Do Compacts Have Shutters?

[John]

This question is related to obtaining sharp digiscoped pictures. I am wondering whether or not my Ixus 400 compact has a shutter, or does it have an electronic switch that sensitises the sensor for the chosen period of time. I certainly can't feel any vibration when I fire the 'shutter!' I am trying to seek out and eliminate as many sourses of vibration as possible.

[yelvertoft]

John,

As far as I'm aware, the answer to your question is "no". The sensor on a compact is exposed to the light all the time. This is why compacts have live preview on the screen and (with one or two exceptions) dSLRs don't.

Duncan

[John]

Thank you very much Duncan.

John

Originally Posted by yelvertoft

John,

As far as I'm aware, the answer to your question is "no". The sensor on a compact is exposed to the light all the time. This is why compacts have live preview on the screen and (with one or two exceptions) dSLRs don't.

Duncan

[robski]

If the compact camera has a movie mode the answer is also a definite no.

[John]

Thank you Rob. Yes, it does have a movie mode, so now I know for sure.

John.

Originally Posted by robski

If the compact camera has a movie mode the answer is also a deffinite no.

[Christine]

John your digiscoped images are good.I very much doubt you can improve them.The Siskin was a great shot.I have been digiscoping today,but it was windy,then I tried the 400 lens with a 2x and the image was better than the digiscoped one.It may have been even better if I could have found the remote release cable!!.As long as you have good light,and pref no wind,and do not overdo the zoom,you should be okay.