Canon PowerShot S70 Digital Camera User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of your Canon PowerShot S70 digital camera. The PowerShot S70 is a 7.1-megapixel digital camera featuring a 3.6x optical zoom lens, designed for capturing high-quality still images and VGA-size movies. It offers a range of shooting modes from fully automatic to manual control, catering to various photographic needs.

Key features include:

• 7.1 Megapixel CCD sensor for detailed images.
• 3.6x optical zoom lens (28-100mm equivalent) with wide-angle capability.
• 13 shooting modes, including Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual, and Scene modes.
• DIGIC image processor and iSAPS technology for fast and accurate image processing.
• 9-point AiAF (Artificial Intelligent Auto Focus) system.
• Print/Share button for direct printing and easy image transfer.
• Macro Mode for close-up photography (as close as 4cm).

Figure 1.1: Front view of the Canon PowerShot S70 digital camera with an attached wrist strap.

2. Getting Started

2.1 Unpacking and Checking Contents

Before using your camera, ensure all items are present in the box:

• Canon PowerShot S70 Digital Camera
• NB-2LH Rechargeable Battery
• Battery Charger
• USB Cable
• AV Cable
• Wrist Strap
• 32MB CompactFlash Memory Card
• CD Software
• Warranty/Registration Card

2.2 Charging the Battery

Insert the NB-2LH battery into the provided battery charger and connect the charger to a power outlet. The charging indicator will show the charging status. Charge the battery fully before first use.

2.3 Inserting the Battery and Memory Card

Open the battery/card compartment cover located on the bottom of the camera. Insert the charged NB-2LH battery according to the polarity indicators. Insert the CompactFlash (CF) memory card into its slot until it clicks into place. Close the compartment cover securely.

Figure 2.1: Bottom view of the camera, illustrating the battery and CompactFlash card compartment.

2.4 Attaching the Wrist Strap

Thread the wrist strap through the strap mount on the side of the camera to prevent accidental drops.

3. Basic Operation

3.1 Powering On/Off

To turn the camera on, slide open the lens barrier. To turn it off, slide the lens barrier closed. The camera will automatically retract the lens.

3.2 Using the Mode Dial

The mode dial on the top of the camera allows you to select various shooting modes. Rotate the dial to choose between automatic, program, shutter-priority, aperture-priority, manual, and scene modes.

Figure 3.1: Top view of the camera, highlighting the mode dial and shutter button.

3.3 Taking Still Photos (Auto Mode)

1. Set the mode dial to AUTO.
2. Frame your subject using the 1.8-inch LCD screen.
3. Press the shutter button halfway down to focus. The camera will beep and the focus frame will turn green when focus is achieved.
4. Press the shutter button fully to take the picture.

3.4 Using the Zoom

Use the zoom lever located around the shutter button to adjust the focal length. Push it towards W for wide-angle (zooming out) and towards T for telephoto (zooming in). The camera features a 3.6x optical zoom and a 4.1x digital zoom.

3.5 Reviewing Images

Press the PLAY button (usually indicated by a triangle icon) to enter playback mode. Use the directional buttons to scroll through your captured images. Press the DISPLAY button to change the information shown on the LCD.

Figure 3.2: Rear view of the camera, displaying the LCD screen and control layout.

3.6 Deleting Images

In playback mode, select the image you wish to delete and press the DELETE button (trash can icon). Confirm your selection when prompted.

4. Advanced Features

4.1 Shooting Modes

Beyond Auto mode, the PowerShot S70 offers:

• Program (P): Camera sets aperture and shutter speed, but you can adjust other settings.
• Aperture Priority (Av): You set the aperture, camera sets shutter speed. Ideal for controlling depth of field.
• Shutter Priority (Tv): You set the shutter speed, camera sets aperture. Ideal for controlling motion blur.
• Manual (M): You control both aperture and shutter speed.
• Scene Modes: Pre-set modes for specific situations (e.g., Portrait, Landscape, Night Scene).
• Custom Modes (C1, C2): Save your preferred settings for quick recall.

4.2 Focusing Options

The camera uses a 9-point AiAF system for automatic focus. You can also use FlexiZone AF/AE to manually select a focus point on the screen and adjust exposure accordingly. Manual focus is also available for precise control.

4.3 Flash Modes

The built-in flash offers several modes: Auto, On, Off, and Slow Sync. Use Slow Sync for night portraits or to balance flash with ambient light.

4.4 Movie Recording

To record videos, set the mode dial to the movie camera icon. The PowerShot S70 records VGA-size (640x480) movies. Press the shutter button to start and stop recording.

4.5 Connecting to a Computer

Use the supplied USB cable to connect the camera to your computer. The camera's Print/Share button can be used to initiate image transfer to a Windows computer. Install the Canon software from the CD for full functionality.

4.6 Direct Printing (PictBridge)

The PowerShot S70 is compatible with PictBridge and Canon Direct Photo Printers. Connect the camera directly to a compatible printer using the USB cable and press the Print/Share button to print images without a computer.

5. Care and Maintenance

5.1 Cleaning the Camera

• Camera Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water.
• Lens: Use a lens brush or a blower to remove dust. For smudges, use a lens cleaning cloth and lens cleaning fluid. Avoid touching the lens surface directly.
• LCD Screen: Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid pressing hard on the screen.

5.2 Battery Care

• Always use the genuine Canon battery and charger.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Do not expose batteries to extreme temperatures or disassemble them.

5.3 Storage

When storing the camera for extended periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and high humidity.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your PowerShot S70.

• Camera does not turn on: Ensure the battery is charged and correctly inserted. Check that the lens barrier is fully open.
• "No memory card" message: Ensure a CompactFlash card is inserted correctly and is not damaged.
• Pictures are blurry: Ensure the camera is focusing correctly (press shutter halfway). Check for sufficient light. In low light, use the flash or a tripod.
• Images appear grainy with digital zoom: Digital zoom interpolates pixels and can reduce image quality. For best results, rely on optical zoom.
• Red-eye in flash photos: Use the red-eye reduction flash mode if available, or correct in post-processing.
• Barrel distortion at wide-angle: This is a characteristic of wide-angle lenses. To minimize, zoom slightly in or adjust composition.
• Purple fringing (chromatic aberration): May appear in high-contrast areas. This is a common optical phenomenon in digital cameras and can sometimes be corrected with image editing software.
• Sliding lens barrier mechanism feels loose: Ensure the camera is handled with care. If the mechanism fails to operate correctly, contact customer support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty Information

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Canon website. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region and purchase date. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

9. Customer Support

If you require further assistance or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact Canon customer support or visit the official Canon website for FAQs, software downloads, and service information.

You can find more information and resources at the Canon Store or through the Canon iMAGE Gateway online service.