The
Canon PowerShot A5 is wrapped in a duralumin metal skin,
making this diminutive camera one of the most compact, yet rugged, cameras
on the market today.
A little bit thicker and bigger than a deck of playing
cards, the PowerShot A5 offers a good ergonomic design
and control system in a discreet, but definitely attractive
packaging.
All main functions are accessed via a dial control located next to the
chrome shutter release. This is almost the same control as is found on
the PowerShot Pro 70, but this one offers an extra: panoramic
mode. This mode is used to make sure frames can be stitched together,
using special software included with the camera.
The
main dial is used to turn on the camera, playback images, access the panoramic
function, and connect to a PC. With the LCD screen activated, another
button on the back activates the menu options.
An LCD display panel, situated on the other side of the
camera's top, serves to remind of: quality modes; flash
modes; beep setting; and images remaining.
The design is very clean, and while compact, is still easy to use. Ergonomically,
this is a camera that works. It can literally be slipped in a pocket or
a purse, and used unobtrusively.
