was thinkin about canon eos450d, at which time i started my search, it was the best for me. but at that time it was so expensive for me, and now, there are newer models. Later i used canon sx5 is, which made me happy with its versatility.
i have no longly nikon experience -just a few tries-, but the shutter sound is better which makes me smile each time so i don't know anything about nikons you can say.
i wasn't interested in hd movies, but the last time i shoot a movie of children playin in a contaminated pond in pakistan, i just took a vga movie with my kodak, and edited, and liked it:).
so it may be useful for me to record hd movies with my camera.
Just before i fount this website, i was in between entry level dslr of canon or nikon -or any other brand i don't know- -which i hope i can get around mostly for $700-800 -
and
hybrid cameras like canon sx30/sx20 or nikon p100 or panasonic z35-z38 or maybe sony or fuji film -you see i am not sure about anything:) - which are around $300-450 - , but i wanted to get some advises from you.
so thank you for your help.
reply to this comment
i was using my zenit for most of the time, but it is sometimes hard for me to capture the thing that i want with it. if 3 out of 36 films are good, then i decide myself as lucky.
so i decided to have a new digital one. because i am travelling a lot because of my job -something like relief organization and mostly i am in non developed countries- , and i want to take photos of people, landscapes and macros. with my zenit, it is impossible to buy films etc etc.
so:
1) i am mostly interested in taking photographs of people, landscapes and macros.
2) My budget, unfortunately, changes from time to time, now, i am planning to spend up to 800 us dollars, but it may shrink to 300-450 us dollars. (also according to your recommendations it will shape-
3) I want to have a digital camera for sure.
4) i think i just need two lenses like 18-55 and 75-300, or one lens like 18-200. i don't know really. i admit i have very little knowledge about lenses...
5) i really don't deal with posters and big prints, i don't want a hasselblad for sure.
6) I will use it mostly outdoors. but sometimes indoors may be applicable also.
7) I can count myself semi-professional, i dont need a hasselblad as i said, but my kodak c613:) and zenit 122 don't help me anymore.
so before i hear for your recommendation, let me tell you about my searches.
Firstly i was thinkin about canon eos450d, at which time i started my search, it was the best for me. but at that time it was so expensive for me, and now, there are newer models. Later i used canon sx5 is, which made me happy with its versatility.
i have no longly nikon experience -just a few tries-, but the shutter sound is better which makes me smile each time so i don't know anything about nikons you can say.
i wasn't interested in hd movies, but the last time i shoot a movie of children playin in a contaminated pond in pakistan, i just took a vga movie with my kodak, and edited, and liked it:).
so it may be useful for me to record hd movies with my camera.
Just before i fount this website, i was in between entry level dslr of canon or nikon -or any other brand i don't know- -which i hope i can get around mostly for $700-800 -
and
hybrid cameras like canon sx30/sx20 or nikon p100 or panasonic z35-z38 or maybe sony or fuji film -you see i am not sure about anything:) - which are around $300-450 - , but i wanted to get some advises from you.
so thank you for your help.
Best Canon Point and Shoot desired...torn between 5 please help (Sara Forbes — 12/06/2010)
I want a point and shoot. I don't care if it's compact, advanced compact, or ultra compact. I'm partial to Canon. I'm torn between the following Powershot cameras the SX30IS, the SX130IS, the SD3500, the SD4500 and the more simple SD1400IS. I don't care if it shoots video or not I have a video camera so I can take or leave on that option. I just want a camera that takes GREAT quality pictures. My son plays football so I'd like to be able to catch some great shots at his games. HELP!!
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Need advice on camera type (Rob Cordonnier — 12/05/2010)
I currently have a Kodak digital camera with 10x zoom capability that is about 5 years old.
What I am hoping to improve upon over my current camera is being able to zoom in on kids at sporting events (on the ball field of basketball court), as well as, in a gymnasium at a x-mas concert or awards presentation.
The 10x zoom does not do good enough. The other issue that I have in the gymnasium is getting the lighting right at a distance. Sometimes the pictures are sort of dark. Probably because of a setting on my camera or something....I am no expert by any stretch.
