Picture This!

Action shots are especially hard to get with most point and shoot camera because they simply can't take photos fast enough to freeze movement. There are however high-end point and shoots which allow the owner to use manual settings which open up a stream of possibilities.

Once again, I picked up the Canon Powershot S5 IS which has a 10x optical zoom, Image Stabilization, and manual modes that allow me to control the camera. I opted to use Program (P on the dial) to see what the camera could do without being given any direction.

This is a tricky show to shoot because the opening is pretty dark and then the actors are in the shadows with bright sunlight behind them while running around the market.

Your location also matters a great deal as to how good your photos will come out. I found a single seat in the second row in the center section. Not too shabby considering I walked up just a few minutes before the adventure began.

f3.5, 1/400, ISO 400

f3.5, 1/320, ISO 500

f8, 1/500, ISO 400

f8, 1/1600, ISO 320

As you can see, the camera made lots of changes according to the lighting situation and where the camera was focused. Certainly the blazing flames in bright sunlight upped the shutter speed and as Indy and his friend ran into the covered part of the stage, they became near-silhouettes.

In the Program mode, you can change your f-stop, shutter speed and ISO. That's what separates it from Auto, as well as more custom controls in the Menu. Give it a try.

Da da da daaaa, da da daa da da.