While the Canon PowerShot G16 is not the latest model of the series (it’s the Powershot G7 X, though somebody may object) it is still a great performing camera, and still worth a review.
Carl Garrard of Photographic Central felt the pulse of this little, WiFi-enabled compact camera, which was released to the public in August 2013. Let’s start with the core specs:
- 12.1 Megapixel 1/1.7″ CMOS Sensor
- Canon 5x Optical Zoom Lens (28-140mm)
- Optical Zoom Viewfinder and 3.0″ LCD
- Full HD 1080/60p Video
- DIGIC 6 Image Processing Engine
- Enhanced Wi-Fi Capabilities
- Continuous Shooting at 9.3 fps
- Intelligent IS Image Stabilization
- ISO 12800 and Canon HS SYSTEM
As you can see these are respectable specifications. You do not always need the newest gear, especially not if “older” cameras still perform very good (well, it’s just a bit more than a year old, but in this industry it is a long time). Carl highlights the features he liked most:
- A fast lens with an excellent all purpose range and macro capabilities that gives you a surprising amount of photographic creativity and control for a compact camera
- Extremely effective optical image stabilization ( I shoot hand held easily down to 1/5th second with no blur) in stills and video
- A dual axis electronic level that you can calibrate (excellent option Canon)
- Good low light image quality by any standard (and improved over G15)
- Superb build quality (and improved over G15)
- Excellent ergonomics (grip/placement of controls, balance, again improved over G15)
- Excellently implemented and placed external controls
- Blazingly fast autofocus (much improved over G15)
- Raw Files (Supported by popular convertors)
- Excellent battery life (360 shots per charge or more)
- Included AF assist lamp
- Excellent glass covered LCD screen
- Pocketable (just)
- Affordable price compared to other serious compacts (as the price dropped)
- Comfortable spacious grip on the front and rear (better than G15)
- Optical viewfinder when you need one
- Quick start up and shut down, and really fast overall operation (image scrolling, accessing menus, in camera development, etc.)
- Hot shoe and fast sync speeds with external flashes
- Mostly customizable menu system
- Two custom menu settings on the mode dial (use them!)
- Addition of XFine Jpegs, and some NR control of high ISO shots (low to high)
- New Night Display Function (turns down LCD and changes color so you don’t blind yourself during night shooting)
If you are interested in this camera I suggest you have a look at Carl Garrard’s in-depth review, it’s really covering every aspect you may want to learn about. Sample shot are also provided.
The Powershot G16 sells for $449 on Amazon | B&H Photo | Adorama. Be aware that there is $50 instant discount that will expire on January 3.
[via
Photographic Central]
