PowerShot G1 X
PowerShot G1 X
Canon’s latest G series camera has a huge new 14.3MP CMOS sensor that is almost as large as that found in EOS cameras using APS-C size sensors. Is this Canon’s answer to the flock of mirrorless models that have been introduced from other brands? One of the key characteristics of mirrorless cameras that appeals to consumers is the small size and the new PowerShot G1 X is only marginally bigger than the PowerShot G12 model that will stay in the line-up.
Canon’s DIGIC 5 processor first used in the PowerShot S100 and a 4x optical zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 are the other key elements. Looking at the lens, and you see the focal length reported as 15.1 – 60.4 mm, but due to the smaller than full frame CMOS sensor this equates to a more useful 28-112mm effective focal length. Focal length aside the lens should give good much greater depth of field separation than the PowerShot G12 since depth of field depends on actual focal length. Im pleased to see the optical viewfinder being retained and the variangle LCD screen. Following in the style of the G-series cameras there’s a regular flash hotshoe and I’ll exepct it to offer the same functionality as the other recent G-series models, full wireless flash support for one and since this camera must surely not be using a focal plane shutter then flash sync at almost any speed up to the 1/4000 will make for some interesting flash photography options.
You would expect video, and Full HD is present with onboard stereo mics, no external mic input, and you will be able to zoom the lens while recording movies. If you have stocks of the batteries for your older PowerShot G12 then you will need more new batteries for this camera, the new NB-10L provides up to 250 shots (CIPA test method).
Could this be a great divers camera?
Considering the available information on the new camera I am thinking it might make a very good camera to use underwater. Since it can be quite dark under the waves then the improved light gathering of the big pixels on the PowerShot G1 X CMOS sensor and the relatively fast f/2.8 aperture at the wide-angle setting of the zoom makes this an interesting camera for underwater use. Add in that Canon has also got a dedicated waterpoof case WP-DC44 and it’s designed for use up to 40 metres under the surface. Normally underwater cases for an SLR cost as much if not more than the camera, the underwater case for the PowerShot G11 and G12 cameras is currently retailing for £175 in the UK and I’d expect the case for the PowerShot G1 X to be similar.
I hope to get to see the new PowerShot G1 X this weekend at the SWPP convention in London where Canon is exhibiting.
PowerShot G1 X CMOS sensor
London, UK, 9th January 2012 – Canon today introduces the PowerShot G1 X – a revolutionary new compact camera with a large CMOS sensor, designed to produce DSLR levels of image quality and control in a highly portable metal body. Created for professional and serious photographers, the PowerShot G1 X creates a prestigious new category at the top of Canon’s legendary G-series line-up, and redefines the performance achievable from a compact camera….
see the [full release] on Canon’s site
[PowerShot G1 X technology explanation (pdf)]
- Canon Europe
Additional PowerShot G1 X images
What do you think, should Canon have produced a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses or is this a better way to produce a flexible camera with lots of features for photographers and not sacrifice image quality?