The Canon S100 and Canon G12 have remained two of the most trusted compact cameras for underwater photography. With their ease of use, compact design, and impressive image quality, they earned loyal followings among both amateur and professional underwater shooters. Now, Canon has introduced its successors, the Canon S110 and Canon G15. The question many photographers are asking is whether these new models are revolutionary or simply incremental upgrades. It's important to examine how Canon’s design decisions have affected functionality, especially in the challenging and nuanced world of underwater photography. New features on paper don’t always translate into better performance beneath the surface. Sometimes, small changes have large and unintended consequences for usability, housing compatibility, or image output in underwater conditions.
Canon S110: A Familiar Face with Minor Adjustments
Canon’s update to the S100, the new S110, brings few surprises. The most notable change is the removal of the built-in GPS and the addition of built-in Wi-Fi. This trade-off is unlikely to affect underwater photographers since GPS functionality is mostly irrelevant beneath the ocean surface. Wi-Fi, while useful on land for transferring files or controlling the camera remotely, also holds little value underwater where signals cannot reach. Beyond these changes, the camera’s controls remain virtually identical to the S100. However, Canon made a subtle change to the camera’s body, which could have an important implication. This slight alteration in shape may mean that metal underwater housings built for the S100 will not fit the S110, requiring divers to purchase entirely new housings. These types of design tweaks are not uncommon in the compact camera world, but they create challenges for underwater photographers who invest heavily in housing systems. At its core, the S110 offers no revolutionary enhancements. There is no new sensor, no improved lens, and no meaningful performance upgrades for underwater use. It is a modest refresh that retains most of the S100’s DNA while potentially introducing cost and compatibility concerns. As always, the camera’s actual performance underwater will tell the full story, but based on specifications alone, the S110 appears to be a minimal evolution.
Canon G15: A Brighter Lens Promising Better Results
Where the S110 remains close to its predecessor, the Canon G15 introduces more significant changes that may appeal to serious underwater photographers. The standout feature is its new fast lens, offering an aperture range of F1.8 to F2.8. This is a substantial improvement over the G12’s F2.8 to F4.5 lens and holds real promise for both ambient light and low-light photography. The brighter lens allows for better depth of field control, enabling soft, blurred backgrounds and more flexibility in challenging light environments—both above and below water. The lens retains the 28–140mm range found in the G12, so users get the same zoom flexibility with better light transmission throughout. One of the key criticisms of the Canon G1X was its poor macro performance, which severely limited its utility underwater. The G15 seems to avoid this pitfall. According to Canon’s specifications, its macro capabilities are on par with the G12, suggesting the G15 can deliver sharp close-up shots critical for capturing marine life. The G15 also includes several modern upgrades: the sensor has been upgraded to a new CMOS model, image resolution has increased to 12 megapixels, and Canon claims faster autofocus performance. Video recording now supports Full HD 1080p, and the lens can zoom and refocus during recording—features absent in the G12. The camera is also slightly smaller, which may make it easier to handle underwater. However, not all changes are welcome. The ISO dial, once a convenient physical control on the G12, is now gone. Additionally, Canon has removed the articulating LCD screen, a tool that made it easier to compose shots from difficult angles—especially important when the camera is inside a housing. The camera includes an HDR mode for shooting high dynamic range images, which may help capture detail in high-contrast scenes, though its practical use underwater remains to be tested. With a retail price of $499, the G15 sits in the upper tier of compact cameras but offers serious potential for users who want flexibility without moving into the bulk and complexity of mirrorless or DSLR systems.
