It may not have all the cute features that you could want on a camera, but it makes up for it by being durable and rugged. I just recently discovered the "WP" stands for weatherproof, not waterproof. I've been taking mine into the pool and into the ocean for years without a problem, although the camera has never been deeper than a few feet under the water. It is not sufficient if you are a serious scuba person, but for the traveler or outdoor enthusiast, this camera will greatly expand your picture taking abilities. While I have several expensive, feature-laden cameras, I often prefer to use this camera. I find it has three advantages for me. First, its ruggedness allows it to go places my expensive cameras cannot. This includes the beach, on to boats, or into water. You can throw this camera onto the sand or take it into the ocean for fun vacation shots. Second, I'm not worried about losing this camera, as I would be of losing a more expensive camera. Not only is it moderately priced, but also you can slip it into a bathing suit pocket and swim with it. You don't have to leave it on a towel and worry about it as you swim. Thirdly, it's small and lightweight. It's not burdensome to carry-around. For those times that you would like to get a snapshot, but you don't want to lug around a camera bag and a bunch of attachments, this camera is perfect. And while you're carrying it, you don't have to worry about getting caught in the rain.
While it may lack some features, its picture quality is surprisingly good. If you are thinking that a waterproof disposable camera has the same advantages that I listed above (i.e., waterproof with worry-free portability), be advised there is a big difference in the quality of the prints. I've used both and you get much better pictures from this camera. It may not do everything that a fancier camera can do (zoom, macro, etc.), but what it can do it does exceptionally well. This camera has taken some of my favorite vacation snapshots and family pictures, if for no other reason than it was there with me when the picture opportunity presented itself while my "good" camera sat safely (and uselessly) packed away and protected.
This camera certainly lives up to the manufacturers claims of ruggedness! On my recent 2 month trip to Costa Rica it survived numerous soakings and a fall from our rental dirt bike at 30 km/hr with barely a scratch and performs no differently from before. On a day to day basis I've been carrying it around in the bottom of my rucksack for about 8 months now (minus its case, which I long since lost)and besides some of the writing wearing off, its still as good as ever. People are always remarking about the quality of my pictures too - I am never disappointed with a single set of pictures I get back! Bright colours, accurate framing and I particularly like the fact that it shuts off the flash even if you leave the switch on so you don't kill the batteries. One 3V battery lasted over a year! The only trouble with that is its hard to catch that 'critical moment' when using your flash because it takes a second or two to charge the flash after you press the button. Otherwise Its the absolute perfect camera for anyone who has been chastised their entire lives for not 'respecting' their belongings!
I bought this camera about 6 months ago, so the price has dropped considerably. I have yet to test its waterproof capabilities, but so far the pictures have turned out to be average. There are two reasons why I would not recommend buying this camera: 1. The square viewfinder is difficult to see. Many of the pictures I took were off center in the beginning. (If you have a lot of people taking pictures of you with it, I guarantee most of the pictures will have some part of you cut off.) 2. The free "carrying case" is really cheap. I plan to buy some other type of case because I'm afraid that the lens will get damaged through the cheap material. Overall, this camera isn't too bad for a point and click, but I'd look around and see what you can find. Don't buy this camera just because it's weatherproof. The other features won't justify its price.
My Canon was 'purchased' through the Marlboro campaign last year.....and I Love It. I have taken pictures at sunset (my favorite time of day), with incredible results (400-800 film)--- and I have taken pictures in the rain (not a downpour or underwater) and with the same clarity and detail as on a sunny day. I am also very pleased with the shape and weight of the Canon. I would recommend it without hesitation.
I bought this camera for my wife to put in our Baby bag but I loved the performance so much I bought 6 of them 2 for a friend and his wife 1 for a crew member on the Sherman's Zwicker a 145 ft schooner and three as christmas presents. I have had great pictures I now use only Kodak 160& 400 VC & NC Film I can't tell you how pleased I am with this Camera, just buy one and try it for yourself