1. Introduction
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS is a compact 12.1 Megapixel digital camera featuring a 5x optical zoom lens and 1080p Full HD video recording capabilities. Its slim design makes it highly portable, while the HS SYSTEM and DIGIC 4 Image Processor enhance performance in low-light conditions and ensure high-quality images and videos.
This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your camera to help you capture memorable moments with ease.
2. Getting Started: Setup
2.1 Camera Overview
Figure 2.1: Front view of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS digital camera in black, showing the lens, flash, and Canon branding.
Figure 2.2: Rear view of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS digital camera, displaying the LCD screen and control buttons.
2.2 Battery Installation
- Open the battery compartment cover located on the bottom of the camera.
- Insert the provided Battery Pack (NB-4L) into the compartment, ensuring correct orientation as indicated by the diagram inside.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely until it clicks into place.
2.3 Memory Card Insertion
- Open the memory card slot cover, typically located near the battery compartment.
- Insert a compatible SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card into the slot with the label facing the front of the camera until it locks into place.
- Close the memory card slot cover securely.
2.4 Initial Charging
Before first use, fully charge the battery using the supplied Battery Charger. Connect the charger to a power outlet and insert the battery. The charging indicator will show the charging status.
3. Basic Operation
3.1 Power On/Off
Press the ON/OFF button located on the top of the camera to power it on or off. The lens will extend when powered on.
3.2 Taking Photos
- Turn on the camera.
- Frame your shot using the LCD screen.
- Press the shutter button halfway down to focus. The focus frame will turn green when focus is achieved.
- Press the shutter button fully down to take the picture.
3.3 Recording Videos
The camera features a dedicated movie button for instant video recording.
- With the camera powered on, press the dedicated Movie Button (red dot icon) to start recording.
- Press the Movie Button again to stop recording.
3.4 Zoom Function
Use the zoom lever around the shutter button to adjust the optical zoom (5x) and digital zoom (4x).
- Push the lever towards T (Telephoto) to zoom in.
- Push the lever towards W (Wide-angle) to zoom out.
3.5 Flash Settings
Press the flash button on the control dial to cycle through available flash modes:
- Auto Flash: Camera automatically determines if flash is needed.
- Flash On: Flash fires for every shot.
- Flash Off: Flash does not fire.
- Slow Synchro: For shooting subjects with night scenery.
4. Advanced Features and Modes
4.1 HS SYSTEM
The Canon HS SYSTEM, combining a 12.1 MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 Image Processor, enhances low-light shooting by reducing noise and maintaining image clarity without requiring a flash. This system allows for clear, blur-free shots with natural ambiance, even at higher ISO settings.
Video 4.1: Demonstration of the Canon HS System's capabilities in various lighting conditions, showcasing how it improves image quality without flash.
4.2 Smart AUTO
Smart AUTO mode automatically detects the scene and selects optimal camera settings from 32 predefined scenarios. This allows the user to focus on composition while the camera handles technical adjustments for both still images and videos.
4.3 Movie Capabilities
The camera supports various video resolutions:
- Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 30 fps (up to 14 min. 34 sec. or 4GB per clip)
- HD (1280 x 720) at 24 fps (up to 20 min. 43 sec. or 4GB per clip)
- VGA (640 x 480) at 30 fps (up to 43 min. 43 sec. or 4GB per clip)
- QVGA (320 x 240) at 30 fps (up to 1 hour 58 min. 19 sec. or 4GB per clip)
4.3.1 Super Slow Motion Movie
Records clips at high speeds (approx. 240fps) for slow-motion playback, useful for analyzing motion or creating visual effects.
4.3.2 Movie Digest Mode
Automatically records a short video clip (approx. 4 seconds) before each still image. These clips are then combined into a single video for the day, eliminating the need for manual editing.
Video 4.2: Demonstration of the Movie Digest feature, which automatically compiles short video clips taken before each still photo into a single daily video.
4.3.3 Miniature Movie Mode
Applies a miniature effect to videos by blurring the upper and bottom portions of the frame, making large scenes appear as if they are in miniature.
