Field-test of the Canon Prima Zoom 76 AF 35mm compact. Canon has introduced a new model to its Prima range of 35mm cameras that is stylish in looks and high on performance yet priced at a very competitive level - the Prima Zoom 76. The new model incorporates a 2x zoom in a full flat body finished in a white silver casing. Metallic trim around the lens barrel and a stainless steel cap round off the sophisticated look of the camera. A big viewfinder and LCD panel coupled with a simple-to-use Mode Dial makes the camera ideal for quick and easy photography. The Big Viewfinder, positioned directly above the lens, eliminates left-right parallax, provides a brighter, easier-to-see image and offers more ease of use to people wearing glasses. The Mode Dial, due to its ergonomic positioning on the camera, enhances easy operation. Switching the camera on, choosing among four flash functions or setting the self-timer can easily be handled in a single dial movement. A convenient LCD on the top plate allows the user to check the film and battery status. The Prima Zoom 76 has an accurate three-point AiAF focusing system, always ensuring a sharp main subject in a wide variety of conditions. The two aspherical lenses provide high contrast and high image quality. There are altogether 6 elements in 6 groups construction for the lens. The Canon Prima Zoom 76 The back view of the Zoom 76     Close-up of the Mode Dial The viewfinder is just above the dial A full range of flash modes are included; in full sunlight with the flash-on mode the camera gives beautiful pictures with dark shadow areas illuminated, while with the flash-off mode, high quality pictures can be made of moody interiors, for instance. The Prima Zoom 76 comes with automatic film speed setting, built-in flash, automatic red-eye reduction and self-timer. Its overall dry weight is only 230 grams, without battery. However, unlike the Prima Super 120, reviewed in issue No 44, there is no slow-sync flash mode with the Prima Zoom 76, a feature where the more creative users can take advantage of whenever the needs arise. More of this later. The slim and lightweight package of the Prima Zoom 76 is good enough for anyone requiring a compact 35mm point-&-shoot for travel and other social events since it can be kept inside the pocket (men) or the handbag (ladies). In this field-test of the Canon Prima Zoom 76, I will present a slightly different review as opposed to the previous Prima and APS models. Rather than testing the camera at almost every subject I came across while going around the neighborhood looking for subjects to shoot, the majority of this field-test was conducted at the first ever GT car racing championship held outside Japan and its related activities. << Back to Main . 1 . 2 . 3 .