Early Impressions of the Canon S110 and G15
Initial assessments suggest that both the Canon S110 and Canon G15 will continue to serve underwater photographers well, albeit in different ways. The S110 maintains the solid performance and image quality that made the S100 popular, but without any breakthrough features. It is a safe choice for those who want reliability and compactness without venturing into unknown territory. The G15, on the other hand, brings clear improvements. The new fast lens stands out as a truly beneficial upgrade, especially when shooting in available light or when trying to achieve artistic effects with shallow depth of field. The macro capabilities, if as good as advertised, will help it retain the G12’s strong reputation. The market competition, however, is stiffer than ever. The Sony RX100 has entered the scene with a larger sensor and more advanced capabilities, challenging Canon’s dominance in the compact underwater segment. While the RX100 has gained attention for its performance, Canon’s approach with the G15 appears to be more conservative—preserving what works while incrementally improving optical performance and video features. This strategy will appeal to some users, particularly those with experience in Canon’s system or existing accessories. Yet for others seeking a leap forward in image quality or technology, the G15 may fall short compared to newer competitors. Ultimately, each camera must be tested in the environment it is intended for. Canon’s history in delivering reliable, high-performance compact cameras for underwater use earns these models serious consideration. Whether they can hold their place against a rising field of challengers will depend on performance in real-world use.
Housing Availability and Lens Compatibility
A critical factor in evaluating any compact camera for underwater use is the availability of high-quality housings and accessory support. Fortunately, both the Canon S110 and Canon G15 have strong housing options from trusted manufacturers. For the S110, brands such as Ikelite, Nauticam, and Recsea have already introduced housings. All three models support the use of wide-angle and macro wet lenses, giving photographers flexibility for different styles of underwater shooting. These housings vary in material, price, and ergonomics, allowing users to select one that fits their needs and budget. The Canon G15 also benefits from early support. Both Ikelite and Recsea have released housings, though with some important distinctions. Both housings allow for the use of macro lenses, but only Recsea’s design supports the use of a fisheye lens. This makes Recsea’s version the better choice for those interested in capturing wide-angle scenes such as reefscapes, wrecks, or schools of fish. The Recsea housing is also known for its compactness and precision engineering, which may appeal to advanced users. It’s worth noting that slight design changes between the G15 and the G12 mean older housings are not compatible with the new model. This is a common problem in compact cameras where even minor body alterations prevent reusing housings, which are often the most expensive component of a compact underwater setup. Photographers considering an upgrade must factor in the full cost of housing, ports, trays, and lenses. Still, Canon’s continued popularity ensures that most housing manufacturers will prioritize support for their models. Early adopters can feel confident that a full ecosystem is available and expanding.
The Canon S110: A Subtle Evolution in Compact Excellence
Canon's release of the S110 marked a deliberate continuation of its successful S-series line, designed for serious photographers who want professional-level control without the burden of a bulky DSLR. The S110 offers refinements rather than revolutions, but those refinements target the very essence of what compact camera users seek: better portability, modern connectivity, and performance in low-light conditions. While it shares the core DNA of its predecessor, the S100, the S110 introduces key enhancements that cater to today’s image-making needs.
Physically, the S110 stays true to the compact styling of the S-series. It’s pocket-friendly, cleanly designed, and keeps the familiar control ring around the lens—an iconic feature that allows quick manual adjustments. However, one of the major physical changes is the removal of the built-in GPS that was present in the S100. Instead, Canon introduces Wi-Fi functionality, signaling a shift toward instant sharing and mobile integration. This trade-off was met with mixed reactions: GPS lovers missed the convenience, but wireless advocates welcomed the connectivity to smartphones and tablets.
On the imaging side, the S110 retains the 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and the 5x optical zoom lens with a 24-120mm equivalent focal length and f/2.0-5.9 aperture range. Though the hardware is largely unchanged, Canon improves the DIGIC 5 processor, which enhances noise reduction and overall processing speed. The improvements become particularly noticeable in high ISO performance. The S110 handles low-light environments better than the S100, reducing graininess while preserving detail.
One of the standout upgrades is the inclusion of a 3.0-inch capacitive touchscreen, a major usability enhancement over the S100. With multi-touch gestures like pinch-to-zoom and swipe, the interface feels familiar to smartphone users and adds speed to playback and focusing. Canon maintains manual control for experienced shooters, but now layers intuitive touch support on top—offering flexibility to both advanced users and casual shooters alike.
