The PDR-M71 has a 3.2-megapixel imager with 2048 x 1536 resolution and the same advanced feature set as competitive digital cameras retailing for hundreds of dollars more. It's an ideal first digital camera or upgrade for users at all levels. Surprisingly lightweight (8.5 oz) and compact, the sporty PDR-M71 is a breeze to take along anywhere, whether it's a business trip, a ball game or a family picnic. Its fashionable all-black exterior makes a striking impression, while the ergonomic design fits easily in the palm of the user's hand.

The affordable PDR-M71 employs a Canon all-glass 2.8x optical zoom (35-98mm in 35mm) lens with macro, built-in five mode flash system with red-eye reduction; AVI movie/audio recording; SmartMedia storage; a full range of shooting modes and options; USB connectivity; and enhanced signal processing technology for fast, continuous shooting and quick operation.

The PDR-M71 is intuitively easy to understand. Its control dial and zoom are set so that they can be manipulated with either a thumb or index finger. Each function of the camera is clearly indicated on the control dial with an icon. In fully automatic mode the PDR-M71 focuses and adjusts its settings for perfect pictures every time. For the advanced shooter seeking greater flexibility, the camera has manual controls including Program AE, Full Manual (shutter and aperture), Shutter Priority AE, Aperture Priority AE, ISO sensitivity (100/200/400), flash (auto, red-eye, forced, slow sync, force off), white balance, and exposure compensation. Unique to "affordable" digital cameras, the PDR-M71 also has a histogram function that enables photographers to check the distribution of brightness levels on the LCD once a picture is taken.