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Thursday, Canon announced the 7.1 megapixel upper-level PowerShot G6 (spec sheet) to replace the existing the 5.0 megapixel G5. The G6 targets the upper end of the digital camera market, aiming for "35mm enthusiasts who can’t quite justify the expense of a digital SLR, but want a digital camera that certainly gives them a broad degree of flexibility as well as a good picture," according to Canon representative Rudy Winston.
The G6 will incorporate a 4x optical zoom with the G5’s existing 35-140mm zoom lens. Along with substantial zoom capability, the G6 provides a fast lens that can close down to f/2.0 on wind angle shots and f/3.0 in full telephoto mode. This will enable the PowerShot G6 to handle low-light settings and provide proper exposures in minimal illumination.
Arguably the best feature on the G6 is its 3-stop neutral density filter. The neutral density filter is accessible through the menu and will offer users the ability to engage the neutral density filter at f/8 and get an equivalent of f/22. According to Canon, the filter acts like a pair of sunglasses, cutting down light and allowing for a proper exposure in extremely close-up shots.
Winston describes the neutral density filter: "In ambient light situations, there are times when a photographer may be including the sun in a scenic picture (even at ISO50 at f/8) and still experience a little overexposure in the bright areas. The 3-stop neutral Density Filter cuts light back significantly and gives you effective light transmission, much more similar what you would expect with a digital SLR which allows you to stop down to f/16 or f.22."
Within the PowerShot series, the G6 is uniquely equipped with many SLR-like characteristics and features. Among these is expansive flash control, which provides even more opportunity in low-light situations. With full TTL (through the lens) capability, the G6 will function with EOS flash units, including macro flashes.
The new Canon PowerShot G6 will retail for $699 upon its September release.