Underwater Adventures with the Canon PowerShot D30: A Waterproof Camera Review

Learn about the Canon PowerShot D30, a durable and waterproof camera perfect for capturing stunning photos and videos while exploring the depths of the ocean. This comprehensive review delves into the specs, features, and performance of the D30, providing valuable insights for underwater photographers looking for a reliable tool to capture their amazing adventures.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Canon PowerShot D30 article cover photo

Key Features

Feb 12 2014

Announced

12 megapixels

Resolution

BrandCanon
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorBSI-CMOS
Weight218g
MSRP$329USD

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Overview of the PowerShot D30

For outdoor enthusiasts and scuba divers, having a camera that can withstand the challenges of water and extreme conditions is a must. The Canon PowerShot D30 is a top-of-the-line waterproof camera that promises to deliver exceptional image quality and durability, regardless of the environment you find yourself in. In this review, we'll explore the features and capabilities of the Canon PowerShot D30 and how it compares to other waterproof cameras in the market. So let's dive into the depths of the sea with the Canon PowerShot D30 and discover the beauty that lies underneath.

Canon PowerShot D30 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Canon PowerShot D30 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

Waterproof and shockproof
Good image quality
GPS tracking
Full HD video recording
Optical image stabilization
Good battery life
Built-in Wi-Fi
Easy to use interface
Fast autofocus
Great for outdoor and underwater photography

Cons

Limited zoom range
No manual focus
No RAW image format
Not ideal for low-light situations
Limited aperture range
Bulky and heavy design
Expensive compared to other compact cameras
Limited selection of accessories
No viewfinder
Limited screen size.

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Canon PowerShot D30

Weather sealed
Dimensions109 x 68 x 28mm
Weight218g
Thickness28mm
Weight
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Max
Thickness
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Weather Sealing

The Canon PowerShot D30 camera is equipped with environmental seals that make it resistant to weather, preventing water and dust from entering the camera. If you enjoy outdoor photography and need a camera that can handle extreme conditions, the PowerShot D30 is an excellent choice.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderNone
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution461k dots
Body typeCompact

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 461k dots. This makes the Canon PowerShot D30 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

Canon PowerShot D30 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the PowerShot D30 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Canon PowerShot D30 has a 12MP sized BSI-CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 12 pixels. Canon PowerShot D30 has a native ISO range of 100 - 3200 which can be boosted to null - null.

Key Features

Feb 12 2014

Announced

100 - 3200

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4000 x 3000 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Canon PowerShot D30 camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the PowerShot D30 is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: 1/2.3-inch

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/SDHC/SDXC
Battery Life300 shots
Battery ModelNB-6LH
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Canon PowerShot D30 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Canon PowerShot D30 uses the NB-6LH model of battery pack. This is rated for 300 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Canon PowerShot D30 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.

Shutter

The Canon PowerShot D30 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/1600s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Canon PowerShot D30 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 9 number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Canon PowerShot D30?

The Canon PowerShot D30 features a BSI-CMOS sensor

Is the Canon PowerShot D30 weather sealed?

Yes the PowerShot D30 does have weather sealing.

When was the Canon PowerShot D30 announced?

The Canon PowerShot D30 was announced on Feb 12 2014

Does the Canon PowerShot D30 have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the PowerShot D30 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Canon PowerShot D30?

The PowerShot D30 has a native ISO range of 100-3200, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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