Canon PowerShot S1 IS 3.2 Megapixel Bridge Camera

I have enjoyed this camera for more than five years. I love the image quality and zoom features. Wish the startup and refresh rate were faster, though... Like a previous reviewer, I also began having problems with my S1. Note, "some" problems may be associated with third-party chip bonding process relating to the CCD (Image sensor). Most camera makers (including Canon) have responded to such issues via their customer support web sites.

I bought this camera to have a few more settings than a smaller point and shoot model. The S1 IS pictures have certainly received raves from people who view them, who are using higher end SLR digital models. My purchase has never been regretted other than the battery life being extremely poor. Once I sorted out battery usage and saving power things are better. Compact camera, great pictures and easy to use make me wonder if I would ever buy a different camera in the future. The only reason would be to move up to a larger Canon model.

I was a roll film SLR user and purchased a point and shot digital. I was frustrated every time I used the camera. I recently purchased a PowerShot and I feel that I am back to doing photography again! The camera preforms above my expectations and I do not have to carry a camera bag with a light meter and gray card, rolls of film, an extra camera body to change from B&W to color, or the extra lenses. I have everything I need in one camera.

Camera was bought for underwater work. Expensive housing purchased. Used batteries extremely fast. Only lithiums would last any time at all. After about two years use, the camera stopped providing anything but scatter in picture taking mode. It just doesn't work at all.Very disappointing as I've been told that it would cost more to fix it that to buy a new one.

I have had this camera for nearly five years, and I still get a lot of use out of it. Although it consumes batteries quickly -- even the Canon rechargables -- it is a great camera that meets all my photography needs. The multiple settings are very handy, and the image quality is wonderful. The camera itself is small enough to toss in my camera bag and go, and I don't have to carry along any extra equipment either. It is sturdy and long lasting, and continues to perform despite being subjected to subzero temperatures and several falls on the trail. When I need a new camera -- which probably won't be for another five years, because this one is so good -- I will certainly buy a Canon camera.