THE BAD THINGS :
1) The performance of the camera in auto or pre-set modes is thoroughly disappointing. **The camera should be used only in manual mode. As the auto mode is of no use, many features like scene modes, color accent, color swap, stitch assist, continuous shooting of fast moving objects etc. cannot be used.
2) Upon using the optical zoom, though sharp, the images lack brightness & have a dull, washed-out look. The images from a 3MP or even 1.3 MP mobile camera are much better as far as brightness is concerned ! There is chromatic aberration & purple fringing. The very purpose of a high zoom is defeated. 3X optical zoom cameras are available at half the price !
3) With 4 AA Ni-MH batteries, the camera is very heavy.
*THE GOOD THINGS :
1) A fantastic video mode with crisp stereo sound. The zoom is not locked & while recording a video, snaps can also be taken in between !
*2) Good LCD brightness even under bright sunlight.
3) The swivel LCD is very useful especially while recording a self video clip.
*VERDICT :
*If you want a great camcorder with a camera that can take good pictures in manual mode, without using the zoom, only then, go for S5 IS. Anyway, it is better than Sony or Olympus.
I have given a frank opinion, in short. If you want to know more about the drawbacks of the camera, in detail, pl. go to
http://www.tech2.com/india/reviews/prosumer-digital-cameras/canon-powershot-s5-is/22853/0. **Also read the comment of Ramankannan. See how frustrated he is with S5 IS ! God ! Please help all the ignorant people !