When buying a camera, many people tend to go for the most impressive looking one that they can afford. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, many people over-equip themselves for their needs. It seems something of a waste to spend tens of thousands of Rands on camera equipment when you’re mainly going to be taking snapshots. Additionally, people tend to ignore some of the pocket camera models that are available, which are – when all is said and done – very capable cameras indeed.
Canon have shown this time and again with their various lines. The Ixus line, for example, is far more versatile and capable than one might initially assume. And with the release of the new Ixus 1000HS, it has become even better.
This small, unassuming camera is stylish and compact.
But it’s small size and elegant lines belie a lot of power hidden inside. It delivers pictures at 10 megapixels (why most people would want more than that is a debate for another time) which is more than enough picturepower for the average and above average user. This is supported by an optical zoom of up to 10x which, while not particularly potent, will still introduce quite a lot of versatility to the camera.
It takes around 2 seconds for the camera to go from off to taking pictures, which is nice and fast (something which Canon just keeps getting right every time). It can fire high speed burst photographs as well, which may come in handy for capturing action, and is a rather capable low-light camera, too. It has an ISO range that goes up to 3200 ISO, which means that it is going to work well when light conditions are less than desirable.
Automated features also make taking pictures quick and easy.
In addition, the Ixus 1000HS can also record video, including super-slow motion video, which is perhaps a bit of a gimmick where the average user is concerned, but is still great fun to play with.
This camera uses a proprietary, rechargeable battery, and makes use of SD cards for storage.
This is a camera that is ideal for those who need a speedy device, but aren’t going to delve into the nitty-gritty of playing with apertures and shutter speeds. While this does remove some control from the photographer, it isn’t really intended for those people that would play with photographic outcomes.
This is a camera for the “masses”, and as such, it delivers excellent picture quality, without being overly difficult to use. In fact, all of the Ixus 1000 HS’ functions are easy to get to, and the user can quickly and effectively make any desired changes.
The Ixus 1000 HS’ rugged construction and handy size makes it a perfect travelling companion, and its aesthetic would look equally at home on a hike or at a black-tie function. It offers more than the average pocket camera (as one would expect from Canon) and is reliable, accurate and not too finicky. If you are looking for a camera that is perfect for quick pics , snapshots and great video, this is one you want to seriously consider.
At A Glance:
Not meant for high end users, this is a great camera for the ‘masses’.
Manufacturer: Canon
Distributor: Canon
Online: www.canon.com
Tech Specs:
- 10 megapixel
- 10x Optical zoom
- ISO 3200
- Full HD
- 3” LCD
- Image stabiliser
Pros:
- Small size
- Powerful
- Video function
- Fast
- Rugged
Cons:
• Not for ‘power users’
Popularity: 1% [?]





