A simple device that adds a lot of capability
Written: Oct 01 '07
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Allows the use of standard 52mm (or 58mm) lens accessories, protects lens, provides handhold. Inexpensive.
Cons: Makes the camera slightly larger for storage. Black paint does not match gunmetal grey camera.
The Bottom Line: Solves some frustrating shortcomings of an otherwise good camera. Adds the ability to use commonly sized accessories, and protects the permanently mounted lens.
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| yospiff's Full Review: Lensmate Powershot S5/S3/S2 IS 52mm lens adapter |
My biggest frustration with my new Powershot S5 IS is the lens cap that falls off too easily, risking it getting accidentally scratched. http://www.epinions.com/content_403291082372
One of the first things I looked for was an aftermarket cap to fit it, but I was told (by the chain I bought it from) that the S series cameras do not use a standard size and I was out of luck. I mentioned it in an online user group for the S5 and Lensmate was suggested. It was a well spent $25.
Canon builds the S series cameras with an accessory mount ring, meant to take a selection of Canon designed items for this camera. The Lensmate adapter is a simple machined aluminum barrel that fits the canon accessory ring. With the adapter installed, one can use standard 52mm accessories with the camera. They also make a 58mm model that flares out slightly, but Lensmate's FAQ suggests getting the 52mm unless you already have 58mm lens accessories you wish to use.
The adapter is nicely finished and fits easily and securely onto the camera. There is a very slight mismatch, as the Lensmate is painted matte black, while my S5 is a dark gunmetal grey. It's not glaringly obvious and getting an exact match would probably mean a higher price. The lensmate is also available in silver for those who have the silver painted S2 IS.
I bought a lens cap and a glare hood from them as well. Both items screwed on and off the adapter easily.
Some additional benefits are that I now have a better handhold to stabilize the camera, and can also add telephoto and wideangle converters if I wish. (A 12x zoom seems like plenty to me, but you never know...) Lensmate offers some modest discounts for purchase of multiple adapter barrels. You could treat it almost like an SLR, with several converters mounted in spare barrels for quick switches.
When I placed my order, I made mention of how I found them by word-of-mouth (or word-of-message-forum, as it were.) When I got my confirmation e-mail, there was a comment line expressing thanks for the word of mouth advertising. Nice to know that not everything is 100% automated. I received my order two days later by priority mail.
I also need to make mention that just looking at their site, I could tell this small company is run by enthusiasts. They post technical details and sample images from the various lenses and converters they sell, pointing out both the benefits and shortcomings of them all.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
yospiff
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Reviews written: 35
Trusted by: 0 members
About Me:
USAF 13 years. Office equipment technician since '92. Tech geek forever.
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