Wi-Fi support also opens the door to new workflows. With Canon’s companion app, users can wirelessly transfer images, remotely trigger the shutter, or geotag photos using a connected phone’s GPS. In the field, this means easier backups, real-time sharing to social media, and less reliance on computer tethering. However, it's worth noting that Canon’s app interface in early releases was considered clunky and sometimes unreliable, a limitation that slightly undercut the otherwise powerful potential of this feature.
Video performance on the S110 remains competent, offering Full HD 1080p at 24fps and 720p at 30fps. The camera includes stereo sound recording and an optical zoom that functions during video capture. However, there’s no external mic jack or advanced video profiles, keeping it firmly within the enthusiast stills realm rather than catering to hybrid creators or serious videographers.
Battery life on the S110 is rated at approximately 200 shots per charge—adequate for casual use, but underwhelming for all-day shooters. Canon users who travel or dive often find themselves carrying two or more spares to stay powered throughout extended outings. Charging is done through a dedicated charger rather than USB, which maintains fast recharge times but lacks the convenience of mobile USB charging found in some newer models.
In practical use, the S110 excels in daylight, travel, and macro photography scenarios. The fast f/2.0 aperture at the wide end allows shallow depth of field and decent low-light shots. The lens is sharp, though corner softness can be observed when shooting wide open. The S110's image quality at ISO 80–400 is rich and detailed, while ISO 800–1600 remains usable with some noise reduction. Beyond ISO 1600, performance drops off, but the results are still acceptable for web use or small prints.
Autofocus on the S110 is fast and accurate in good lighting, though it may hunt slightly in dim conditions. Face detection, tracking autofocus, and manual focus (via ring control) round out a full complement of focusing options. For photographers used to DSLRs, the responsiveness is familiar enough to remain satisfying, and the compact form makes it a joy to carry into situations where bulkier cameras are impractical.
For underwater photographers—a strong segment of Canon’s PowerShot audience—the S110 remains a capable option. Canon and third-party manufacturers like Fantasea, Ikelite, and Recsea offer housings that allow full underwater access to the camera’s controls. The lens’s 24mm wide angle is perfect for reef scenes and underwater landscapes, while the fast aperture supports strobe-less shots in shallow water. The touchscreen becomes disabled underwater, but full button navigation is available on most housings.
One of the limitations underwater users often cite is the relatively short battery life, especially in cold-water dives. Another is the lack of full manual white balance controls in video mode, a useful tool for color correction in blue-dominated environments. Nevertheless, for entry-level underwater shooters or advanced hobbyists, the S110 remains one of the best compact options available due to its image quality, size, and control flexibility.
In summary, the Canon S110 is a refined evolution rather than a groundbreaker. Its upgrades—touchscreen, Wi-Fi, improved processing—respond directly to user expectations in an increasingly connected world. It maintains the beloved features of the S100, keeps the control ring for manual use, and performs well both topside and underwater. While it doesn’t cater to every wish, especially among power users, it strikes a solid balance between usability, portability, and performance.
The Canon G15: Bridging Tradition and Innovation
With the G15, Canon continues the legacy of the G-series, which has consistently targeted serious enthusiasts and professionals looking for DSLR-like control in a compact body. The G15 replaces the G12 and marks a significant step forward in both speed and lens design—two areas where compact cameras traditionally struggle. It maintains the rugged aesthetic of its predecessor but introduces a much faster lens, improved autofocus, and better video capabilities.
One of the most notable changes in the G15 is the lens. Canon replaces the older f/2.8-4.5 lens with a brighter f/1.8-2.8 equivalent—an impressive upgrade that dramatically improves low-light performance and depth-of-field control. With a zoom range of 28–140mm (5x optical), the G15 offers flexibility for everything from wide-angle landscapes to mid-telephoto portraits. Combined with the 1/1.7" 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 processor, the G15 delivers crisp, well-balanced images with Canon’s signature color rendering.
Another standout improvement is the camera’s responsiveness. Autofocus speeds have improved significantly compared to the G12. Canon integrates a 9-point AF system with face detection and tracking, offering more consistent performance in various lighting situations. The G15 is capable of capturing up to 10 fps in high-speed burst mode, although this is limited to short bursts of just 10 frames. Still, it’s a noticeable improvement for action and event shooters who want to freeze moments as they happen.
