Canon has withdrawn most of its sport sponsorship and is moving into the fashion arena; its advertising now looks like a perfume advert, and the IXUS range is at the forefont of its style-orientated strategy.

Features
This 6MP model offers little in the way of radical features: it’s got a 3x zoom, program-based modes and little to worry the beginner. Among the scene modes is a Kids and Pets mode, so the camera is clearly intended for family use, as well as for the fashion junkie.

Design
This is a gorgeous piece of electronic jewellery, with a milled criss-cross motif around the lens, and a ‘Samurai’ swoop motif on the top plate. The backplate boasts a 3in screen – Canon’s biggest yet – which is reasonably sharp.

Performance
There’s little to criticise the IXUS for – it’s responsive and, for general snapshots, performs as well as the best of them.

Image Quality
Don’t expect miracles – this isn’t an SLR with RAW features; but it is a solid point-and-shooter, with warm colours and good sharpness, if held steadily. However, there is a danger of camera shake, especially in low light.

Value For Money
IXUS cameras don’t come cheap, but then they’re a desirable fashion brand, with quality design and materials. This is a camera for the label junkie – which isn’t a bad thing, it just costs more.