I am looking at a Nikon P100 and a Canon XS30IS. Can you make a recommendation based on my needs above? Does one camera do better indoors or in low light situations than the other? I like the idea of sticking with a "point and shoot" camera vs. an SLR. Is it possible to get the pictures that I describe above without and SLR? Rob Cordonnier 12/5/2010
reply to this comment
What I am hoping to improve upon over my current camera is being able to zoom in on kids at sporting events (on the ball field of basketball court), as well as, in a gymnasium at a x-mas concert or awards presentation.
The 10x zoom does not do good enough. The other issue that I have in the gymnasium is getting the lighting right at a distance. Sometimes the pictures are sort of dark. Probably because of a setting on my camera or something....I am no expert by any stretch.
I am looking at a Nikon P100 and a Canon XS30IS. Can you make a recommendation based on my needs above? Does one camera do better indoors or in low light situations than the other? I like the idea of sticking with a "point and shoot" camera vs. an SLR. Is it possible to get the pictures that I describe above without and SLR? Rob Cordonnier 12/5/2010
Anupam Dutta (12/06/2010)
Yes, this is exactly what I want to know...a clear comparison between Nikon P 100 vs. Canon SX30IS. Please don't start saying "the former is with 26X zoom while the latter has 35X. so the tele of Canon is much high, that's a positive point for Canon". It is also known that P100 has the the problem of occasional hanging. We want a comparison of Picture quality, tonal perfection, colour Gradient level and sharpness of edges. Can be we really use the full tele of Canon in a cloudy light without having any chromatic aberrations?
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ankit (12/02/2010)
hey i wanted to know which would be a better buy.. SX301S or EOS 1000D?? The later model is a bit cheaper than SX30 and is the part of EOS series from Canon...so i am a little confused. it would be really great if somebody could help me out.
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Liam McCabe (12/02/2010)
They're two different types of cameras, so it really depends on what you're looking for. The SX30 is a super zoom, while the 1000D is a dSLR. Superzooms have really, really long zoom lenses, dSLRs take much, much better pictures. Here's an article we wrote to help you choose which type is better for you:
digitalcamera-hq.com/articl...
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digitalcamera-hq.com/articl...
Odanatid Shutterbug (Michael — 11/30/2010)
One cannot fit any make of any filter onto the fixed lens of the SX20. Don't know about the SX30.
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Yes you can! (Pedro — 12/20/2010)
Lensmate makes an adapter that fits Canon SX30, SX20, SX10 & SX1. It's a simple device that accepts 58mm filters, and under $20. I have one and love it!
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S3IS versues SX30IS (Sonja — 11/26/2010)
I currently own a S3IS and love the pictures it gives me in daylight. Indoors...not so good. However I mainly take action shots of the dogs outdoors and it does real well. Thinking of upgrading. Would it be worth it?
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by James DeRuvo (11/30/2010)
I think it depends. Most snapshots are ideal at 6mp, which is what the S3is enjoys. But if you need better low light performance, then I'd certainly consider it.
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Nikon P100 vs. Canon SX 30 (Anupam Dutta — 11/22/2010)
I did some photography in the era of old Optical SLRs and I used Nikon FE and later Pentax MZ – 50. But I am really a novice in this Digital Camera World. I use wide ranges in zoom as I mostly shoot starry night sky, planets or moon and at daytime, mountains and landscapes from distance. While Nikon P 100 can make good results taking half moon pictures or showing satellites of Jupiter, I am wondering whether Canon SX 30 can do better than Nikon P 100 with its massive 35X zoom or the image quality of Canon SX 30 at long tele – range is too poor with noise and chromatic aberrations.
Should I wait for Nikon to launch their Coolpix model with something 30+X zoom?
Please advise me.
Anupam Dutta
onupam_dutta@yahoo.com
reply to this comment
Should I wait for Nikon to launch their Coolpix model with something 30+X zoom?
Please advise me.
Anupam Dutta
onupam_dutta@yahoo.com
by James DeRuvo (11/23/2010)
Well just remember, the longer the lens the slower it gets. It's not like the DSLR world where you can pay extra for a faster lens. And then there's camera shake. My question is, With those Nikon lenses, why not get a d5000 or a d90 and put them to good use?
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Anupam Dutta (11/23/2010)
Thank you, James for your reply.
