The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS is a versatile bridge camera with a 65x zoom lens, 16.1MP CMOS sensor, and DIGIC 6 processor, ideal for enthusiasts and professionals.
1.1 Overview of the Camera
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS is a high-performance bridge camera designed for photography enthusiasts. It features a 65x optical zoom lens (21-1365mm equivalent), a 16.1MP CMOS sensor, and the DIGIC 6 image processor; This combination ensures high-quality images and excellent low-light performance. The camera supports RAW format capture, manual controls, and offers advanced features like image stabilization and a vari-angle LCD screen. Its compact design and robust feature set make it ideal for capturing a wide range of subjects, from landscapes to wildlife, with precision and ease.
1.2 Key Features and Benefits
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers a 3-inch vari-angle LCD screen and an electronic viewfinder for flexible shooting. It features built-in Wi-Fi for easy image sharing and remote camera control. The ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling, while the intuitive controls simplify operation. With its high-resolution video capabilities and advanced autofocus, this camera is perfect for capturing dynamic moments. Its compact size and robust feature set make it an ideal choice for photographers seeking versatility and high-quality results without the bulk of a DSLR.
Key Specifications of the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features a 16.1MP CMOS sensor, DIGIC 6 processor, 65x optical zoom, and a 3-inch LCD screen, making it ideal for photography and video.
2.1 Sensor and Image Processor
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features a 16.1-megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor, designed to deliver high-quality images with excellent low-light performance. Paired with the DIGIC 6 image processor, it ensures fast processing, reduced noise, and vibrant colors. This combination enables the camera to capture detailed photos and videos, even in challenging lighting conditions. The sensor’s high sensitivity and advanced processing capabilities make it suitable for both casual and professional photography, providing users with flexibility and reliability across various shooting scenarios.
2.2 Lens and Zoom Capabilities
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS is equipped with a powerful 65x optical zoom lens, covering a focal range of 21mm to 1365mm (35mm equivalent). This extensive zoom range makes it ideal for capturing everything from wide-angle landscapes to distant subjects. The lens is supported by Canon’s Optical Image Stabilizer, which minimizes camera shake and blur, especially at maximum zoom. Additionally, the camera features a 4x digital zoom, further extending its reach. This combination of optical and digital zoom capabilities ensures versatility for photographers, allowing them to shoot with precision and clarity in various scenarios.
2.3 Image Stabilization System
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features an advanced Optical Image Stabilizer, designed to reduce camera shake and blur caused by hand movement or low-light conditions. This system ensures sharper images, especially when using the camera’s 65x zoom. The stabilization works by shifting the lens elements to compensate for movement, providing clear results in both still photography and video recording. This technology is particularly beneficial for capturing distant subjects or in situations where a tripod is not available, making it a valuable feature for photographers seeking steady and precise shots.
2.4 LCD Screen and Viewfinder
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features a 3-inch vari-angle LCD screen with a resolution of 922,000 dots, allowing for flexible shooting and easy composition from various angles. Additionally, the camera includes an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 202,000 dots, providing a clear and convenient way to frame shots, especially in bright lighting conditions. The LCD screen offers adjustable brightness, ensuring visibility in different environments. However, the screen is not touch-sensitive, and the EVF does not offer a particularly high resolution compared to higher-end models, balancing functionality with portability and affordability.
2.5 ISO Range and Low-Light Performance
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers an ISO range of 100 to 6400, enabling versatile shooting in various lighting conditions. The Digic 6 image processor enhances low-light performance, reducing noise and capturing sharp images. While the camera performs well in moderate low-light scenarios, higher ISO settings may introduce visible noise, especially in very dark environments. This balance makes the SX60 HS suitable for everyday photography while ensuring decent results in challenging lighting conditions without compromising portability and affordability.
Getting Started with the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS
Unboxing and setting up your SX60 HS involves charging the battery, inserting a memory card, and familiarizing yourself with the camera’s controls and menu system for basic operations.
