Last April I purchased a second-hand istDs via ebay as a replacement for a Canon A610 point and shoot. To cut a long story short I have always had mixed feelings about the istDs image quality and it is definition that I am most concerned about. I inherited a dirty sensor from the previous owner and had to have it professionally cleaned.
I enclose 3 images and would ask people to comment on the questions which follow. Images 1 & 2 were taken with the kit 18-55mm DA lens. I've had to cut the size down to 800x600 so it can be a little hard to tell.
Image 1 – The tell-tale problems are in things like the lettering on the ferry. ‘calmac’ is against a white background and the line between the letter and the background should be sharp. Instead it is slightly blurred/blotchy causing the loss of crispness. This applies to many of the things in the photograph, the people etc. Also the number plate on the car should be clearly visible.
Image 2 – taken in relatively low light. The result is blotchy, particularly the reddish flower in the centre.
Image 3 – similar to image 2 but taken with the Canon point & shoot. I think this image is better.
1) General comments on image quality.
2) Do you think there is a problem or am I expecting too much from the camera. Previous to the Canon I had a Pentax KM which was used for 30 years, say no more on image quality !!! This may have spoilt me.
3) If you think I have a problem with the camera what do you think it is and how might I rectify it.