Dubai, UAE, 14 May 2003 – Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, has introduced to the Middle East market a high specification 5 Megapixel camera to head the “S” range of PowerShot models – the new PowerShot S50. Fitted with a 3x f/2.8-4.9 optical zoom, covering focal lengths of 35-105mm, it offers a wide range of photographic controls, presented in an easy to access format that will satisfy seasoned photographers and advanced users.
 
Leading the PowerShot range, the new PowerShot S50 features many of the same facilities as the popular PowerShot S45, such as the 9-point AiAF (Artificial intelligence Auto Focus) system, the flexizone focus selector and Canon's unique DIGIC (DIGital Imaging Core) processor.
 
”The PowerShot S50 is well equipped to head-up the S series of cameras,” said Michel Sabbagh, marketing manager of Canon Middle East. “The level of control it offers the user is quite exceptional for any camera, let alone a pocket-sized model like this, and the quality of image it produces enables users to comfortably print right up to A3.”
 
Maximum image quality
Canon's powerful DIGIC processor is used in this camera to provide a huge capacity for complex assessment of the scene to be captured. The PowerShot S50 uses information from the zoom position, scene brightness and other systems to determine what sort of subject is being photographed in order to optimise AF speed, exposure accuracy and white balance performance.
 
For maximum image quality, the PowerShot S50 provides RAW file capture as well as various JPEG settings. It is also possible to save an image in the RAW format even when it was shot in a JPEG mode, should the user choose to do so when viewing the image in Record mode. Further user control comes in the form of three metering modes, ISO settings from ISO 50-400 and a shutter speed range of 15-1/1500sec.
 
The camera allows 2 custom white balance settings, in addition to the 6 pre-set programs, for perfect colours every time.
The camera's built-in flash is both powerful and flexible, offering a range of features including second curtain synchronisation, manual output control, plus a maximum range of 4m at ISO 100.
 
13 shooting modes
Combining automatic functions and manual selections the PowerShot S50 features 13 shooting modes, including subject-based modes and semi-auto modes such as aperture priority. A fast sequence mode allows a maximum frame rate of 2 frames per second, maintained for up to 8 images, while Photo Effect modes give users access to sharpening, contrast and colour saturation controls.
 
Movie mode and printing
A movie mode permits movie clips of up to a full 3 minutes each, complete with sound and the option to cut and edit them on the camera's own screen. The camera can also attach voice memos or sound files of up to 60 seconds to each image.
 
As with all the latest Canon digital cameras the PowerShot S50 supports Canon's Direct Print system, for printing with the camera linked straight to a Bubble Jet Direct Printer or Card Photo type printer. In-camera controls allow users to select the number of prints to be made, image cropping and print size. In addition users will gain access to the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY online service where users may share and store their images and the 'My Camera' function allows sound and image files may be downloaded to the camera.
 
Accessories and software
The PowerShot S50 is compatible with CompactFlash memory cards type I and II, including the IBM Microdrive‰, and is compliant with FAT32 for the use of cards with a capacity of over 2GB. The camera is supplied with a 32MB CF card, rechargeable lithium ion battery pack (NB-2L), battery charger and connecting cables.
 
The software included is Canon's ZoomBrowser EX (Windows), Image Browser (Mac), PhotoRecord, PhotoStitch and RemoteCapture software. As the camera is PTP compatible no additional drivers are needed in Windows XP or MAC OS X environments.
The optional waterproof case (WP-DC300) allows users to even enjoy the PowerShot S50 underwater, up to a depth of 30m.
 
-Ends-
 
About Canon Middle East
Canon is a world-leading innovator and provider of imaging and information technology solutions for individuals and businesses. Canon provides both individual products and complete networked technology solutions for information input, management and output. Its product range is divided between Business Solutions (developing IT products, solutions and services for both the office and professional print environments) and Consumer Imaging (photography, video and digital camera, Bubble Jet printers).  Canon Middle East is the operational headquarters for Canon in this region, and is based in Dubai, UAE. Further information about Canon Middle East is available at: www.canon-me.com

© Press Release 2003