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Writer's pictureIan Miller

Powershot G11

The Canon Powershot G11: A Street Photographer's Compact Companion


Street photography is an art that captures the candid essence of city life, and the Canon Powershot G11 has been a topic of discussion among enthusiasts for its suitability in this genre. The G11, a camera that emerged as a strong contender in the compact camera market, has been praised for its robust build and DSLR-like features, making it a potential gem for street photographers.

The G11 boasts a 10-megapixel sensor, which at first may seem like a step back from its predecessor's 14.7 megapixels. However, this reduction is a strategic move by Canon to improve image quality over sheer resolution. The lower pixel count, combined with the high-sensitivity sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor, results in a significant 2-stop increase in image quality, especially in low-light conditions. This is particularly beneficial for street photography, where lighting can be unpredictable and often less than ideal.


Another feature that makes the G11 suitable for street photography is its 5x optical zoom lens, with a 28-140mm equivalent focal length. This range is versatile for capturing a variety of scenes, from wide-angle architectural shots to close-up human interest stories. The lens's optical image stabilizer is a boon for on-the-go shooting, helping to reduce camera shake and blur in your photos.


The G11 also offers a vari-angle 2.8-inch LCD screen, which is smaller than the G10's but provides the flexibility of shooting from various angles—a handy feature when trying to capture those unique street scenes discreetly. The camera's solid, tank-like construction gives it a durable feel, essential for the rigors of street photography.


In terms of performance, the G11 delivers accurate colors and solid results that Canon cameras are known for. While there is some purple fringing at extreme telephoto ranges and severe enlargements, this is generally not an issue for standard prints. The camera's main drawback is its shot-to-shot speed, which may not be suitable for fast-paced action but is typically sufficient for the spontaneous nature of street photography.


The Canon Powershot G11, with its combination of image quality, build, and features, presents itself as a compelling choice for street photographers looking for a compact camera with a DSLR feel. Its design and capabilities cater to the needs of capturing life on the streets, making it a worthy companion for those who wish to explore the urban landscape through their lens. Whether you're a seasoned street photographer or just starting, the G11 deserves consideration for your next photographic adventure in the concrete jungle.


The image quality of the Canon PowerShot G11 was quite good for a compact camera of its time. Here are some aspects to consider:


  1. Resolution: With its 10-megapixel sensor, the G11 could capture detailed images suitable for prints up to moderate sizes (e.g., 8x10 inches or A4).

  2. Lens Performance: The 5x wide-angle zoom lens (28-140mm equivalent) allowed for versatile shooting. At wider focal lengths, it produced sharp images, especially in good lighting conditions. However, like most compact cameras, image quality could degrade slightly at the telephoto end.

  3. Noise Handling: Noise (graininess) tends to increase as you raise the ISO sensitivity. The G11 performed reasonably well at lower ISO settings (up to ISO 400), but noise became noticeable at higher ISOs.

  4. RAW Format: Shooting in RAW allowed for better post-processing control. If you were willing to edit your photos, RAW files provided more latitude for adjustments.

  5. Color Reproduction: The G11 produced pleasing colors, though some users preferred to fine-tune color settings based on personal preferences.

  6. Dynamic Range: While not exceptional, the G11 managed decent dynamic range, capturing details in both highlights and shadows.


Remember that the G11’s image quality was influenced by its compact size and sensor limitations. For critical photography, enthusiasts often turned to larger-sensor cameras. However, as a portable companion, the G11 delivered respectable results. 😊📸

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