The New IXUS - a More Sensitive Camera Means Better Pictures

Some of our most important memories and magic moments take place in the dark - a night out with friends, a breathtaking sunset, a wedding reception - and these low-light situations can make it particularly difficult to take photographs. Flash leads to over exposed, washed out faces, red eyes and dark backgrounds. Taking photos without flash often means blurry and shaky images.


Digital Camera Sensitivity : ISO


Traditionally, ISO (International Organization for Standardization) measure a film's sensitivity to light - the higher the ISO, the more sensitive the film. In digital cameras, ISO is set by camera, changing the sensitivity of the digital camera's image sensor. Pictures taken at a lower ISO produce images with the least amount of "noise" (which occurs when the image sensor captures a colour pixel incorrectly due to poor lighting conditions). However, lower ISO requires better lighting and longer exposure times and slower shutter speeds.


Choosing the right ISO settings

1. AUTO ISO - if you're unsure about the best ISO, most digital cameras have the ability to automatically pick the best sensitivity for the present light conditions.


2. ISO 80 - delivers high quality pictures but usually requires bright outdoor lighting; great for landscapes and outdoor portraits.


3. ISO 100 - requires bright lighting conditions, okay for slightly overcast conditions.


4. ISO 200 - for cloudy and overcast conditions.


5. ISO 400 - this is the minimum ISO for taking indoor photographs.


6. ISO 800 and up - for dim lighting conditions; captures good pictures in low light conditions but can create a bit of noise in your images.

Introducing the Canon IXUS 300 HS


Canon's created a camera that understands your needs, with its unique high sensitivity system that lets you take photos in low light situations - it's a more sensitive camera for better pictures.

The new IXUS 300 HS offers the most advanced technology to be found in digital compact cameras and the best in the Canon IXUS range. Its state of the art highly sensitive image sensor is combined with a bright f/2.0 lens to let in more light so you can take great photos. With a high sensitivity image sensor, the IXUS 300 HS reduces the amount of noise at all ISO speeds. Meanwhile, it offers advanced aperture and shutter controls to allow greater flexibility and control over your images. 


Other Features:

1. Advanced TruCapture Technology - Canon combines Intelligent Auto for easy picture capture with an advanced Image Stabiliser and its exclusive DiG!C 4 Image Processor to produce brilliant true-to-life colours.


2. HD Video Capture Mode - make the most of your HDTV. The new IXUS also lets you edit the colour settings during capture for some unique video effects.


3. Super Slow Motion - capture HD movie in slow motion to heighten the drama and effect of the moment.


4. 3.8x optical zoom with optical image stabilisation - lets you get close to the action.


5. Fun scene modes - have fun and get creative with the Miniature and Fish Eye modes.


6. Large LCD screen - the 28mm wide angle LCD screen lets you review your images so you can make sure your shots are picture perfect.


7. 10-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor.


8. Slim appealing design - the IXUS 300 HS has beautifully-crafted curves, texture and a modern look that appeals to a design-conscious user.