This is one of the smallest ultra-compact digital cameras available.  Image softness is above average even for its size, but noise is similar to other ultra-compact cameras. Otherwise, colors are fairly accurate and it captures a good amount of details.

The SD450 is definitely a great ultra-compact camera and would be very useful as a first or second camera. For a first camera, it may be worth while to get the SD550 or SD500 instead which produces better pictures but otherwise performs very similarly.

The SD450 is also one of the rare ultra-compact cameras that can be used for low light photography, thanks to its slow shutter mode which allows the user to select a shutter speed between 1 and 15 seconds. This is important as in-camera metering does not usually work well at low light levels. Additionally, the LCD brightens in low-light which makes it possible to see what you are shooting at even when its dark.