Canon PowerShot G3

Best non-SLR digital camera available – One of the greatest non SLR digitals available. The Canon G range has long been regarded as a forerunner of great digital camera innovation and a full complement of features and controls. The G1 started the revolution with a 3X Optical Zoom and 3MP resolution. The G2 improved on many functions and controls and boosted the resolution to 4MP. Then came the G3 with new Digic chipset, a powerful 4X Optical Zoom and enhanced ergonomics. The G3 was a great step up from the already strong G2 design. Anybody looking for a camera with SLR style control in a reasonably compact format will not be disappointed with the G3. A fantastic large lens of f/2.0-3.0, resonable 35-140mm zoom, strong variable internal flash, large long life lithium ion battery, flip out LCD and much more make this the most versatile camera in its class. If you, like me, are concerned at the thought of lossy JPEG compression a superior RAW shooting mode is offer for greater colour depth (30Bit colour opposed to 24Bit), loseless compression and control of post capture processes such as White Balance. At around 4MB per image the size is approxamitely 30% larger than comparable JPEG files, so allow for a large card when bying a Canon Gx camera. 512MB is my minimual recommendation for a camera of this calibre.

Extensive support for horseshoe flashes and add on lenses make this camera a long term investment that currently at only $1399 RRP (or $1199 from www.krowtenaus.com) offers great value.

Two weaknesses of the G3 are few but there are a couple that should be pointed out for people use to SLR cameras. The red eye function is of little use unless people are looking at the cameras red eye bulb. The autofucos system is a little slow but comparable to most other digital cameras in this price range. Also the camera controls are unavailable for a short time after taking a photo and may be frustrating when you want to quickly switch the flash mode or some such.

Please NOTE that this model has since been replaced by the 5MP G5, essentially the same camera in a black finish and 4MP sensor. If you have a lazy $200 then the G5 may be worth considering. At the time of this review, most definately it's the best non-SLR digital camera available

Excellent – Absolutely great camera. It is expensive, but you get what you pay for and more. All in all, great value for money and hours of pleasure creating awesome photos. <p>Perfect camera for the novice as well as experienced photographer. Allows you to change settings like shutter speed and aperture to create certain effects, but also have an auto mode for easy use. Great battery life!!</p> Nothing I can think of.