Well, if I correctly understand, P 100 has 26X and Canon SX 30 has 35X zoom which are equivalent to 678mm and 840mm at the highest tele point, in terms of our old 35 mm film cameras. I don’t find any Nikkor or Canon tele of that magnitude for dSLR in their webpages, not to speak of the price and size of those lenses, if they exist at all. I used 400mm Nikkor tele with Nikon FE film camera and that was a matter of envy to my friends in those days. Actually, 500 or 600 tele were used by professional sports (cricket) photographers.
I am habituated with tripod and dipod for camera and lens and I am not in action photography also. So using tripod or spending time for taking a single shot is not a matter of concern to me, I am of the days of film cameras!!!
Let me put my point more specifically, is this 35X really 840mm as I understand or something else. How will it work taking the pictures of Venus with phase or Jupiter with satellites?
And finally, as I am a bit biased for Nikon, is Canon really an equivalent to Nikon regarding picture quality, the tonal perfection and resolving power of its zoom lenses at its highest tele point?
Waiting for reply and thanks again for taking patience to read and reply so nicely.
Anupam
reply to this comment
Well, if I correctly understand, P 100 has 26X and Canon SX 30 has 35X zoom which are equivalent to 678mm and 840mm at the highest tele point, in terms of our old 35 mm film cameras. I don’t find any Nikkor or Canon tele of that magnitude for dSLR in their webpages, not to speak of the price and size of those lenses, if they exist at all. I used 400mm Nikkor tele with Nikon FE film camera and that was a matter of envy to my friends in those days. Actually, 500 or 600 tele were used by professional sports (cricket) photographers.
I am habituated with tripod and dipod for camera and lens and I am not in action photography also. So using tripod or spending time for taking a single shot is not a matter of concern to me, I am of the days of film cameras!!!
Let me put my point more specifically, is this 35X really 840mm as I understand or something else. How will it work taking the pictures of Venus with phase or Jupiter with satellites?
And finally, as I am a bit biased for Nikon, is Canon really an equivalent to Nikon regarding picture quality, the tonal perfection and resolving power of its zoom lenses at its highest tele point?
Waiting for reply and thanks again for taking patience to read and reply so nicely.
Anupam
owner sx20is (stan — 11/18/2010)
I own a sx 20IS Great camera, Great audio, no zoom
noise, no lens shatter, and I finally found out it has a video gain control for lower light conditions...
One major problem I find with all these cameras is the manuals, they are not user friendly at all. You get more Camera than they really tell you about.
reply to this comment
noise, no lens shatter, and I finally found out it has a video gain control for lower light conditions...
One major problem I find with all these cameras is the manuals, they are not user friendly at all. You get more Camera than they really tell you about.
Liam McCabe (11/19/2010)
Definitely true on that last point!
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dr surf (11/13/2010)
everyone says the IQ is horrible. the sx10 is better, then sx20. why give this an A if the pix aren't any good? it's like giving a car a top rating because of the paint job; never mind if it runs or handles well.
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Liam McCabe (11/15/2010)
I hear you, but I think the critics are being harsh on the image quality, and aren't taking into account how attractive the feature set is to lots of people. I've seen sample pics, and it's certainly not the best I've seen on a superzoom camera, but it's certainly not horrible. The SX20 has better image quality, yes, but not by a huge margin, not to mention that the SX20 and SX10 are out of production, which means that they're becoming more difficult to find for a good price. The SX30 still takes better pics than most in-production superzooms out there, and you can't discount the fact that it has the largest zoom factor available, which is what a lot of superzoom buyers are looking for. The IQ is pretty soft at the telephoto setting, but there aren't any other cameras that can get to that range, so that factors into it.
Point is, we don't judge a superzoom solely on image quality -- there are dSLRs for a similar price out there, which obviously take a better picture, but folks who visit our site, at least, don't seem as keen on those cameras because they have very limited out-of-the-box versatility with the kit lenses and aren't as easy to use.
Everybody's entitled to their opinion, and there are plenty of sites out there that agree with you -- that's fine. A lot of sites judge absolute quality, we judge relative quality, because people usually come to us to find a camera to buy, not to debate the merits of various cameras. That's our niche. We judge superzooms against other superzooms, and this, as far as we can tell now, is one of the top models out there. We're constantly re-evaluating camera grades. If we keep hearing negative things about the camera, the grade will drop. But thank you for your feedback, it's always appreciated.
