With the exception of their CCD sensors (the S30 is a 3-megapixel model, while the S40 is 4-megapixel), the cameras are essentially identical. Each features a brushed aluminum body with a sliding clamshell lens cover, a 3x optical zoom Canon lens, and a 1.8-inch LCD on the back of the camera for previewing and reviewing shots.

For beginners, the cameras are point-and-shoot simple. Just twist the dial to Auto and start snapping pictures. For more experienced photographers, both models include aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual modes, plus manual focus, exposure compensation, slow-sync flash, spot metering, and adjustable ISO (from 50 to 400 on the S40, and 50 to 800 on the S30).

Movie mode lets you capture video clips with sound. At 320 x 240 or 160 x 120 pixels, the movies aren't camcorder quality, but they're fun and convenient, and they're perfect as e-mail attachments. The cameras also include an unusual voice-memo feature, which lets you record up to 60 seconds of audio with each image.

To provide maximum battery life in the smallest possible space, the cameras use a proprietary lithium-ion battery (both the battery and a charger are included). The battery charges quickly and holds a reasonably long charge, but if you're planning to use the camera for extended outings, a spare battery is a good idea. A larger-capacity memory card is also advisable if you want to shoot more than a dozen photos at a time or really take advantage of the movie mode. The cameras use Type I or Type II CompactFlash cards, including the Microdrive. To print your photos at home, the S30 and S40 connect directly to Canon's CP-10 and S820D printers for easy printing--you don't even need a computer.

If you're looking for a camera with the sleek, compact style of a point-and-shoot with the extensive manual controls of an advanced amateur camera, the S30 and S40 are both great choices.

Product Description
A whole host of impressive technical features opens up a sea of creative possibilities. And all wrapped up in an extraordinarily beautiful and robust metal case. Advancements include a new RGB color filter and digital signal processor, giving you richer more lifelike color, even when shooting under adverse conditions. Cut out the middleman with the Direct Print mode. Connect your PowerShot S40 directly to the Canon CP-10 card photo printer or the Bubble Jet S820D and enjoy brilliant, long-lasting color prints without the need for a PC. And when one image isn't enough to tell the whole story, switch to movie mode to record short video clips - even with sound! With the PowerShot S40, you're not just up-to-date, you're a step ahead.

My only complaint with these cameras are their less than desirable lenses. The S40 has a 3x optical zoom (11x digital) and doesn't have the lens power of some of the other Olympus cameras. Then again, if you're looking for that type of lens capability, you're not looking at these cameras and are more apt to looking at the higher-end SLR versions.

Overall, these cameras have the Canon photo quality and the construction quality. A great buy!


If you want to get into digital photography   December 31, 2003
Jamey Key (Dallas, TX USA)
1 out of 4 found this review helpful

...this is a good camera to start with. Especially if you use a Mac because it works great with iPhoto. If youre a beginner like me, you may be overwhelmed by the amount of features the S40 offers, but dont worry. Just put it on automatic and you will be able to take great pictures. It just takes a little practice to get used to the delayed response shutter button.

Some of the things I like about it:
1. It takes very nice pictures. Your pictures will look as good as anyones.
2. It has a movie mode that I didnt know existed until recently. Saves the movie (with sound) in AVI format (QuickTime player will play it)
3. Attractive small body (and who doesnt like attractive small bodies?)
4. The LCD display is great for reviewing your pictures
5. It takes gigantic pictures. At 100% they are about 20" tall by 30" wide. You probably wont ever print out anything this large, but this just means you have a lot of detail and resolution wont be a problem.

What I dont like as much:
1. Too many manual settings keeps me from experimenting too much. You would have to read the manual if you want to do any shooting besides automatic. And who wants to read a manual?
2. You have to get pretty close to your subject. Taking group pictures from much further than 10'-15' will not turn out very good. If you can get up close you will have great pictures. Dont try to use this camera at a football game from the stands. I just dont think it has enough zoom power.

Ive enjoyed using mine for the last year and a half. Like the reviewers before me, I recommend doing the following:
1. Get an extra battery cause you never know when the battery will run out of juice. It will cost $25-$50 depending on what brand you get.
2. Im not sure what size compact flash card comes with the camera, but its probably in the 16MB range which is pretty much useless. Being a 4.0 Megapixel camera, and shooting such a large picture, it eats up memory. Get a couple of 128MB's or even larger if you can and you will have room to take 100 or so pictures.
3. I dont think it comes with Photoshop Elements, but if you can afford it, get it. If you do cropping and getting photos web-ready you will want to have this or the full Photoshop package (you better be very good if you want Santa to bring this)

You will like this camera and all your friends will tell you that you take great pictures.