3.1 Unboxing and Initial Setup
When you unbox the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS, you’ll find the camera, lens cap, battery, charger, shoulder strap, and user manual. Insert the NB-10L battery and a compatible SD card (up to 128GB). Charge the battery fully before first use. Power on the camera and follow the on-screen prompts to set the language, date, and time. Familiarize yourself with the mode dial, zoom lever, and control dial. Refer to the manual for detailed guidance on initial setup and customization options to prepare your camera for shooting.
3.2 Charging the Battery and Memory Card Recommendations
Charge the NB-10L battery using the provided charger for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Use SD, SDHC, or SDXC memory cards up to 128GB. For optimal performance, especially in continuous shooting or video recording, choose high-speed cards (UHS-I or higher). Always format new cards in the camera before use to ensure compatibility and proper function. Refer to the manual for detailed instructions on charging and card recommendations to maximize your camera’s performance and storage capabilities.
3.3 Basic Camera Controls and Layout
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features an intuitive control layout designed for ease of use. The mode dial on top allows quick access to shooting modes like Auto, P, Av, Tv, M, and more. A control dial near the shutter button adjusts settings like aperture and shutter speed. The rear offers buttons for menu, playback, and quick settings. The ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling, with a grip that fits securely in the hand. The electronic viewfinder and vari-angle LCD screen provide flexibility in framing shots; This layout balances functionality and user-friendliness, making it accessible for photographers of all skill levels while maintaining advanced capabilities.
Shooting Modes and Settings
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers various shooting modes, including Auto, Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual, allowing users to customize settings for optimal results.
4.1 Automatic Shooting Modes
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features a range of automatic shooting modes designed to simplify photography. Smart AUTO mode intelligently selects settings based on the scene, while Scene Modes like Portrait, Landscape, and Night Scene optimize results for specific subjects. The camera also includes a Hybrid AUTO mode, which combines still images and video into a single clip. Additionally, Intelligent IS (Image Stabilization) ensures sharp images by automatically adjusting for camera shake and motion blur. These modes make it easy for users of all skill levels to capture high-quality photos without manual adjustments.
4.2 Manual Shooting Modes (P, Av, Tv, M)
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers manual shooting modes for advanced control. Program Mode (P) allows automatic settings with user adjustments. Aperture Priority (Av) lets you set the aperture, while Shutter Priority (Tv) enables manual shutter speed control. Full Manual (M) mode grants complete control over both aperture and shutter speed. These modes cater to experienced photographers seeking precision and creative freedom, enabling fine-tuned adjustments for optimal results in various lighting conditions and artistic compositions.
4.3 Customizing Shooting Settings
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS allows extensive customization of shooting settings to suit individual preferences. Users can adjust exposure compensation, bracketing, and white balance for precise control over image output. Custom buttons can be assigned to frequently used functions, streamlining workflow. The My Menu feature enables quick access to favorite settings, enhancing efficiency. Additionally, RAW image capture and advanced autofocus options provide further creative flexibility, making the camera adaptable to various shooting styles and professional demands. These customization options empower photographers to tailor the camera to their unique needs.
Advanced Features and Customization
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers advanced features like RAW image capture, custom buttons, and My Menu setup for personalized control, enhancing shooting efficiency and creativity.
5.1 RAW Image Capture and Processing
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS supports RAW image capture, allowing photographers to preserve maximum image detail. RAW files enable advanced post-processing through software like Digital Photo Professional. To access this feature, navigate to the Image Quality menu and select RAW instead of JPEG. This format is particularly beneficial for professional editing, ensuring higher quality and flexibility in adjusting settings such as exposure and color balance. Utilizing RAW enhances creative control and is ideal for capturing intricate details in both bright and low-light conditions.
