Product Overview
The Canon PowerShot G5 is a 5.0 Megapixel digital camera designed for advanced amateur and professional photographers. It features a 4x optical zoom lens, a vari-angle LCD monitor, and a range of shooting modes to provide flexibility in various photographic situations. The camera is built with a robust body and a black finish.
Key features include:
- 5.0 Megapixel CCD sensor for high-resolution images.
- 4x optical zoom lens (35-140mm equivalent) with a large maximum aperture of f/2.0 – f/3.0.
- DIGIC Imaging Processor for fast image processing and improved autofocus accuracy.
- 1.8-inch vari-angle TFT LCD monitor for flexible viewing.
- Multiple shooting modes, including manual, aperture priority, shutter priority, and two custom modes.
- RAW image format support for post-processing flexibility.
- Movie mode for recording video clips with sound.
Setup
1. Installing the Battery
The PowerShot G5 uses a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery pack (BP-511). Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use.
- Open the battery compartment cover located on the bottom of the camera.
- Insert the BP-511 battery pack with the correct orientation, matching the terminals.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely until it clicks into place.
2. Inserting a CompactFlash Card
Images are stored on CompactFlash Type I or Type II cards. A 32 MB CompactFlash card is typically included.
- Open the CompactFlash card slot cover, usually located on the side of the camera.
- Insert the CompactFlash card into the slot with the correct orientation. Push it gently until it is fully seated.
- Close the card slot cover securely.
Figure 1: Front view of the Canon PowerShot G5 camera with the lens extended and the vari-angle LCD monitor rotated outwards.
3. Initial Power On
Press the power button to turn on the camera. The first time you power on, you may be prompted to set the date and time. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Operating the Camera
1. Basic Photography Modes
The mode dial on top of the camera allows selection of various shooting modes:
- Auto Mode: For simple point-and-shoot operation, where the camera automatically sets exposure and other settings.
- Program AE (P): Camera sets aperture and shutter speed, but allows control over other settings like ISO and white balance.
- Shutter-priority AE (Tv): You set the shutter speed, and the camera automatically sets the aperture for correct exposure.
- Aperture-priority AE (Av): You set the aperture, and the camera automatically sets the shutter speed for correct exposure.
- Manual (M): You have full control over both aperture and shutter speed.
- Custom Modes (C1, C2): Allows saving and recalling preferred camera settings.
- Scene Modes: Includes Portrait, Landscape, Night Scene, and StitchAssist for specific shooting conditions.
2. Zoom Operation
Use the zoom lever, typically located around the shutter button, to adjust the optical zoom (4x) and digital zoom (4x, for a total of 16x combined zoom). The optical zoom provides higher image quality.
3. Focusing
The PowerShot G5 offers various autofocus (AF) systems:
- Single AF: Focuses once when the shutter button is pressed halfway.
- Continuous AF: Continuously adjusts focus, suitable for moving subjects.
- FlexiZone AF/AE: Allows you to manually select the focus point anywhere within the frame.
- Focus Bracketing: Takes multiple shots with slightly different focus points, useful for macro photography or ensuring sharp focus.
For manual focus, switch to MF mode and use the control dial to adjust focus while observing the LCD monitor.
Figure 2: Rear view of the Canon PowerShot G5, highlighting the control buttons and the vari-angle LCD monitor.
4. Movie Mode
To record video with monaural sound, select the movie mode on the mode dial. You can record in 320x240 or 160x120 resolution. Individual clips are limited to three minutes in length.
5. Using the Vari-Angle LCD Monitor
The 1.8-inch TFT LCD monitor can be rotated and tilted, allowing for flexible shooting angles, including low-angle, high-angle, and self-portraits. This feature is useful for composing shots from difficult positions.
Maintenance
1. Cleaning the Camera
- Lens: Use a soft, lint-free cloth specifically designed for camera lenses. For stubborn smudges, use a lens cleaning solution sparingly.
- LCD Monitor: Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid pressing too hard.
- Camera Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use organic solvents or strong cleaning agents.
2. Battery Charging
Use the provided AC adapter and battery charger to recharge the BP-511 Lithium-ion battery. A full charge allows for approximately 450 pictures with the LCD on, or 360 minutes of playback.
3. Storage
When not in use for extended periods, remove the battery and store the camera in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use a protective case to prevent dust and scratches.
Troubleshooting
1. Camera Does Not Power On
- Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
- Check if the battery terminals are clean.
2. Autofocus Issues
- If the camera struggles to find focus, especially in low light or on subjects with low contrast, try switching to manual focus (MF).
- Ensure there are no obstructions in front of the lens or the AF assist lamp.
- For challenging subjects, consider using FlexiZone AF to specify a precise focus point.
3. Memory Card Problems
- If the camera displays an error related to the CompactFlash card, try reinserting the card.
- Ensure the card is not write-protected.
- Consider formatting the card (this will erase all data).
- While the camera supports various card sizes, some users have reported better compatibility with 128MB cards compared to larger ones.
4. Image Quality Concerns
- Check shooting mode settings; ensure appropriate aperture, shutter speed, and ISO are selected for the lighting conditions.
- Clean the lens if images appear blurry or smudged.
- For optimal quality, shoot in RAW format and process images using the included software.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Canon PowerShot G5 |
| Model Number | 8398A001 |
| Photo Sensor Resolution | 5.0 Megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 4x |
| Digital Zoom | 4x |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.0 - f/3.0 |
| Minimum Focal Length | 35mm (35mm equivalent) |
| Maximum Focal Length | 140mm (35mm equivalent) |
| Screen Size | 1.8 Inches |
| Display Type | TFT LCD (Vari-angle) |
| Image Stabilization | Digital, Optical |
| Storage Media | CompactFlash Type I/II |
| Included Memory Card | 32 MB CompactFlash |
| Supported File Formats | RAW, JPEG (Fine) |
| Connectivity | USB 1.1, A/V Out |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable Lithium-ion (BP-511) |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 2 FPS |
| Movie Recording | 320x240 or 160x120 with sound (max 3 min/clip) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 4.76 x 2.91 x 2.75 inches |
| Weight (without batteries/media) | 14.5 ounces |
Warranty Information
This Canon PowerShot G5 camera typically comes with a 90-day parts and labor warranty. Please refer to your purchase documentation or contact Canon customer support for specific warranty terms and conditions applicable to your region.
Support and Software
The PowerShot G5 includes software for image management and transfer:
- ZoomBrowser EX (Windows) / ImageBrowser (Macintosh): For organizing, viewing, printing, and transferring images.
- File Viewer Utility: For fast transfer, preview, and conversion of RAW image files.
- Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP): Enables driverless connection to Windows XP and Mac OS-X (v10.1/v.10.2) for image transfer.
The camera also supports direct printing to compatible Canon Direct Print printers without the need for a computer.
For further assistance or to explore additional accessories, visit the official Canon Store.