Physically, the G15 adopts a more streamlined design. It removes the vari-angle articulated screen of the G12 in favor of a fixed 3.0-inch LCD with 922k-dot resolution. While this change disappointed some users who appreciated the flexibility of tilting displays, others welcomed the slimmer profile and better durability. The optical viewfinder remains—a feature that’s increasingly rare in compact cameras—but it’s small and only covers 80% of the frame, making it more of a nostalgic inclusion than a precise framing tool.
In terms of manual control, the G15 continues the G-series tradition of offering extensive customization. Dual dials, dedicated exposure compensation, and customizable function buttons make it a natural transition for DSLR users who want to travel light without giving up manual settings. The menu interface is logical and deep, offering control over metering, white balance, color profiles, and bracketing.
Video capabilities on the G15 have been enhanced as well. It now supports 1080p Full HD at 24 fps, with stereo sound and optical zoom during recording. While it doesn’t offer manual exposure controls in video mode, the results are sharp, detailed, and stable—especially in well-lit conditions. The built-in microphone performs admirably for casual use, although advanced users will miss an external mic port.
One of the few drawbacks of the G15 is the lack of RAW video output or slow-motion options. While it excels as a stills camera, its video features lag behind some competitors who offer higher frame rates or manual video controls. Still, for the average user or enthusiast, the G15 provides high-quality video clips suitable for everyday use, travel vlogging, and documentation.
Battery life on the G15 is rated at approximately 350 shots per charge, far outpacing the S110 and making it more suitable for extended outings or professional use. The larger form factor accommodates a bigger battery and more physical controls, but still manages to remain compact enough for coat-pocket or small-bag carry.
The build quality of the G15 is sturdy, with a magnesium alloy body and tactile grip. It feels premium in hand, and its physical controls offer a satisfying click. This solid construction makes it a popular choice for fieldwork, journalism, and adventure travel—use cases where reliability and responsiveness are paramount.
For underwater photographers, the G15 represents a robust option with enhanced low-light performance. Housing manufacturers like Ikelite and Fantasea offer dive-ready enclosures with full manual access, and the bright f/1.8 lens is a game-changer in low-visibility conditions. The larger body allows for better ergonomic control underwater, and the high ISO performance pairs well with strobes or video lights. However, like the S110, users will need to set custom white balance manually for best color rendering below the surface.
In field tests, the G15 consistently produces vibrant JPEGs and flexible RAW files. Highlights are well controlled, shadows hold detail, and the camera’s metering system is reliable across varied scenes. From street photography to wildlife, the G15 captures fast-moving subjects with surprising accuracy and can hold its own in challenging conditions.
Despite its strengths, the G15 is not without competition. Enthusiasts comparing it to the likes of the Panasonic LX7, Sony RX100, or Olympus XZ-2 may note areas where Canon has taken a more conservative approach. The lack of an articulated screen, for example, is a dealbreaker for vloggers and macro shooters who rely on flexible angles. Others may wish for even higher resolution or a broader zoom range.
That said, the G15 strikes an excellent balance. It honors the G-series reputation for control, reliability, and optical quality while modernizing its performance envelope. The faster lens, better autofocus, improved processing, and solid video make it a formidable compact for nearly any shooting scenario.
The Canon G15: Bridging the Gap Between Compact and Professional
Canon’s PowerShot G series has long stood as a symbol of excellence in the realm of advanced compact cameras. With the G15, Canon takes a significant step forward by integrating many of the features photographers love about DSLRs into a smaller, lighter body that appeals to both amateurs and professionals. This part explores the Canon G15’s design philosophy, technical improvements, real-world performance, and the subtle evolution from its predecessor.
