Sexy New Canon Cameras

You might want to wait until late March or April for a couple of really sexy new cameras from Canon, which has announced a bunch of new models in anticipation of next month's PMA show (where all the camera manufacturers unveil their new models).

The PowerShot TX1 may have a boxy retro shape that recalls the Super 8 cameras of yore (the ones that catalogued the childhoods of any Gen Xer or Baby Boomer), but its innards are state-of-the-art: It shoots 720p HD video, and yet also has a high-end 7.1 megapixel camera with 10x optical zoom, making it a hybrid camera that shines for both videos and stills. This parallels the features of Sanyo's recently announced HD2, but for $200 less (the TX1 will list for $500).

Also sexy: The updates on the always fashion-forward digital ELPH camera, which celebrated its tenth anniversary not so long ago. The Canon ELPH SD750 and SD1000 have a similarly boxy retro look and two-toned black and brushed metal color schemes. They're just over a half-inch thick but can do 7.1 megapixels and offer the usual on-the-go picture optimization features such as in-camera red-eye correction, image stabilization, and face detection (ideal for quick shots at those fashion parties that fashionplate owners of this camera will inevitably attend).

Good looks aside, Canon cameras tend to be solid, reliable, and, most importantly, easy to use. I nearly always recommend them to friends who want simple point-and-shoot digicams.

Both ELPH models are due in stores by the end of March, but there's no release date on the TX1 just yet. 

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