Canon Ixus 50 Digital Camera [5MP, 3x Optical Zoom]

I got this over the ixus 700 since this was smaller and I thought the 5mp quality would be enough, but I admit wondering whether it was a compromise of image quality and battery life for size at the time. Even when it arrived I was surprised with just how small it was. It is amazing in this respect, especially if style is important to you.

Image quality: I find 5mp more than enough in terms of pixels. Image quality is good, and given the size of the camera is impressive. Red eye is evident occasionally, but this may be an issue for many ultra compact digital cameras. Supplied software allows photo editing of this if desired. The flash seems fine. As a snapshot camera I am extremely pleased.

Battery life is possibly the weakest aspect of the camera I can find, although not bad. I bought an extra battery with mine, which I would still recommend. I like the fact this ultra compact camera still has a view finder, so the LCD display can be used sparingly if battery life must be preserved. In this case the manual claims approx 400 photos can be taken on one battery. Unfortunately a low battery life indicator is only displayed a few minutes before the battery runs out.

Menus are very easy to use. I purchased a high speed memory card, and whether this makes a difference when saving photos/viewing I am not sure. Start up time is very quick, and when taking photos I have not noticed shutter lag at all. Quick easy operation is a great part of this camera.

Other points? No case included. Software is included, as are cables to link the camera directly to pc or tv to view photos, and a battery charger. Would recommend getting a high speed high capacity memory card, as even with a 1Gb memory card video at full quality (640x480 30fps) can be recorded for just 8 minutes - although granted it is a camera not video camera. Sound recordings can be attached to each photo using the inbuilt microphone. The 2" LCD is great.

An excellent camera, that is perfect if looking for a very small camera that looks great and has good image quality. An extra battery, memory card and case are definitely worth considering.

I was very pleased with the quality of the shots, and the ability of the auto functions. Sometimes the camera disagreed about what I wanted to focus on, but by taking a few shots, or choosing the best focus mode can solve this! Actually the flexible range of choices in modes, photo size and image quality are really good.

Overall, the Canon ixus 50 is responsive and feels good to use. After each shot, the high clarity of the screen on the back really helps to assess if you have the photo you want.

As a 'semi-pro' photographer this camera fits into my collection as a convenient-to-carry compact, and a great MACRO. I've captured some seriously impressive close-up shots with the digital macro mode. Have also taken very pleasing photos of sunset, portraits and organic farm pigs!

The ixus 50 has a nice extra called 'high speed movie' which takes 60 frames per second, to avoid blur.

The only thing letting down the Canon ixus 50 is the battery. I've run the camera flat after only a couple of hours work. At only 760mAh the battery is poor compared to some others - look at the Casio Exilim's Z55 camera's battery providing 1230mAh in comparison.

Looks like I'll have to fork out for a spare! Oh well, it's smaller and lighter than a pair of AA bateries, it's not so bad to carry one about! Another MUST is an extra (larger) memory card - but that is always the case with digital cameras.

The camera itself is fantastic. Hence the 5 stars.

Thanks!