PowerShot S5 IS

[madox]

Guys,
I enjoy using my latest camera, but I have a hard time taking pictures at dark time and indoors. Is this because I need a better flash or need to learn how to take pictures. My indoor pictures are not real clear.

[David Metsky]

Most P&S digital cameras (and ultrazooms are just big P&S cameras) have problems in low light. The Canon S-series is no exception. Low light is not the strong point of this camera.

You'll probably need to use a flash or raise the ISO and hold the camera very steady. The built-in flash has limited range (10-15') so for subjects beyond that you should look at an external flash.

But you can do a few things that will help. Set the ISO to 400 - I wouldn't go beyond that. Make sure the white balance is set appropriately. Try to open the aperture as much as possible. You'll still probably end up with a fairly slow shutter speed so subjects that move (like kids, pets, etc) will probably still have motion blur. For stationary objects (like buildings) you can use a tripod or simply set the camera down on a steady surface and use the 2-second timer delay.

[madox]

I guess I will have to save up for a flash, I do use the flash, but sometimes I am out of range and try the setting you talked about.
Thank you.

[madox]

How to you rate is camera for a non professional and just enjoy taking pictures?

[David Metsky]

I have the S3 and I love it for outdoors shooting. Indoors it's tough to get shots, but it's passable.