Our verdict
With so many advanced compact cameras now available, the Canon PowerShot G15 may not hold the lofty position among enthusiast photographers that its predecessors did. That is not to say it isn’t an excellent compact camera, though, as it is certainly equal to, if not better than the competition.
The new 12.1-million-pixel CMOS sensor performs well, and the camera’s build and handling are as good as ever. However, the decision to remove the articulated mechanism on the screen is an odd one, despite the few millimetres it saves.
Increasing the maximum aperture of the lens is a worthy move for the G15, and it will be of real benefit in low light and to improve shallow-depth-of-field images. Overall, though, I’m just not sure there is enough that is new about the G15 to warrant G12 users upgrading, particularly if they are fans of the older model’s vari-angle screen.
Canon PowerShot G15 – Key features
Flash release
The internal pop-up flash is activated via a sliding switch on the camera’s top-plate.
Function button
This button can be customised for quick access to a number of different settings, including ISO sensitivity.
Hotshoe
The hotshoe is compatible with Canon’s full range of Speedlite flashguns.
Screen
As can be seen here, the rear 3in LCD screen is now fixed, with no hinge on the side to allow it to be flipped and rotated.
Accessories
With the PowerShot G series now so well established, a wide range of accessories is available for it. Apart from all Canon’s Speedlite flashguns, there is the TC-DC58E 1.4x teleconverter, as well as a range of 58mm filters that must be used with the LA-DC58L conversion lens adapter.
HDMI port
On the side of the PowerShot G15 is an HDMI port, which allows an HDMI cable to be connected so that images can be viewed via a compatible television screen.
Battery
The Canon PowerShot G15 uses the same NB10L lithium-ion rechargeable battery as the G12. Canon quotes the battery life as up to 350 shots.
Software
As usual, the G15 comes with Canon’s software suite, including DPP. To get the most out of raw images, I found it best to use minimal noise reduction and sharpening in DPP, and then export files as 16-bit TIFFs for further editing in Adobe Camera Raw and Lightroom.
