The 7.1 megapixel Canon SD800 is a full feature digital camera released in 2006. Taking high quality images with the SD800 is easy thanks to the various shooting modes, 3.8x optical zoom and image stabilizing feature. As with all digital cameras, however, there are times when images will end up blurry or distorted. There are several reasons why pictures end up blurry when using a digital camera, including low light, movement by the subject and a shaky camera. The Canon SD800 provides several features to help with these issues.
Low Light
When in a low light situation, make sure that you are using the AF-Assist Beam. The AF-Assist Beam is a red light emitted from the camera that lights up the subject, making it easier for the auto focus feature of the SD800 to focus on the subject. Turn on the AF-Assist Beam by pressing the "FUNC./SET" button on the back of the camera and scrolling down to "AF-Assist Beam" using the down arrow button. Press the right arrow button until "On" is highlighted and press the "FUNC./SET" button again. The AF-Assist Beam will activate when you hold the shutter half way to focus on a subject.
Motion Shots
Eliminate blur when the subject of the photograph is in motion by using the "Kids & Pets" shooting mode. This mode was designed to increase the speed of the shutter for action shots, which eliminates blur. In addition, turn off the flash and make sure that you are in a location with plenty of natural light.
Camera Shake
Camera shake often occurs when the user's hand shakes when taking a picture. The Canon SD800 requires a user to press and hold the shutter button halfway before taking a picture to enable the auto focus feature. Many photographers find that holding the shutter button increases the amount of camera shake. If there is camera shake, turn on one of the image stabilizer settings on the SD800. To turn on the image stabilizer, press "FUNC./SET" and navigate to "IS Mode" using the down arrow button. Press the right and left arrow buttons to choose which image stabilizer mode you would like to use.
Another option that works well for photographers with shaky hands is to use the self-timer. The camera will take the picture at a predetermined time after you press the shutter button. This allows the user to press the shutter button and steady the camera before the picture is taken. For an even steadier shot, place the camera on a flat surface or tripod and use the self-timer.
Tags: AF-Assist Beam, shutter button, arrow button, image stabilizer, arrow button Press, auto focus