Canon Powershot G11 Reviews: Digital Compact Camera

+ The size is just right for me, a balance between 'handle-ability' and 'compactness'. The lens is a cracker; images are pin-sharp, right up to ISO800, and usable to ISO3200. The G11's capabilities encourage experimentation, with pleasing and often surprising results. The G11 is proving to be a very good alternative to my fully equipped SLR, which was a heavy lump. The controls are, in the main, intuative; when needed the 'print yourself'' manual is comprehensive. The LCD displays are bright and bold. The controls are comprehensive and logically organised. When using the optical viewfinder, for instance, all are securely locked except the 'Function Selector', 'Exposure Compensation' and 'ISO setting' dials, which can be readily adjusted to take account of changes in light levels and subject. The ability to shoot in RAW is fundamental to what the G11 is all about. The supplied RAW processing software is a great bonus.

- Those of us who use spectacles, especially 'bi-' or 'varifocal' may find the LCD difficult to use as a viewfinder at certain angles and 'arms lengths'. The optical viewfinder sees slightly less than the sensor, and doesn't contain any information; that being confined to a red and green light alongside the viewfinder and within peripheral vision. The closeness and size of the controls may defeat those with large hands.

+ This camera has a solid well made feel to it, the image quality is as most other reviews will tell you very good.the controls are well laid out but a little to easy to knock when shooting,the adjustable screen aids shooting at differant angles and in bright sunlight and is a welcome return to the g series.the zoom range is ok and will cover most of your needs. although its not the most compact of cameras its still easy to carry around with you and the size and feel make it it a pleasure to use.if your after a compact that will give top quality results this should be on your list.

- The controls are a bit to easy to knock when in the heat of shooting.
Can be pricey so do shop around.

+ Very versatile camera with a good quality end result, Flip over screen very good and back up of a viewfinder good too.

- Impossible to hold camera correctly. Ergonomicaly it's a disaster. You cannot hold it steadily and securely without your lower thumb activating the controls and settings. Being a fairly heavy camera it has to be held securely.
No means of locking off the controls which are far too easily disturbed.