The Canon PowerShot 350, launched in 1997, stands out for its unconventional design and unusual features. Here's a look at one of the neatest cameras of yesteryear.
Coming to you from Gordon Laing of Dino Bytes, this insightful video explores the Canon PowerShot 350, a quirky early digital compact camera built upon Panasonic’s VZ-XP1 model. Laing highlights that although Canon was already an imaging powerhouse, the PowerShot 350 wasn't actually their own creation but an OEM product adopted to quickly test market demand. This camera sported a modest 1/3 megapixel sensor, fixed 43mm equivalent lens, and a distinctive square-like body shape. It also featured Canon’s first built-in LCD screen, which uniquely tilted, offering new composition possibilities despite its low resolution and sluggish refresh rate.
In addition to its distinct design, the PowerShot 350 had interesting practical elements, like its macro focusing capability managed by a lever rather than digital controls. Laing discovered that this mechanism allowed continuous manual adjustments, although precise focus required a careful touch given the low-resolution preview. The camera was powered by three AA batteries—an appealing option for convenience even today—though Laing encountered challenges due to corrosion in his particular model. Still, with a bit of effort and modern batteries, he brought it back to life.
The PowerShot 350 used CompactFlash cards, signaling Canon’s shift from bulkier storage solutions to a smaller, more practical format. Laing's test shots illustrate the camera’s output at various quality settings, showcasing both its limits and charm. The controls, abundant yet entirely button-based without menus, reflect a period when digital cameras were transitioning from experimental devices to mainstream products. Such early models were essential stepping stones, informing Canon’s future design direction.
Laing’s exploration isn't merely about nostalgia; it's a practical demonstration of what vintage digital cameras can still offer today. He discusses the trade-offs inherent in these older models—like limited resolution and tricky manual adjustments—but emphasizes that their value lies in the unique photographic experience rather than sheer image quality. It’s about appreciating the simplicity and constraints that shaped photographic creativity during digital’s infancy. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Laing.
