Picture Quality / Size Options (7.5)
Canon has included a range of image sizes and quality options for both still and video recording. Still images are captured as JPEG files at 2592 x 1944, 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, or 640 x 480 resolution with Normal, Fine, and SuperFine compression/quality options. Video can be captured with stereo audio at either 640 x 480 or 320 x 240 resolution at 30 or 15 frames per second until the card is full. Canon did not include RAW or TIFF recording capabilities on the S2 IS, assuming the majority of those users interested in editing uncompressed images or opening the files in vector-based software applications will be drawn to digital SLRs.
Picture Effects Mode (8.5)
Instead of RAW or TIFF recording potential, Canon felt it more appropriate to include a range of effects to craft images in-camera. There are five general image effects: Vivid (saturated tones), Neutral, Low Sharpening (soft), Sepia tone, and Black and White. A Custom Effect option is also included and seems to have been loosely appropriated to the PowerShot line from Canon’s EOS line of digital SLRs. Within the Custom Effect parameters, users can alter Contrast, Sharpness, and Saturation in full step increments (+/-1). While amusing to play around with, these settings are definitely not a feasible substitute for Photoshop. If you want real control over picture effects, color manipulation, and other image alterations, it would be wise to avoid these modes.