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Point is, we don't judge a superzoom solely on image quality -- there are dSLRs for a similar price out there, which obviously take a better picture, but folks who visit our site, at least, don't seem as keen on those cameras because they have very limited out-of-the-box versatility with the kit lenses and aren't as easy to use.
Everybody's entitled to their opinion, and there are plenty of sites out there that agree with you -- that's fine. A lot of sites judge absolute quality, we judge relative quality, because people usually come to us to find a camera to buy, not to debate the merits of various cameras. That's our niche. We judge superzooms against other superzooms, and this, as far as we can tell now, is one of the top models out there. We're constantly re-evaluating camera grades. If we keep hearing negative things about the camera, the grade will drop. But thank you for your feedback, it's always appreciated.
a novice photographer (Ankit — 11/11/2010)
i cant talk about the technical details of the camera but i really like this camera, you can see some sample snaps...
picasaweb.google.com/ankit0...
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picasaweb.google.com/ankit0...
Liam McCabe (11/11/2010)
Thanks for sharing! This kind of comment is the most helpful.
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What's dslr? (L. Brooks — 11/07/2010)
At the risk of sounding ignorant (which, regarding cameras, I am) I'd like to know what dslr means and if there's an advantage to this type lens over another. I'm looking for an extended zoom camera to use mainly for children's events. I'd like the extra zoom but quality and stabilization are important to me as well. Can anybody help with explanation and suggestions?
Thanks!!!
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Thanks!!!
Liam McCabe (11/08/2010)
dSLR is a type of camera -- digital single-lens reflex. There are a whole list of reasons why dSLRs are better than extended zooms, but they're expensive. Even if you get a low-end dSLR like the Pentax K-x (about the same price as this SX30, depending on sale prices), it will take much better shots and perform much more quickly. The problem is that the features on a low-end dSLR are limited, and unless you're ready to spend a few hundred dollars on an additional zoom lens, you're stuck with the 3x zoom range of the lens that's included with the camera body. Here's a guide we did to help clear it up a little more for you:
digitalcamera-hq.com/articl...
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digitalcamera-hq.com/articl...
what is wrong with the Canon SX 30 ISs' exposure metering or is it me? (Paul — 11/04/2010)
I recently purchased a Canon SX30 point and shoot and took it back to Best Buy the very next day. I wanted to give it an honest try in the field and i thought it failed miserably. I tried several ways to let it redeem itself by trying the "vivid" mode and so on and so forth. The photos were all washed out and very overexposed. I am used to my Sony Cybershot DSC-H7 which takes amazing photos. Rich colors, good values and sharp! Will someone please let me know if I just don't know how to operate this camera and if not, how do i get sharp, vivid photos? It is as if the Canon camera couldnt read values and how to expose on the "P" setting.
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by James DeRuvo (11/10/2010)
The SX30 does shoot adequate images, but I do agree that the colors are some what muted. But looking at images from another model in the H series, the colors are about the same.
I would recommend giving your manual a good through reading. This will help you understand how the model is designed and how it works.
reply to this comment
I would recommend giving your manual a good through reading. This will help you understand how the model is designed and how it works.
Igor (11/04/2010)
Hi, First of all, congrats on this amazing website! I'm amazed with the ammount of information you can find here, great work! I am about to go on a trip to Norway and I'm looking to get a new camera and kind of narrowed down to getting something along the lines of this SX30 or the FZ100. Which one would you say it's the best option? I'm more interested in image quality and good video. I know a DSLR would be the best way to go but that's not an option now. Thanks!
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by James DeRuvo (11/04/2010)
I think the colors are slightly warmer with the FZ100, quite frankly. But at higher ISO settings, it invites more noise to the party and it affects the clarity. Go with the SX30.
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Shiv (11/03/2010)
M H Shiv, India -- just want to know: whether this cam is available in India? and can anybody compare it with nikon P100 or Nikon d3000... am not sure whether to go with normal cam or digital SLR. PLEASE SUGGEST.
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by James DeRuvo (11/04/2010)
According to Canon India's site - yes, it is. As for comparison, it's rather new, but imaging-resource.com is a great site for comparing cameras side by side.
The Nikon D3000 has better color while the P100 has flatter color. This places the SX30 square in the middle.