5.2 Custom Buttons and My Menu Setup
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS allows users to customize buttons and create a personalized My Menu for quick access to frequently used settings. Assign functions like ISO, white balance, or focus modes to buttons for streamlined operation. The My Menu feature enables you to organize up to six settings in a dedicated menu, simplifying workflow. This customization enhances efficiency, allowing photographers to focus on composition and capture moments effortlessly. Additionally, users can save custom settings for quick recall, ensuring a tailored shooting experience.
5.3 Exposure Compensation and Bracketing
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers exposure compensation, adjustable in 1/3-stop increments, ranging from -3 to +3 EV. This feature allows precise control over brightness to achieve the desired exposure. Additionally, the camera supports Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB), capturing multiple shots at different exposures to merge later for HDR. Bracketing is ideal for high-contrast scenes, ensuring detail retention in both shadows and highlights. Users can select up to three shots with exposure differences of ±1, ±2, or ±3 stops, providing flexibility for creative post-processing. This feature is especially useful for landscape and architectural photography.
Video Recording Capabilities
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS records 1080p Full HD video at 60fps, offering smooth motion and vibrant colors. The 65x zoom enables capturing distant subjects in detail, while the DIGIC 6 processor ensures high-quality video performance. Additionally, the camera supports an external microphone jack for enhanced audio recording, making it a versatile option for both stills and video enthusiasts. The vari-angle LCD screen further aids in framing and reviewing footage, providing flexibility for creative videography.
6.1 Video Resolution and Frame Rates
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers 1080p Full HD video recording at 60fps, ensuring smooth and detailed footage. It also supports 720p HD at 30fps for smaller file sizes. With a built-in microphone, the camera captures clear audio, and an external microphone jack is available for enhanced sound quality. The vari-angle LCD screen allows for easy framing and reviewing of videos, making it ideal for creative videography. This feature-rich camera is perfect for capturing high-quality videos with precision and flexibility.
6.2 Advanced Video Features and Settings
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers advanced video features, including Movie Servo AF for continuous autofocus during recording and manual focus control for precise adjustments. The camera supports Dynamic IS, which stabilizes footage even when moving or handheld. Audio settings include a wind filter and attenuator to reduce noise, while an external microphone jack enhances sound quality. Time-lapse and slow-motion modes add creative options, and video snapshot captures short clips for easy sharing. These features make the SX60 HS a powerful tool for videographers seeking professional-grade control and flexibility.
Connectivity and Sharing
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features Wi-Fi and NFC for seamless image transfer and sharing. It also supports HDMI output for connecting to external displays and devices.
7.1 Wi-Fi and NFC Connectivity
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS supports Wi-Fi and NFC, enabling wireless image transfer and camera control. Users can connect to smartphones or tablets via the Canon Camera Connect app.
With Wi-Fi, you can share photos directly to social media or cloud storage. NFC allows quick pairing with compatible devices for seamless transfer and remote shooting capabilities.
The camera supports 802.11b/g/n standards, ensuring stable and fast connections. This feature enhances workflow and sharing options for photographers on the go.
7.2 Transferring Images to a Computer
Transferring images from the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS to a computer is straightforward. Use a USB cable to connect the camera directly or transfer wirelessly via Wi-Fi.
With the Canon Camera Connect app, photos can be sent to your computer or shared online. The camera also supports wireless transfer to compatible devices.
For wired transfers, use the supplied USB cable and Canon’s ImageBrowser EX software for easy image management and editing.
7.3 HDMI Output and External Display
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features an HDMI output, enabling users to connect the camera to an external display or HDTV. This allows for high-quality playback of photos and videos on a larger screen. To use this feature, locate the HDMI port on the camera and connect it to the external device using an HDMI cable. Ensure the camera is set to playback mode, and adjust settings as needed for optimal display. This feature is ideal for reviewing images or sharing content with others in a more immersive way.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regularly clean the lens and camera body to prevent damage. Check for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and troubleshoot common issues by resetting settings to default.
