The new Canon G3X has manual control of aperture, shutter and ISO for video capture.

Canon has launched its first superzoom compact camera to feature a 1.0-type back-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor, the PowerShot G3 X. As the DSLR feature set slides down to meet the compact sector the G3X is able to flatter some shooters with manual control of the aperture, shutter and ISO for video capture (ISO goes up to 12,800, for video too?). A higher dynamic range is promised for audio with dedicated microphone and headphone jacks as well as a live HDMI output, so you can view your footage on external monitors as you shoot. Intelligent IS and their 5-axis Dynamic IS mode is also thrown in.

Features for everyone include a 25X optical zoom range on the nine blade, f/2.8-5.6 lens. The sensor is 1.0-type back-illuminated 20.2 MP CMOS offering frame rates up to 60p at HD resolutions. The G3X gets Canon’s DIGIC 6 processor which gives you a claimed 5.9 shots a second (how can you have 0.9 of a shot!).

For more casual film making, ‘Short Clip Movie’ helps you create four, five or six second clips with a variety of playback options, while ‘Story Highlights’ mode selects photos and movies of certain people, events or dates, before combining them into one short and shareable movie.

There is a very helpful 1.62 million dot resolution, 8.0cm (3.2”) tilt touch screen. The ‘Lens Control Ring’ can be assigned to different functions, such as focus, while ‘Full Manual Control’ plus RAW shooting and Bulb exposure mode are options. The body is classed as dust and drip-proof body, and for DSLR-like handling, the hot shoe allows you to attach a high-resolution electronic viewfinder.

Seen as the norm now in this price range is remote shooting via Wi-Fi with their new Camera Connect app lets you control the camera’s key functions from your smart device, including access to full manual control. NFC is available too.

The PowerShot G3 X will be available from July 2015 with an RSP of £799.99/€999.99.

Dedicated microphone and headphone jacks are included and a live HDMI output.

G3X

Canon's G3X Built For HD Video