The PowerShot SX530 HS features a 24–1200 mm (35 mm film equivalent) 50x optical zoom lens, enabling users to enjoy a wide range of angles of view, from wide angle to telephoto. The camera's high-magnification zoom capabilities are supported by an optimized lens structure incorporating three UD lens elements and one aspherical lens. Additionally, ZoomPlus technology digitally extends the zoom range beyond the 50x optical magnification to approximately 100x while maintaining a high level of image resolution.

The SX530 HS is equipped with a grip that facilitates firm holding, enabling users to realize steady handling even when shooting at the telephoto end, where camera shake becomes more prominent. Furthermore, to ensure the sharpest images and movies possible, the camera offers Intelligent IS, a lens-shift-type optical image stabilization system that analyzes camera movement and applies the optimal shake correction method based on the shooting situation. Offering such modes as Macro, Panning, Dynamic and Tripod, Intelligent IS lets the camera select the most effective IS settings so that users can concentrate on capturing the ideal image or movie.