8.1 Cleaning the Camera and Lens
Regularly clean the camera and lens to maintain image quality. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the lens and camera body. Avoid touching the lens surface, as oils from skin can leave smudges. For stubborn marks, lightly dampen the cloth with water, but never apply liquids directly to the lens. Use a blower to remove dust from the lens and camera sensors. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they may damage the coatings. Cleaning ensures sharp images and prevents scratches or damage to the camera’s components.
8.2 Common Issues and Error Messages
Common issues with the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS include blurry viewfinders, black screens, or duplicate photos during uploads. These often result from improper camera settings or lens malfunctions. Error messages like “Memory Card Error” indicate card corruption or incompatibility. To resolve, format the card in-camera or replace it. For connectivity issues, reset Wi-Fi settings or update firmware. Always refer to the manual for specific solutions, ensuring optimal performance and troubleshooting common problems effectively to maintain camera functionality and image quality.
8.3 Updating the Camera Firmware
Updating the firmware on your Canon PowerShot SX60 HS enhances performance and adds features. Visit Canon’s official website, navigate to the support section, and search for your camera model. Download the latest firmware, ensuring it’s from a trusted source. Extract the files and copy them to an SD card formatted in the camera. Insert the card, access the menu, and select the firmware update option. Follow on-screen instructions, ensuring the camera has sufficient power. Avoid interruptions during the update to prevent damage. After completion, restart the camera and verify functionality.
FAQs and Common Questions
Frequently asked questions include inquiries about RAW capture, manual focus usage, compatible SD cards, and image stabilization functionality, addressing common user concerns and operational queries effectively.
9.1 Can the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS Shoot in RAW?
Yes, the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS supports RAW image capture, allowing for greater flexibility in post-processing. To enable RAW shooting, navigate to the Menu, select Image Quality, and choose the RAW option. The camera saves RAW files in the .cr2 format, providing uncompressed image data for advanced editing. This feature is particularly beneficial for photographers seeking precise control over their images, making it an excellent choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
9.2 How to Use Manual Focus
To use manual focus on the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS, switch the camera to MF mode using the mode dial. Locate the AF/MF button on the side of the lens barrel and press it to activate manual focus. Use the control dial to adjust the focus manually. The camera will display a magnified view of the selected focus area for precise adjustments. You can also use the zoom lever to further refine your focus. This feature provides precise control over focus, ideal for creative or macro photography.
9.3 What SD Cards Are Compatible?
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. For optimal performance, use cards with a minimum speed class of U1 or U3 to ensure smooth image and video capture. The camera is compatible with cards up to 128GB or higher, depending on the manufacturer. Reputable brands like SanDisk, Lexar, and Toshiba are recommended for reliability. Always format the card in the camera before use to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS is a powerful bridge camera offering a 65x zoom, 16.1MP sensor, and DIGIC 6 processor, ideal for enthusiasts and professionals. Its versatility, RAW support, and image stabilization make it a standout choice. The comprehensive manual ensures easy navigation of its advanced features, making it a great tool for capturing high-quality images and video.
10.1 Summary of Key Features
The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS excels with its 65x optical zoom lens, covering 21-1365mm, and optical image stabilization for sharp images. It features a 16.1MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 processor, ensuring excellent low-light performance. The camera supports RAW image capture and manual controls, offering flexibility for advanced users; Its 3-inch LCD screen and electronic viewfinder enhance compositional versatility. With Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, sharing images is seamless. This bridge camera balances portability with professional-grade features, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking high-quality results without the bulk of DSLRs.
10.2 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Camera
To maximize your Canon PowerShot SX60 HS experience, explore its manual modes for creative control and use RAW format for superior image editing flexibility. Utilize the 65x zoom and image stabilization for crisp telephoto shots. Customize buttons and My Menu for quick access to frequently used settings. Experiment with various shooting modes like HDR or Night Scene for unique results. Regularly review your photos on the LCD and adjust settings as needed. Finally, take advantage of the camera’s Wi-Fi for seamless image sharing and backups.