4.4 Creative Filters and Scene Modes
The camera offers various modes to enhance creativity and optimize shots for specific conditions:
- P Program: Access advanced exposure compensation features.
- Portrait: Blurs the background to emphasize the subject.
- Kids & Pets: Reduces focusing time for fast-moving subjects.
- Smart Shutter: Automatically takes photos when smiles, winks, or new faces are detected.
- High-speed Burst: Captures continuous shots at approx. 8.2fps.
- Best Image Selection: Takes five photos and selects the best one.
- Handheld Night Scene: Suppresses blur in low light without a tripod.
- Low Light: Optimizes for dimly-lit situations.
- Fisheye Effect: Adds a classic photo distortion.
- Miniature Effect: Emphasizes perspective for a miniature look.
- Toy Camera Effect: Simulates photos from toy cameras with darkened edges.
- Creative Light Effect: Transforms background bright spots into shapes.
- Monochrome: Offers Black-and-White, Sepia, or Blue single-tone effects.
- Super Vivid: Intensifies existing hues for vibrant colors.
- Poster Effect: Combines similar shades into one color for high contrast.
- Color Accent: Retains a single color while others turn monochrome.
- Color Swap: Replaces a selected color with another specified color.
- Beach: Optimizes for clear shots of people at a sunny beach.
- Foliage: Captures vibrant shots of plants.
- Snow: Ensures clear snow scenes without unnatural tints.
- Fireworks: Captures brilliant images of fireworks.
- Stitch Assist: Helps align sequential images for panoramas.
5. Maintenance and Care
5.1 Cleaning the Camera
- Camera Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water and then dry thoroughly.
- Lens: Use a lens brush to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth. Avoid touching the lens with your fingers.
- LCD Screen: Use a soft, dry cloth. For smudges, use a screen cleaner specifically designed for LCDs.
5.2 Battery Care
- Always use the original Canon battery and charger.
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Avoid exposing batteries to extreme temperatures.
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 extreme temperatures.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS, consider the following general troubleshooting steps:
- Camera does not power on: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
- Cannot take photos: Check if a memory card is inserted and has sufficient free space. Ensure the lens cap is removed (if applicable) and the camera is not in a playback mode.
- Blurry images: Verify that the lens is clean. Ensure adequate lighting or use the flash if necessary. Hold the camera steady or use a tripod.
- Memory card error: Reinsert the memory card. If the error persists, try a different compatible memory card. Ensure the card is not locked.
- Video recording issues: Check available memory card space. Ensure the battery has sufficient charge.
For more specific issues, refer to the Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM documentation or contact Canon customer support.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Canon |
| Model Name | Canon PowerShot ELPH |
| Model Number | 5096B001 |
| Effective Still Resolution | 12.8 MP |
| Total Still Resolution | 12.1 MP |
| Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
| Optical Zoom | 5 x |
| Digital Zoom | 4 x |
| Minimum Focal Length | 24 Millimeters |
| Maximum Focal Length | 120 Millimeters |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Screen Size | 2.7 Inches |
| Display Type | LCD |
| Video Resolution | FHD 1080p |
| Supported File Format | JPEG, MOV and DPOF |
| Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC/MMC/MMCplus/HC MMCplus |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 128 GB (Max Supported) |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 8 FPS |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
| Battery Average Life | 220 Photos |
| Connectivity Technology | HDMI, USB |
| Item Weight | 0.31 Pounds |
| Color | Black |
8. What's in the Box
- PowerShot ELPH 300 HS (Black) Digital Camera
- Battery Pack (NB-4L)
- Battery Charger
- Wrist Strap
- AV Cable
- USB Interface Cable
- Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM
- Documentation
9. Warranty and Support
This product is covered by Canon's limited warranty. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the documentation included in the Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM or visit the official Canon website for your region (e.g., Canon U.S.A., Inc. or Canon Canada Inc.).
For technical support, service, or additional inquiries, please contact Canon customer service through their official channels.
