You must read this article before buying Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS 12 MP CMOS Digital Camera!

I purchased this item through Amazon and received it yesterday from Ace Photo Digital, and I am very happy with my purchase so far. The camera arrived quickly (at the early end of the expected delivery window) and was carefully packaged. I charged up the battery and 45 minutes later got to work.

I got the black finish option. It isn’t a smooth finish, but a little rough, like fine-grit sandpaper. I really like it because the camera is quite small in stature, and the finish allows for a sure grip at all times. After a brief initial set-up (set date/time and select language) I started snapping some shots in auto-mode. Wow, what a clean picture. I came from a 6 mega-pixel point and shoot, so 12 mega-pixel unit is a healthy upgrade. Pictures are sharp, balanced and vibrant, even in the low lighting around my place. I stepped outside and snapped a few more in the sunlight and found more of the same.

Having mastered auto-mode (and who can’t really?) I opened up the menu and started playing with some of the features. I’ve seen some reviews complain that putting the camera into a particular mode is too cumbersome, and I have a couple thoughts on that. Number one, the menu is optimally set up, easy to read and navigate. Icons illustrate the various modes, with text alongside to explain what each mode is and what it does. Selecting a mode was simple. Number two, as far as selecting a mode on the fly, any pro photographer will tell you one of the secrets to taking great pictures is planning ahead. I really don’t know what Canon could do to make it any faster, other than assigning individual buttons on the camera for each mode, and that’s not exactly feasible. Several features are included, so unleash your creativity! Video mode is nice as well, easy to use and shoots great video.

Only two negatives I can think of for this purchase is something that plagues too many electronics when buying online. I want to know exactly what’s in the box, and I couldn’t find that anywhere in the product description. I ordered an SD card along with my purchase and I’m glad I did, because one is not included with the camera (that may very well be standard procedures these days, but I’m pretty sure my old Canon came with a card). So I will tell you what IS in the box: camera, manuals, cd-rom, RCA cable to connect with a tv, USB cable, one battery, and one wall-charger. The second drawback is that the LCD display screen is a bit exposed. In this small package space is a premium and it seems like the screen is pushed outward a little to compensate. I’m looking forward to the arrival of my protective case.

Overall, I’m very happy with this purchase. Tons of features, easy to use, excellent pictures and a great price. Highly recommended.