Evolving the G-Series Legacy
The Canon G15 arrives as a successor to the G12, a model well-regarded for its image quality and extensive manual controls. However, the G12 showed signs of age, particularly in its processing speed and low-light capabilities. With the G15, Canon chose to forgo certain features like the articulating LCD and instead doubled down on performance enhancements and portability. It’s a bold move that reflects Canon’s strategy: make a compact camera that does not try to replace DSLRs, but rather complements them.
Compact Form, Powerful Performance
At first glance, the G15 is noticeably slimmer than the G12, with a body that feels more streamlined and refined. The 3-inch LCD is now fixed, which allowed Canon to slim down the profile, making it more pocketable. While some may miss the flip-out functionality, others appreciate the enhanced portability. Its magnesium alloy build exudes durability, assuring photographers that it can handle the rigors of travel and active shooting environments.
Inside, the G15 features a 12.1MP 1/1.7” CMOS sensor, coupled with the DIGIC 5 image processor. This combination not only improves image quality and detail retention but also accelerates operation. Burst shooting is now a respectable 10 fps at full resolution, a huge jump over the G12’s modest speed. The upgraded AutoFocus system is faster and more accurate, especially in low light, making it ideal for street and documentary photography.
The f/1.8–f/2.8 Lens: A Game-Changer
One of the most celebrated features of the G15 is its new lens. With a 28–140mm (5x optical zoom) focal range and a bright f/1.8–f/2.8 aperture, this lens marks a significant step forward. It allows for better low-light photography without relying on high ISO settings, and it offers greater creative control over depth of field. Whether shooting portraits with pleasing background blur or fast action scenes, the lens delivers.
Unlike many compact cameras, which often feature slow, variable-aperture lenses, the G15 maintains its brightness even as you zoom. This consistency is crucial for both still photographers and those dabbling in video. Canon's use of precision optics ensures minimal distortion and chromatic aberration, contributing to clean, sharp images across the frame.
Manual Controls and Customization
Canon retains the enthusiast-friendly layout that defines the G-series. The G15 offers twin control dials, a customizable front dial, and dedicated buttons for ISO, exposure compensation, and focus. The control scheme mimics DSLR ergonomics in a more compact package. For users transitioning from full-size cameras, the familiarity in handling is both comforting and efficient.
Additionally, the G15 supports RAW format shooting, giving photographers full control during post-processing. This feature, often omitted in mid-tier compacts, is a crucial tool for professionals and serious hobbyists alike.
Optical Viewfinder and Flash System
The G15 continues the tradition of an optical viewfinder, although it's small and covers only about 80% of the frame. It’s not perfect, but in bright sunlight or situations where an LCD screen is impractical, it’s a welcome inclusion.
For lighting, the G15 includes a hot shoe mount compatible with Canon’s EX-series Speedlites. This feature expands the camera’s utility into studio work or advanced flash photography, where bounce and fill lighting can dramatically improve results.
Video Capabilities: Full HD Comes to the G-Series
While the G12 was limited to 720p video, the G15 embraces Full HD recording at 1080p/24fps with stereo sound. The video quality is smooth and sharp, and Canon’s inclusion of optical zoom during recording adds creative flexibility. Although it lacks manual video controls found in DSLRs, the footage is well-exposed, color-accurate, and suitable for casual filmmaking or supplementary B-roll.
The built-in microphone captures clean sound, and there’s a digital wind filter to reduce noise during outdoor shoots. Though there's no external mic input, the overall quality still meets the expectations of many content creators who want a compact camera that also handles video decently.
Battery Life and Storage
Battery life on the G15 is solid, rated for around 350 shots per charge when using the LCD. With power-saving settings and conservative use of the display, it can be stretched further. The camera uses SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and supports high-speed UHS-I for faster read/write performance.
Image Quality and Dynamic Range
The real test of any camera lies in its output. The G15 excels here, especially in good lighting. The photos exhibit excellent color rendition, strong contrast, and minimal noise up to ISO 800. At ISO 1600 and beyond, noise becomes noticeable, but the images remain usable for web and small prints.
The dynamic range is improved over the G12, capturing more detail in shadows and highlights. Canon’s processing engine also helps manage white balance and skin tones accurately, making it a reliable tool for portraits and travel photography alike.
