Photomission Photography Podcast ..Road Testing the Canon Powershot V1 in Dubai EP 353 https://www.canon.com.au/cameras/powershot-v1
In this episode, Road Testing the Canon Powershot V1 in Dubai. Join the conversation!
About the Host:
Stephen Finkel discovered his passion for photography at the age of seven and has never looked back. He manages several photography-related businesses, including Photomission, and is currently a Canon Collective Community Manager.
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🎨 Cover Art by Stephen Finkel
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Canon PowerShot V1 — The Little Camera That Made Me Rethink Everything
I recently travelled to Dubai with my main workhorse, the Canon EOS R5 Mark II, paired with the new Canon PowerShot V1 as a compact backup. What I didn’t expect was just how often the V1 would become the camera I relied on.
Several of Dubai’s major attractions don’t allow “professional” interchangeable-lens cameras past the door — but the pocket-sized V1 sailed straight through security every time. No questions. No stress. Just creative freedom in the palm of my hand.
And that’s where this little pocket rocket surprised me: it didn’t feel like a compromise. Not once.
A Pocket Camera That Frees You Up
The PowerShot V1 is small enough to slip into my jeans pocket or disappear in my wife’s handbag, yet it still gives me full manual control over stills and video. It let me stay present, shoot quicker, and move through crowds without drawing attention. I could explore, create, and capture moments without the logistics of carrying a larger system.
It reminded me that you don’t always need 45 megapixels, dual card slots and every advanced feature under the sun. Sometimes creativity comes easier when you’re carrying less.
Surprisingly Capable Where It Counts
Despite its size, the V1 delivered impressive performance:
Tilt-out vari-angle screen for high/low angle shooting
1-inch sensor for excellent image quality and low-light capability
Fast autofocus with subject tracking
Full manual exposure control
Excellent video features, including 4K and a seriously good timelapse mode
Great built-in microphone with wind filtering
USB-C charging — no bulky chargers needed
Lightweight, pocketable design for true everyday carry
It turned out to be a far better option than relying on a smartphone — not just in image quality, but in the way it made me think about photography again.
A Camera That Can Go Anywhere
The biggest win? It’s a camera that genuinely accesses all areas. No raised eyebrows from security. No “professional camera not allowed” signs stopping your creativity. Just shoot, move, explore.
After using the PowerShot V1, I can honestly say it challenged some of my photography beliefs. It reminded me that sometimes the best camera is the one that stays with you, goes everywhere with you, and lets you keep creating without barriers.
Final Thoughts
The Canon PowerShot V1 isn’t just a compact camera — it’s a mind-opener. It redefines what a small camera can be and proves that compact doesn’t mean compromised. As a travel companion to the EOS R5 Mark II, it was brilliant, and as a standalone creative tool, it was a joy.
If you’ve overlooked compact cameras in recent years, the V1 might just change your mind.
Redefine your thoughts on compact cameras — this one deserves a spot in every photographer’s kit.
