This PowerShot SD1200 IS review will go over the basic features of this low-cost sub-compact digital camera.

Doesn't it seem like everything just keeps getting smaller? And they expect big things in smaller digital cameras. Although point-and-shoot digital cameras have come a long way, they still do not match the professional grade photos of a D-SLR, where you have better lenses and more control over your settings. The problem with D-SLR is that you need to learn all about photography and how to use the different camera settings. And not everyone wants to learn these (or has the time to). Most users just want to point and shoot and let the camera worry about changing the internal settings.

Enter the PowerShot SD1200 IS - the most advanced sub-compact camera giving ultimate freedom to the user while it delivers great photos. The best part of the SD1200 IS is its size, about the size of a deck of cards, and its light-weight. Taking this camera just about anywhere is a no-brainer.

It comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for a long battery life.

It also comes with 17 preprogrammed shooting modes - maybe not as many as other compact cameras, but enough to capture just about any photo situation. 'Smart Auto' mode is the easiest - letting the camera decide everything to set to give you the best picture. Other modes are for specific types of pictures, like 'Beach', 'Snow', and 'Fireworks', that set the camera correctly to get perfect shots every time.

Another feature that must be mentioned in my PowerShot SD1200 IS review is the optical image stabilizer. No more blurry and fuzzy photos caused by camera shake. This piece of technology automatically recognizes this type of movement and compensates for it.

And now, the Power Shot SD1200 IS most attractive feature - its price! This is the lowest priced, quality sub-compact digital camera you will find in the market by a known quality manufacturer.

Back to physical features, the SD1200 IS has a decent size LCD screen and a separate view finder. Not everyone likes to use the LCD screen to compose pictures, especially people who grew up with a view finder. Another great thing about the view finder is that it doesn't eat up the battery like the LCD screen does. So even if you like using the LCD screen, if your batteries are running low, switch to the view finder and you'll extend your battery life.

On the not-so-good side of my PowerShot SD1200 IS review, this camera does not come with a printed manual. This presents a problem if you are not near a computer when you are trying to figure something out with your camera. User manuals are great to keep with you while shooting.

But the user manual situation is minor compared to what I consider the biggest problem with the SD1200IS - shooting in low-light conditions. To compensate for the low light, the ISO (film speed/sensor sensitivity) needs to be raised. And anything above ISO 400 produces more noise than I think is acceptable. Below ISO 400, the pictures are beautiful and crisp. But at ISO 400 and higher, the graininess is very apparent.

In conclusion of my Canon Powershot SD1200 IS Review, I found it to be a very simple, straightforward and easy to use little camera. For the most part, this camera is exceptional - superb photos in most situations and the Smart Auto mode properly sets the internal settings to get the best picture possible. Overall, for the price, features, and size, this camera is a steal.