Ideal Use Cases and Audience
The Canon G15 is perfect for a wide range of photographers. For DSLR users, it serves as a reliable secondary camera—capable of professional results without the weight. For enthusiasts, it’s a strong all-rounder that delivers in most conditions. Its performance, build quality, and user-friendly interface also make it suitable for educational settings and those learning manual photography.
Underwater Housing and Specialty Use
With the popularity of underwater photography on the rise, the G15 has also become a sought-after model for divers. Compatible third-party housings enable users to take the G15 beneath the surface, where its bright lens and fast autofocus prove invaluable. Its compact size allows for better maneuverability underwater, and the high-quality images it produces rival.
Canon S110 and G15: Final Features and User Experience
The Canon S110 and G15 round out Canon’s lineup of advanced compacts with a focus on delivering reliable performance and versatile features for everyday and specialized photography. Both models retain the strengths of their predecessors while introducing incremental improvements aimed at enhancing usability and image quality.
The S110’s inclusion of built-in Wi-Fi allows for quick image sharing and remote camera control through compatible devices, a feature increasingly important in today’s connected world. Despite removing GPS from the S100, Canon kept the S110 lightweight and compact, appealing to travelers and casual shooters who prioritize portability.
On the other hand, the G15 leans more toward enthusiast photographers who demand greater manual control and optical performance. The fast f/1.8–f/2.8 lens, improved sensor, and responsive autofocus combine to provide excellent results in a wide range of shooting conditions. Video enthusiasts will appreciate the ability to record full HD 1080p video with zoom and focus control during recording, a feature not commonly found in compact cameras of this class.
Both cameras offer various shooting modes and customization options, enabling photographers to tailor settings to their specific needs. From macro photography to wide-angle shots, each camera supports wet lenses and underwater housings, cementing their appeal to divers and underwater photographers. Canon’s commitment to robust accessory support helps extend the cameras’ capabilities beyond their built-in features.
Underwater Photography Potential
For underwater enthusiasts, the Canon S110 and G15 present compelling options. The S110’s compact size is ideal for casual diving and travel, while the G15’s brighter lens and faster autofocus make it suitable for capturing more demanding underwater scenes. Both cameras have access to a growing ecosystem of housings and wet lenses from reputable manufacturers, ensuring users can adapt their setups for wide-angle, macro, or fisheye photography underwater.
The cameras’ RAW shooting capability and manual controls are critical underwater, where lighting conditions can be unpredictable and post-processing flexibility is essential. The G15’s enhanced sensor and image processor deliver detailed, vibrant images even in challenging aquatic environments. The S110 offers similar strengths, with added convenience thanks to its Wi-Fi functionality for quick image transfers after dives.
Market Position and Competition
The Canon S110 and G15 enter a market where compact cameras face stiff competition from high-end smartphones and mirrorless systems. However, Canon’s strategy of focusing on optical performance, manual control, and specialized use cases like underwater photography allows these models to carve out a niche.
Competing cameras like the Sony RX100 series offer excellent image quality and larger sensors, but Canon’s strengths lie in its lens speed, ease of use, and extensive underwater accessory support. For photographers prioritizing portability combined with creative control, the S110 and G15 remain strong contenders.
Conclusion:
Canon’s announcement of the S110 and G15 highlights a balance between evolution and reliability. Neither camera revolutionizes the compact camera segment, but instead refines and enhances proven formulas. The S110 caters to users seeking a compact, connected camera with capable imaging, while the G15 appeals to enthusiasts who desire DSLR-like control and superior optics in a pocketable body.
In underwater photography and beyond, both cameras offer flexibility, quality, and solid performance, supported by robust accessory ecosystems. They embody Canon’s commitment to providing tools that meet the needs of diverse photographers without unnecessary complexity.
As the digital imaging landscape continues to evolve rapidly, the Canon S110 and G15 demonstrate that thoughtfully improved compacts still hold value. They prove that in a world of ever-increasing technology, sometimes steady refinement and attention to user needs create the most enduring tools for capturing life’s moments.