Picture Quality / Size Options
Selectable from the Func/Set menu in every shooting mode are the image quality and size options. All of the image sizes are available in the JPEG Normal, Fine and SuperFine compressions. As users scroll through these, the number of available pictures that can fit is displayed; this number changes to reflect available memory. So while users may be able to get 140 shots from the Normal compression, they can only get 90 from the Fine setting, for example. The image sizes have that helpful option too; the number can be viewed in the bottom right corner of the LCD screen.
The following image sizes are available: Large (2816 x 2112), Medium 1 (2272 x 1704), Medium 2 (1600 x 1200), Small (640 x 480). There is also a widescreen-optimized 2816 x 1584 pixel mode that is formatted in 16:9. This is a new feature on the Canon PowerShot ultra zoom series and facilitates panoramic-style pictures. Despite this setting, there is still a Stitch Assist mode that lets users snap pictures left to right and right to left to their hearts’ content. The editing software stitches the pictures together when they are uploaded to a computer.
Picture Effects Mode
In some previous PowerShots, the My Colors mode has had its own real estate on the mode dial and has been only available in the recording mode. The new Canon PowerShot S3 IS makes some changes to the protocol. Instead of being on the mode dial, the color effects have a new home within the Func/Set menu. It is here that these options can be found: Vivid, Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, Vivid Red, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, Positive Film, Lighter Skin Tone, Darker Skin Tone and Custom Color. The more interesting Color Swap and Color Accent modes can be found within the scene mode menu. The longer list is available from the playback menu as well, but users cannot swap their red shirts for blue ones or accent their red lips on their black and white faces in the playback mode.
