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Canon 1274B001 PowerShot SD40 7.1MP Digital Elph Camera — main product image
Canon

Canon 1274B001 PowerShot SD40 7.1MP Digital Elph Camera

★★★★★3.0 (33 reviews)
1MP

An ultra-compact 7.1MP digital camera with DIGIC III processing and face-detection autofocus in a stylish pocket-sized body.

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Overview

The Canon PowerShot SD40 Digital Elph is an ultra-compact point-and-shoot camera that prioritizes portability and simplicity above all else. With a 7.1-megapixel sensor and Canon's DIGIC III image processor, it captures clean, color-accurate photos in a body small enough to carry every day without a second thought. The 2.4x optical zoom lens covers basic framing needs for everyday snapshots, while the Face-Priority AF/AE system automatically detects and optimizes exposure for human subjects, making it especially handy for portraits and group photos.

Additional features like the 3:2 Guide mode and Widescreen shooting mode add creative framing options directly in-camera. The Olive Gray finish gives the SD40 a refined look that sets it apart from more generic silver or black compacts. While its specifications are modest compared to modern cameras, the SD40 remains a charming example of Canon's Digital Elph design philosophy — delivering reliable image quality in the smallest possible package for users who value convenience and style over advanced controls.

Key Features

7.1-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 15 x 20-inch prints

2.4x optical zoom; 1.8-inch LCD display

9-point AiAF, single point AF, and Face-priority AF, which detects faces and focuses on them

Stores images on SD cards; powered by Lithium-ion rechargeable battery NB-4L

Now supports SDHC cards (Secure Digital cards with over 2 GB capacity)

Specifications

Resolution
7.1 Megapixels
Optical Zoom
2.4x
Image Processor
DIGIC III
Special Features
Face-Priority AF/AE, 3:2 Guide, Widescreen Mode
Color
Olive Gray

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Extremely compact and lightweight body fits in virtually any pocket
  • DIGIC III processor delivers responsive performance and improved image quality for its class
  • Face-Priority AF/AE simplifies portrait shooting with automatic face detection
  • Stylish Olive Gray finish gives the camera a distinctive look among point-and-shoots
  • Simple controls make it accessible for casual photographers who want quick, easy shots

👎 Cons

  • 7.1 megapixels is low resolution by current standards, limiting print sizes and cropping flexibility
  • 2.4x optical zoom provides a very limited zoom range
  • No manual exposure controls restrict creative shooting options
  • Small LCD screen makes reviewing images and composing shots more difficult
  • Older technology lacks features like HD video recording, WiFi, and image stabilization

Frequently Asked Questions

The SD40 is one of Canon's smallest Digital Elph models, designed to slip easily into a pocket or small bag for effortless portability.
DIGIC III is Canon's image processor, which provides faster shot-to-shot performance, improved noise reduction, and better color accuracy compared to earlier processors in the Elph line.
It automatically detects human faces in the frame and adjusts focus and exposure to ensure subjects are sharp and properly lit, which is especially useful for portraits and group shots.
Yes, it has a 2.4x optical zoom lens, providing a modest zoom range suited to everyday snapshots and casual portraits.
The 3:2 Guide displays a framing guide on the LCD to help you compose photos in the standard 3:2 print aspect ratio, reducing the need to crop when making prints.

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