Greetings, I received delivery of my new Canon S70 yesterday. These are my initial impressions of it:

The S70 mechanics should not require a long learning curve to master for anyone who has even limited amounts of experience with digital cameras. In fact, within a few moments scanning the quick start guide and then inspecting the camera, I was able to properly setup and operate the camera quickly and without difficulty.

The factors that allowed such ease are that Canon’s Quick Start Guide is excellent. Its text is understandable and is augmented by excellent graphics. Second, the camera compartments are easy to open/close while the icons that identify various functions are easily recognizable. Third, dials, buttons and other selectors are simple to operate (even for me with my somewhat arthritic fingers).

The S70 allows for the camera operator to choose from eight shooting modes: auto, portrait, landscape, night scene, fast shutter, slow shutter, stitch assist and movie. I chuckle when I think about how very simple this method is from the procedures I had to learn (lighting, settings, etc.) in order to properly take photos with my first SLR camera.

I am most impressed by the quality of images captured by S70 7.1 mega pixel camera. Each distance that I shot (macro, widest and finally to furthest distances) produced outstanding color rich and detailed images.

Compared to the 3.2 mega pixel Nikon 990 that I have owned for almost four years, the S70 is a significant jump in technology. It is also a more user-friendly camera to hold and operate.

The S70 allows for the transfer of images directly to a computer or printer by means of a USB2 cable. Nevertheless, I purchased a Delkin Film Reader-24 IEEE 1394A system. It is my observation that the Delkin moves data to the computer faster then the camera-cable method or by using the SanDisk SDDR-31 USB2 reader that I bought (to use with my Nikon years ago). Although I did not use a stop watch to time the differences transferring a 1GB card, I found that the IEEE 1394 transfer was swifter then either of the USB2 systems.

I have not tried the movie or audio functions of the S70 as I do not intend to make use of them.

When I decided to move up from my Nikon 990, I personally inspected various digital brands and models. After comparing features, I chose the S70. My initial impression after handling the S70 for two days is that I made the right choice.