PowerShot SD300 New to this stuff but flash isnt going off at all. Taking pics outside works perfect or if there is enough light.....Just called Canon and they were not that helpful at all. Told me i can send in at my expense but probably would cost about $90 or more to fix and/or I can upgrade my camera (for models that are older than I can get for under $200....they want to offer them at $150). Anybody have an issue with the flash not going off? the only thing the canon buy told me is there might be a short in the camera. So when I asked if that was covered as not a user error...he is like no, 'force of nature issue'. Very disappointed with their service - may call back.

Call canon and tell them you have a defective unit.

This is not an answer. The S3 normally does not produce dark pictures, and I have seen this issue before. It has to do with a setting somewhere on that camera that needs to be adjusted. I wish I knew what that setting was/is as my wife's camera has recently started doing this ...

change the flash bulb

Hi

Your mode position switch could just be damaged or the switch on the outside of the camera might not be properly lined up with the switch on the inside. You have to open up the camera body to see what I mean, its not hard, just make sure you take out the battery first.

If you need the mode switch, its pretty easy to take off, I just pulled one off an SD300 to see whats involved and its pretty simple.

As for international shipping... Im starting to do it more, but only via US Priority Mail International which is $12 for a flat rate envelope. I just don't like stuff disappearing during transport and that's why I don't like shipping to the other side of the globe.

If you need the parts please let me know, we will get the shipping figured out.

Good luck from: Darntoothysam com

Thomas

Sounds like it needs service. Call Canon tech support.

Try a mode other than auto, and turn off the flash. Then try taking a picture. Did it work? If so, then your flash is either burned out, or the flash safety circuit thinks that the camera is open. If the flash is burned out, then professional repair is required, as a flash change-out is not trivial (Call 1-800-OK-CANON).

However, as mentioned it may be only a break in the safety circuit. Canon usually some of the screws in the camera case to serve as a means of detecting if the case is open (and thus disables the flash to prevent shock). Examine all the screws around the perimeter of your case. Are they all there and tight? If not, try moving and replacing any missing screws with one of the others that are still there.

Most likely your flash bulb burned out or was damaged. If you feel comfortable opening your camera you can buy a flash module on the internet or ebay for around $20-$25 and install it yourself. If you do so, be VERY careful NOT TO TOUCH the capacitor as those things can store a massive amount of voltage even when the battery is removed and the camera has been off for some time.

If you don't feel comfortable opening your camera and trying to replace it yourself, my suggestion would be to get a new camera. Repairs by Canon usually run more than $100 and the SD300 is a bit old to be laying out that kind of dough, in my opinion.

If it is a malfunctioning unit, you may qualify for an upgrade through Canon rather than going out and buying a new one, paying full price, you can get a deep discount through their loyalty program. Give them a call to set your camera up for service and the service technician once they have your camera will let you know if you qualify for the program and which camera you will qualify for and how much it will cost.

Hope this helps!

If your flash is failing, it will require service by Canon.

nothing on a sd300 but there is on a Ixus 40, see below for IXUS drivers and manuals http://software.canon-europe.com/products/0010105.asp