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The Nikon D3000 has better color while the P100 has flatter color. This places the SX30 square in the middle.
kumar (10/31/2010)
can u tell me Is it good for LOw light condition,Nightshot, fireworks photoes (Hand held only)Sports action hand held and video with stereo sound can i use full zoom in video the quality of video is good or should I select Nikon s8100 pl advise
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Liam McCabe (11/01/2010)
The Nikon S8100 is designed to handle those situations better than this. The SX30 is not particularly suited for low-lighting.
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J Green (10/11/2010)
I am considering this camera. Is there info about shutter lag. I currently have a Cybershot. Thanks!
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by James DeRuvo (10/12/2010)
Every point and shoot camera has shuitter lag, it's a way of life. However, first impressions are that the shutter lag is "minimal." That's vague and it's simply too soon to tell.
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Zoom/Quality for Action golf shots (Dianna Stanley — 10/08/2010)
I"m looking for a camera to shoot golf photos to sell. I need zoom because I can't get close, but picture quality is a must so I can sell the shots. Is this a good camera for this?
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by James DeRuvo (10/09/2010)
If you're going to make a living at it, I really recommend going DSLR for a variety of reasons. 1) no shutter lag 2) lens availability and speed 3) better quality glass in the lenses 4) depth of field 5) video 6) better processors and mutiple ones for better color and contrast 7) RAW (uncompressed) capability ... Well you get the idea. There's a reason why sports photographers aren't using point and shoots. Take a look at the T2i.
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Professional use of Canon SX30is (Warren Lyons — 08/02/2011)
On a number of sites, owners or prospective owners of the Canon SX30is have enquired as to whether or not it is suitable for professional use. Having used this camera on numerous occasions over the following months, I can say the following; you would be in deep doggie-doo if you tried to do a society wedding or photoshoot for Vogue or Better Homes and Gardens magazine with this model. On the other hand, it would be just perfect for supermarket tabloid or Law Enforcement/Homeland security use.
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Liam McCabe (10/04/2010)
I've received a number of emails asking whether this camera shoots RAW format. Rather than responding individually, I'm posting here. The SX30 does not shoot in RAW mode. When a camera does shoot RAW, we make sure to specifically mention that in the specs section. No RAW here.
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Can I expect a review of this camera any time soon please? (prashb — 10/01/2010)
Hey,
I am looking forward to buy this camera. As you have mentioned I too am concerned about the image quality (which by the way is the most important aspect that I am looking for in my camera) when you have such telescopic lens. Hopefully if this camera can deliver the satisfactory (image quality even at 35X) performance, I would definitely love it, and buy it.
I am eagerly waiting for a detailed review of this camera. If possible can you please review this camera revealing the pro's and con's of it soon?
Thanks.
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I am looking forward to buy this camera. As you have mentioned I too am concerned about the image quality (which by the way is the most important aspect that I am looking for in my camera) when you have such telescopic lens. Hopefully if this camera can deliver the satisfactory (image quality even at 35X) performance, I would definitely love it, and buy it.
I am eagerly waiting for a detailed review of this camera. If possible can you please review this camera revealing the pro's and con's of it soon?
Thanks.
Liam McCabe (10/01/2010)
We would love to, it's just a matter of when Canon will send it to us for a review. We have requested it for a review, so it's in their hands.
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prashb (10/02/2010)
Thanks. I am eager to see the review.
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prashb (10/10/2010)
Do you guys have any idea when you will get the camera from Canon for the review?
I am looking forward to buy this n I can't wait to have your review.
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I am looking forward to buy this n I can't wait to have your review.
Liam McCabe (10/13/2010)
No unfortunately we don't have a firm date or even a rough idea of when we'll get this camera for review, sorry. As I said last week, it's up to Canon, and we have no news from them. Thanks for your interest though.
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image quality (Mike — 12/30/2010)
Image quality is average. The 14 mp does not make it any sharper. If you are looking for sharp images I would not recommend this camera.
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Maidy (09/30/2010)
Just started looking at the SX30IS -it does not mention or can I see from the pics a viewfinder only mention of a LCD monitor- does it not have a viewfinder?
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by James DeRuvo (10/01/2010)
It has an electronic viewfinder, which is a tiny little LCD screen. Not a true viewfinder per see, but you do see through the lens.
