Our Flashback Friday Instagram posts reminisce with colorful, retro point-and-shoot digital cameras from the early 2000s. These stylish, curvy cameras have a cool, fashion-forward aesthetic. Moreover, they will provide you with a “different imaging experience” from today’s tech-rich cameras. Camera stores continue to see demand for these early digital point-and-shoot models. Anyone can enjoy these retro cameras. This week’s featured P&S is the Canon PowerShot SD990 IS announced in September 2008. 
Canon PowerShot SD990 IS
Canon intended the SD990 IS to reenergize its PowerShot Digital Elph compact range. The flagship 14.7MP camera brought several “firsts” to the line. They included manual control and a striking design in black or traditional silver. The camera also features a 3.7x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilization, a 2.5-inch LCD with a wide viewing angle, and an optical viewfinder.
At its core is a Digic 4 image processor, for faster performance and clean images in a greater number of scenarios. However, for those looking to take control, the SD990 IS offers a 2008 first: a manual mode that allows control of shutter speed and aperture. Moreover, for split-second photo opportunities, a second new mode—QuickShot—uses the optical viewfinder for framing and focusing, virtually eliminating shutter lag.
Additionally, the Digic 4 drives several intelligent technologies. People shots benefit from improved Face Detection technology, which even detects faces positioned at an angle to the camera, or in profile. Face Select & Track tracks a subject more accurately. Further, a new FaceSelf-timer function, which automatically triggers the shutter shortly after a new face enters the frame, makes group shots and selfies easier.
Plus, Canon developed its improved Motion Detection technology to deliver sharp results by registering camera and subject movement, then automatically adjusting ISO to prevent blur. Blur is further guarded against by new servo AF, which continuously adjusts focus on subjects moving toward or away from the camera. Also in the mix is Canon’s i-Contrast feature, which brings out details in dark areas of pictures without blowing out lighter areas.
The camera also records 30-fps VGA video. Enhanced compression technology allows it to store 40% more footage to its memory card than its predecessor, with no reduction in video quality. SRP at launch: $299.
