I get asked for camera recommendations often and I’ve not done any research in a while, so I decided to check out the product line up. I only recommend Canon not because I think they are unequivocally the best, but that’s the brand I’m most familiar with so I understand their tech specs and their marketing literature (and I love Canon cameras). I’m linking to the Canon website for specs, but I would suggest buying elsewhere.
These recommendations are based on a very subjective mix of technical specifications, price point, form factor and weight, and marginal value of additional features for price differential. The features I highlight are just the features that excite me, I’m also bolding the biggest reasons to upgrade to this tier from the previous one. There might be other differentiating features that are important to others.
High: S100
If you want any more features or control over your photo experience, you really should be using a dSLR. This camera strikes a great balance between being a compact P&S and a creative control camera. Edit: Actually come to think of it, the next option up would be a MILC (mirrorless interchangeable lens camera), like the Sony NEX or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 (micro four-thirds).
- Manual control with configurable function rings (dials)
- f/2.0 - f/5.9, 24-120mm (35 mm equivalent)
- Image Stabilization
- 1080p 24fps video, movie digest
- Built in GPS for geo-tagging
- Digic 5 with ISO 6400 for low night
Medium: ELPH 110 HS
This is an extremely solid camera and I believe best bang for the buck. The movie digest is a great feature for vacation and family snapshots.
- f/2.7 - f/5.9, 24-120mm zoom
- Image Stabilization
- 1080p 24fps video
- Movie digest
- Digic 5
Low: Powershot A2400
This is a great no frills (sadly no thrills either) camera, but the addition of the image stabilization makes it a great camera for people who just want to take good photos without any hassle. Basic easy video capture and a help button also make it attractive to the non-tech savvy type.
- f/2.8 - f/6.9, 28-140mm zoom
- Image Stabilization
- 720p video
- Digic 4
- Built in help button
Sub $100 entry level: Powershot A800
Budget is the only reason to buy this camera, but the image processing and sensor on it are pretty solid.
- f/3.0 - f/5.8, 37-122mm zoom
Again, this is just my opinion from research, I have not had a chance to test any of these cameras. If Canon would like me to test cameras for them, I would be more than happy to do so and write reviews!
