Canon PowerShot A1100IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch LCD (Green)

Canon PowerShot A1100IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch LCD (Green) Review

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I purchased the 1100IS for 2 main reasons, the optical view finder and the fact that it uses AA batteries. Most of the new 2010 model point and shoot cameras do not offer these features.
I find it difficult to take pictures using a display because one has to hold the camera away in order to see the subject of the shot. For me, this generates shake. Using the optical view finder, one brings in ones arms to rest against the body, and the camera rests against the nose/face, giving much more stability.
Also, one can pretty much forget about taking pictures on a real sunny day with just a display and no optical view finder. That has been my experience
Previous reviews have mentioned that the optical view finder is inaccurate, which I have to agree with. What you see is not what you get. Once you figure out the directions in which it is inaccurate, you have to make that adjustment when focusing the shot. It becomes second nature after a while.
Also, because I use the optical view finder, I turn off the display which greatly reduces the battery drain.

The AA batteries are appealing because I do not want to be tied to a proprietary battery that needs to be charged and costs + to replace. In my opinion, whether you use rechargeable AA’s or throw-a-ways, AA’s are much more practical.

I have had the A1100 a month as of 5/8/10, have taken 200+ pictures and I am very happy with it.
I’m thinking of buying a second one before they become unavailable, because the optical view finder and AA battery offerings are going to be very hard to find in the future. Just checked the price and it has gone up since I purchased my A1100.

I rate the A110IS a “4″ because I never rate anything a “5″, the inaccurate optical view finder and the abbreviated user manual. I know the manufacturers supply quick start manuals rather than the full user manuals, but it irritates me to have to go online to to find out how to do certain things. I printed the user manual, which irritated me even more.