I’ve just received a new Canon SD960 IS digital camera to play around with. This is Canon’s new 12.1 Megapixel ultra compact digital camera that also happens to do full 720p HD videos at 30fps. The unit is about the same size as the Flip MinoHD but offers far better video quality and the ability to take high quality photos. With its built in 28mm wide angle lens with optical image stabilizer, the SD960 IS maybe the only camera a blogger needs to take both pictures and videos.
Because I only had the camera for a day, this will be a quickie review. I may do a more in depth review at a later date. From my short time with the SD960, I can tell you that it’s a near perfect blogger digital camera. It’s small and compact like the Flip Mino and takes amazing photos and even more amazing videos. The built in wide angle lens with optical image stabilizer is what seals the deal. It makes filming yourself so much easier. You’re able to get your entire head into the frame instead of just your face. The built in optical image stabilizer mean no shaky videos like you can get with the Flip if you don’t have a steady hand.
The camera even has a 2.8″ 16:9 wide angle display so you can preview your videos without any black bars. You’ll see black bar if you take photos in 4:3 mode. However, I’ve switched to 16:9 photos a long time ago. You won’t get the maximum 12.1 Megapixel when taking wide photos but I think 4000 pixel x 2248 pixel is more than enough resolution.
The best part of the Canon SD960 IS is the price. Available right now from Amazon for $259.88 (regular $299.99) the SD960 cost only $30 more than a Flip MinoHD. For the extra $30, you get video quality that is far superior to the Flip, optical image stabilizer, native iMovie support, fantastic still photos and nice 2.8″ 16:9 view screen. All wrapped up in a package that will fit in your pocket. The choice is clear as to which camera I’ll be using for the next Dot Com Pho. Here are some photos and a video sample.
