Canon PowerShot SX600 HS Digital Camera User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the safe and effective use of your Canon PowerShot SX600 HS Digital Camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the camera and keep it for future reference.

Figure 1: Front view of the Canon PowerShot SX600 HS Digital Camera. This image displays the camera's lens, flash, and branding.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Canon PowerShot SX600 HS Digital Camera
• Battery Pack
• Battery Charger
• USB Cable
• Wrist Strap
• Instruction Manual (this document)

Figure 2: Contents of the Canon PowerShot SX600 HS package, including the camera, battery, charger, and cables.

3. Setup

3.1. Charging the Battery

1. Insert the battery into the provided battery charger.
2. Connect the charger to a power outlet. The charge indicator light will illuminate.
3. Once charging is complete, the indicator light will change (refer to charger specific instructions for light behavior).
4. Remove the battery from the charger.

3.2. Inserting the Battery and Memory Card

1. Open the battery/card compartment cover on the camera.
2. Insert the charged battery into the compartment, ensuring correct orientation.
3. Insert a compatible SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card into the card slot until it clicks into place.
4. Close the compartment cover securely.

3.3. Powering On/Off

Press the ON/OFF button located on the top of the camera to power it on or off.

Figure 3: Top view of the camera, highlighting the ON/OFF button and zoom lever.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Basic Photography

1. Framing Your Shot: Use the LCD screen to compose your image.
2. Zooming: Use the zoom lever around the shutter button to adjust the 18x optical zoom. Move it towards W for wide-angle or T for telephoto.
3. Focusing: Press the shutter button halfway down to focus. The camera will automatically detect subjects and adjust focus.
4. Taking a Picture: Press the shutter button fully down to capture the image.

Figure 4: Angled view of the camera, showing the lens and retracted flash unit.

4.2. Shooting Modes

The PowerShot SX600 HS offers various shooting modes to optimize your photos:

• Smart AUTO: The camera automatically detects the scene and selects optimal settings from 32 predefined situations for both stills and video. Includes Advanced Subject Detection for non-human moving subjects.
• Creative Shot: Captures an original image and automatically generates five additional variations with different artistic filters (Retro, Monochrome, Special, Natural categories).
• Hybrid Auto: Records a short video clip (up to four seconds) before each still image, then combines them into a highlight reel. Optimizes camera settings for best image quality.
• Program (P): Allows manual control over certain settings while the camera automatically sets aperture and shutter speed.
• Special Scene Modes: Includes Portrait, Smart Shutter, High-Speed Burst, Handheld Night Scene, Low Light, Fisheye Effect, Miniature Effect, Toy Camera Effect, Monochrome, Super Vivid, Poster Effect, Snow, and Fireworks.

4.3. Video Recording

The camera can record stunning 1080p Full HD video.

1. To start recording, press the dedicated Movie Button.
2. To stop recording, press the Movie Button again.
3. Videos are recorded in MP4 format at 30 frames per second, suitable for sharing.

4.4. Connectivity (Wi-Fi & NFC)

The PowerShot SX600 HS features built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing and remote control.

• Mobile Device Connect Button: Press this button to quickly connect to a smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi using the free Canon CameraWindow app. This allows for image transfer and remote shooting.
• NFC (Near Field Communication): For compatible Android devices (version 4.0 or later), simply touch the camera's NFC icon to the device to launch the CameraWindow app and establish a connection.
• Image Sync: Transfer images to your computer on the same network. If a connection is not immediately available, images are temporarily stored on CANON iMAGE GATEWAY.
• Direct Printing: Connect to a PictBridge (Wireless LAN) certified printer via Wi-Fi or a Canon PIXMA/SELPHY photo printer via USB for direct printing.

Figure 5: Rear view of the camera, displaying the LCD screen and various control buttons, including the Mobile Device Connect Button.

4.5. Image Quality and Processing

• 16.0 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor: Captures detailed images, especially in low light, with reduced noise and expanded dynamic range.
• DIGIC 4+ Image Processor: Powers advanced functions, ensures fast performance, and enhances image quality by reducing noise in high ISO shots and enabling electronic Dynamic IS.
• Canon HS SYSTEM: Combination of the CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ processor for excellent low-light performance, allowing for quality images at ISO speeds up to 3200.

4.6. Image Stabilization (Intelligent IS)

Intelligent IS automatically analyzes camera movement and applies the best shake correction method for the situation.

• Still Image Shooting Modes: Normal IS, Panning IS, Macro (Hybrid) IS, and Tripod modes.
• Video Recording Modes: Dynamic IS, Powered IS, Macro (Hybrid) IS, and Active Tripod IS modes.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning the Camera Body: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the camera body. For stubborn dirt, lightly dampen the cloth with water.
• Cleaning the Lens: Use a lens brush or a blower to remove dust. For smudges, use a lens cleaning cloth and lens cleaning solution. Avoid touching the lens surface directly.
• LCD Screen: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the LCD screen.
• Battery Care: Store batteries in a cool, dry place. Do not expose them to extreme temperatures.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, remove the battery and memory card and store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your camera, consider the following general troubleshooting steps:

• Camera does not power on: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
• Cannot take pictures: Check if a memory card is inserted and has sufficient free space. Ensure the lens cap is removed.
• Images are blurry: Verify that the lens is clean. Ensure the camera is held steady or use Intelligent IS. Check focus settings.
• Wi-Fi connection issues: Ensure the CameraWindow app is installed on your mobile device. Restart both the camera and the mobile device. Check network settings.
• Flash not firing: Check flash mode settings. Ensure the flash unit is popped up if applicable.

For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the official Canon support website or contact customer service.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

The Canon PowerShot SX600 HS Digital Camera comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical support, service, or further information, please visit the official Canon website or contact Canon customer service in your region. Contact details can typically be found on the Canon website or in the warranty card included with your product.