In today's increasingly digitized photography world it was a real pleasure to find a new model compact 35mm camera from Canon. In addition, it's a camera that's loaded with features and has a most respectable 3.4X zoom range plus a broad shutter speed range of 2-1/500 second.

The brand new Canon 130u II offers lots of capability in a very small and lightweight package. Improvements over the previous version with the same model number include six PIC modes and a beeper camera status function. Most control buttons are located on the top on either end of a large informative LCD panel. A large button on the beveled back quickly switches the power on and extends the recessed lens to operating position.

The setting buttons are also large and well labeled for easy identification. A wobble button beside the shutter release rapidly moves the smooth and quiet power zoom function through the entire 3.4X range. The viewfinder is bright, has diopter adjustment for different eyesight, and has easy to see marks for identifying the close-focus field. Pressing the mode button cycles an indicator triangle around the edge of the LCD to point at the various optional modes when photographing subjects different from conventional scenes.

The flash range is somewhat limited with ISO 100 film at the telephoto range, but goes out to a respectable 14.4 feet with ISO 400 film, so use of faster film is suggested.

Like the earlier similar looking versions, the Canon 130u II has an attractive gray and silver finish on a body that is easy to grip and hold properly.

Warranty
1 year