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Maidy (10/01/2010)
Does this create a problem composing your shot, or sunlight interfering ? I've always preferred a viewfinder to look through - hate the LCD screens unless I'm shooting my sculptures which are indoors.
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Liam McCabe (10/04/2010)
Again, there is an electronic viewfinder. It's not a mirror-based viewfinder, but it is a viewfinder. You see the same thing that you'd see on the big LCD screen, but in an eyepiece so that the sun doesn't interfere.
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zoom by feet (dee chesney — 09/25/2010)
I am looking for a camera with a nice zoom for football/basketball games. I am trying to figure out how many feet that does x20, x 30 etc. gets me.
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Chris Weigl (09/26/2010)
The zoom ratio (eg 20x, 30x) actually doesn't tell you how far the zoom goes out. What you want to look at is the 35mm equivalent. For example, the SX30IS zooms out to a ridiculous 840mm (this is way more than most professional sports shooters use). For comparison, the Panasonic F100 goes out to 600mm. While this sounds promising, you're going to have real problems shooting basketball with either camera. Indoor sporting events usually have too low a light level to capture sports using a digital compact. You'd need to use a DSLR with fast prime/zoom lens to get adequate shots.
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question about using a tri-pod (Shannon — 09/24/2010)
I'm assuming you can mount this camera on a tri-pod? Please confirm.
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Liam McCabe (09/24/2010)
Yes there's a tripod threading on the bottom, I believe it's metal too, rather than plastic. You'll definitely need a tripod if you're trying to use the full zoom.
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Y L Yeoh (09/24/2010)
Canon Powershot SX30 IS has the features and functions of thier DSLR counterparts. I eager to get one. Hope the price is rirht. How soon it arrives at the shore of Malaysia? From YL Yeoh
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Liam McCabe (09/24/2010)
It has some features and functions of a dSLR, but just keep in mind that the picture quality will be closer to a point and shoot than to a dSLR. Not sure about a release date for Malaysia though.
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Canon SX20is versus SX30is (Steve Batchelor — 09/17/2010)
I am looking for a camera to video shoot at a concert next month...I have seen video shot with the SX20IS and they were great...I am wondering if the SX30IS would be that much better...I will be sitting 11 rows from the stage so I don't think telephoto will be that much of a problem...thanks
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Liam McCabe (09/17/2010)
Hi Steve -- it's too early to tell since they just announced it, but I don't think it's going to be notably better. I'm concerned about that lens...that's an absurd amount of telephoto, not sure that the clarity will be there at such a long distance. Again, this is just speculation, but for now I'd say you're safe with the SX20, excellent superzoom camera.
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Canon SX20is versus SX30is (Steve Batchelor — 09/23/2010)
Liam, Thanks for answering my question...I have read and was wondering if the increased pixels, from 12.1 to 14.1 would adversely affect low light situations...I am pretty much a novice and any and all help will be appreciated...If you have any suggestions for filming video at a concert I would love to hear them...Thanks again...Steve
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video (gill — 10/26/2010)
I bought this camera three days before and its a gem of the lot thats present in the market right now. But, its P&S, so dont compare to the big brothers, DSLRs. Video mode is quite good. Thanks to a quieter zoom during movie mode that zooming sound is near absent. Further, there is IS in movie mode to minimise the disturbances due to hand shakes.
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Canon Powershot SX30IS Reviews
Canon Powershot SX30IS Reviews by Digital Camera-HQ Users
- 4.0 out of 5
all in one
(caner — 11/01/2010)
hi guys,
i own this camera for a week now. it is all in one, super zoom camera that can satisfy most unprofessional users. shots are better than a compact camera, but do not compare it to a dslr. from macro to telephoto and 720p hd video,gives you all you want. if you want more, buy a dslr (costs more of course) one bad thing: it has a small ccd sensor, it would be better with a cmos sensor. manual zoom is a bit slow. ( or am i? lol).
- 2.0 out of 5
Same old Canon problem - Chromatic Abberation.
(humpty — 10/12/2010)
I used this camera for 2 days, it's the same time it took to sell it.
It has the same problem as all cheaper Canon zooms, the dreaded purple
fringes on buildings.
I should have seen the samples in the dpreview forums before I bought it.
oh well.
