Improvements over SD500 - read on:, September 15, 2005
Reviewer: T. Tom

I like this little digital camera. It does everything a point and shoot digital camera should do and more. For me, a point and shoot camera should be small and light so that it can conveniently go with me everywhere. That's the power of any point and shoot camera actually. It goes with you in your daily life and subsequently you get shots that you could not get with other larger cameras either because it would be too conspicous, or too inconvenient to carry with you. This is the snapshot ethic. I'm a professional photographer and I carry this little pocket camera with me everywhere because I can't carry my pro SLR with me all the time and not have it feel like a burden on my shoulder.

You might be tempted to instead buy the cheaper and slightly older Canon SD500 since it has the same megapixel rating and looks very similar. There are however some pretty good improvements in the SD550:

-a larger LCD screen (very nice)
-better movie mode (SD500 put an annoying hissing/whining sound into the movie)
-better battery lid latch design
-better internal software (the display actually displays words and symbols such as "continuous mode" "single shot" "Macro" and not just the symbols alone.

A NOTE ABOUT CASE COLOR:
The SD550 comes in both Silver (called Grey on the box) or Champagne Gold. You will need to inquire with the vendor what color they stock or if you have a choice. Some of the vendors may be a bit useless in this respect so watch out-you may end up receiving a case color that you did not want. In my opinion, the Champagne Gold color is very ugly. Silver is much more attractive, even if you have to go to a local store to buy it.

This camera is easy and fun to use and I can even shoot a long movie (up to 20 something minutes at the lower resolution with a 1GB card). Some cameras (Casio) only let you shoot a short 8 second movie. The movie mode is quite usable with quality video and audio.

Another cool feature is that the automatic orientation sensor works when you are reviewing images. Try reviewing images and rotating the camera around-the image will always stay right side up on the LCD screen!

To conclude, I am happy with this camera because it does everything a small point and shoot digital camera should do, yet it is quite small, light, feels sturdy (metal case) and has very pleasant ergonomics both with regard to the layout of the controls as well as to the on screen menu functions. Color, sharpness and resolution are all impressive for a camera this size.
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Best ultra-compact I've seen yet., September 17, 2005
Reviewer: Just Say Yo
I have owned several digital cameras over the past 3 years. Canon is a brand that never disappoints. This camera is no exception. I have a Canon 20D digital SLR I use with an external flash. I use it almost everyday. Stunning quality, but those of you who have kids know that this is a quite a monster to carry around on a day-to-day basis.

I needed something that I could pop into a bag and go without feeling like I was sacrificing quallity. The SD550 is the solution.

The Digic II processor enables fast focusing and thereby reduces "shutter lag." Fewer lost moments.

Easy menu/function navagation.

The flash is amazingly adequate despite it's smallish appearance. Adequate illumination up to 15'.

Great in-cam screen. Largest in its class (2.5").

Many custom settings for the novice to the the pro.

Movie mode is awesome for a camera of this size.

Cons are:

You will need to spend an additional 60-90 bucks to get a practical memory card. They supply a 32MB card that is good for about a dozen hi-res pics (or fewer).

Still no case included. Coach makes a nice one for about 30 bucks.

Conclusion:
I know I am an early adopter but I am sure this camera will be a best seller. I hope your results are comparable.            Back to Canon Powershot SD550