Canon PowerShot S2 IS

Dislikes- Terrible quality on Electronic Color Viewfinder
- Dual menu structure could be confusing to beginners
- High levels of noise present at ISO 200 and 400
- Shutter release sound is recorded by mics during video capture (defeats point of dual release)
- Only offers linear video editing in-camera (can only truncate clip or delay intro)

Conclusion
The Canon PowerShot S2 picks up where the PowerShot S1 IS left off, though not perhaps in the ways some might expect: it improved upon the S1’s strengths while still falling short in all the same areas. The S2 makes significant strides in the push towards hybrid functionality, adding stereo recording, manual audio controls, dual recording buttons, and a wind reduction function. The 12x optical zoom lens is extremely versatile and includes selectable stabilization settings to optimize performance and distinguish it from other ultra zoom models—and if it’s not versatile enough, the user has the option to purchase compatible accessory lenses for increased wide angle and telephoto capabilities. The flip-out 1.8" LCD, which can swivel 270 degrees, is not wholly unique but not yet common either. Its 5 MP images can now be recorded to an SD card, and the improved macro mode makes those cliché shots of dew-sprinkled flower petals easier than ever.

However, still performance fell short of expectations. And while the addition of the DIGIC II processor improved the S2’s performance speeds, it did not do much to help the camera’s difficulty in suppressing noise. This is the major downfall of the S2. Resulting images are noisy and colors are a bit muddier than the Cyber-shot H1. All around, the S2 is a capable camera with an extremely flexible lens that justifies the $450 price tag alone; however, those looking for immaculate stills will be put off by the visible noise present in the S2’s images.