CANON

Pre-Photokina 2006:     Canon has finally announced the long-awaited new G series compact to replace the G6 (launched August 2004). The PowerShot G7 features a new Digic III processor, 10 megapixel (1/1.8-inch) CCD and a 6x (35-200mm equiv.) image stabilized zoom lens. The G7 also sports a hot shoe, face detection software and ISO settings up to 1600. Disappointingly what it doesn't have is a raw mode, which appears to have been completely dropped by Canon for its compact models - presumably to protect the sales of entry-level digital SLRs.

PowerShot G7: Canon's most complete compact yet

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 14 September, 2006: Canon today launches the eagerly awaited PowerShot G7. Following the celebrated PowerShot G6, the classically styled PowerShot G7 boasts an advanced feature set that includes 10.0 Megapixel resolution, a 6x optically image stabilised zoom lens and Canon's new DIGIC III image processor.
DIGIC III delivers rapid performance with improved image quality and incorporates two new Canon technologies - Face Detection AF/AE and advanced Noise Reduction, which extend the camera's low-noise performance to ISO 1600. The high-resolution 2.5” LCD screen has a wide viewing angle and anti-glare coating for easier image framing and playback. Furthering the potential for creative photography, the PowerShot G7 is equipped with hot shoe support for Canon Speedlite flash units and is compatible with a range of optional converter lenses.
PowerShot G7 will be available from early October.

The PowerShot G7 features:

  • 10.0 Megapixels
  • 6x optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer and SR coating
  • DIGIC III and iSAPS with Advanced Noise Reduction and Face Detection AF/AE
  • 2.5” high-resolution LCD with wide viewing angle and anti-glare coating
  • ISO 1600 for flash-free, low light shooting
  • Ergonomic design with dedicated ISO and Multi Control dials for fast, easy operation
  • 25 shooting modes including full manual control and 2 custom settings
  • Extra telephoto reach with Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom
  • Hot shoe support for Canon Speedlite flashes and optional lens accessories

“The PowerShot G7 brings a new level of performance and usability to the G series,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “By introducing our DIGIC III image processor and new technologies such as Face Detection AF/AE, Canon continues to raise the benchmark for digital compact cameras."

Image Quality and Optics

The PowerShot G7 delivers the image quality and optical performance demanded by advanced photographers. A 10.0 Megapixel sensor captures enough fine detail to ensure large photo quality prints with added cropping flexibility. The fast f/2.8 (W) – f/4.8 (T) 6x optical zoom lens (35-210mm focal length, 35mm equivalent) incorporates optical Image Stabilizer technology to counteract the effects of camera shake, allowing the camera to be used at slower shutter speeds in low light conditions. The lens configuration consists of 9 elements in 7 groups and includes a double-sided aspherical lens element to counteract common lens distortions. The addition of Canon’s SR lens coating – a first for Canon's digital compact camera range – significantly reduces the problem of ghosting and virtually eliminates chromatic aberration.
Face Detection AF/AE
For portrait and group shots, the PowerShot G7 is equipped with Face Detection AF/AE, a new Canon technology that automatically detects up to nine faces within a frame and sets the optimum focus and exposure accordingly. If there is more than one face in a frame Face Detection AF/AE is able to determine the face or faces intended to be the main focus. The system operates at the same speed as Canon’s established 9-point AiAF system, which it automatically reverts to if no face detection is required or intended.
Accessories
In addition to Canon Speedlite support, the PowerShot G7 is compatible with a range of optional lens accessories, including wide (0.75x) and tele (2.0x) converter lenses. A waterproof case allows for shooting at depths of up to 40 metres.

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