What type of conversion lense should I use on a Canon Powershot S5-1S?
I purchased this camera for its 12X zoom. I plan on using it at school events to take pictures of my children while they are on stage and I am in the audience. The manual mentions three different conversion lenses that can be added: a wide-angle, a telephoto, and a close-up/macro lense. Would any of these increase the zoom beyond 12X and get me closer to the stage? I am a point-and-click sort of guy and don't know much about photography.
12X zoom is pretty powerful, but if you want to get closer still, yes you can.
Canon makes a conversion adapter that you must have, the LA-DC58E (it comes in a kit, LAH-DC20, that also includes a lens hood.) This will cost you about $25. The adapter allows you to use standard 58mm filters on your camera, so this is a good accessory to have, just for that reason.
Canon also makes two lenses that attach to the conversion adapter, a telephoto and a wide angle.
The telephoto, TC-DC58B, adds 1.5 times the power of your lens, no matter what power your zoom is set at. For instance, if you're zoomed at 5X normal, with this lens you'll be seeing at 7.5X. Where this shines is when you need to go beyond your 12X zoom; this will take you to 18X zoom, instead. Price is about $100.
There's a tradeoff, however. Longer zoom means less light, which means longer exposure times. This lens might be great outside at a soccer match or softball game, but it might not be so beneficial in low light indoors.
Canon also makes a wide-angle lens to fit on the conversion adapter, the WC-DC58A. This will reduce your len's power by about .75X, giving you a wider angle view when needed. In my experience, this is something you'll have a lot less use for, but it could be an invaluable accessory when you visit the Grand Canyon or when you want to photograph the Empire State Building. Cost is about $150.
All of these items are available via Amazon.com (which doesn't show they're compatible with your S5, but Canon's website makes it clear that they are), or from B&H Photo http://www.bhphotovideo.com.
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