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Nikon Coolpix P5100 12.1MP Digital Camera review The Nikon Coolpix P5100 is the new flagship model in the Nikon Coolpix lineup, designed to satisfy photography enthusiasts. Built on a custom application of Nikon's innovative EXPEED digital image processing concept and incorporating the precision optics of a Nikkor lens, the Cool pix P 5100 is built to realize optimum performance and maximum image quality. Class-leading imaging ability begins with a full 12.1 effective megapixels of sharp resolution and a new digital image processing engine that reproduce the finest details and subtlest tones with precision and clarity, even when taking advantage of sensitivity settings as high as ISO 3200. (ISO 3200 is available only for image sizes of 5 megapixels [2592 x 1944] or smaller.) It also includes the compositional freedom of the 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor lens and compatibility with various converter lenses that further extend wide-angle and telephoto reach. In addition to a variety of automated and scene modes, four advanced exposure modes offer both enthusiasts and more advanced photographers greater personal control over the camera. The Mode dial provides easy access to these modes, reflecting the Cool pix P 5100's logical design that works to simplify and streamline operation for the photographer. Optical lens shift VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization counteracts the effects of camera shake in lower light or when shooting unsteady subjects to help achieve sharper results. Active full time, it also stabilizes images displayed on the 2.5-inch high-resolution LCD monitor with wide 170-degree viewing angle for easier framing and more reassured shooting. The quality-crafted body is made of solid magnesium alloy (Mg), featuring a quality finish, a comfortable grip covered in grid-pattern rubber, as well as an optical viewfinder to aid composition, particularly in brightly lit conditions. The built-in accessory shoe adds support for Nikon Speedlights and advanced i-TTL flash control. Nikon Coolpix P5100 digital camera Features Superb image quality Excellent imaging quality is a priority for the CoolpixP5100, from the 12.1 effective megapixels of imaging power produced by its 1/1.72-inch RGB CCD and new digital image processing engine, to its powerful 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor lens and optical lens shift VR. Shooting modes that give the user greater control Four exposure modes accessed via the Mode dial provide greater control over camera operation. Programmed Auto [P] mode automatically selects the optimal shutter and aperture settings. Shutter-priority Auto [S] lets the user select shutter speed, while the camera sets the optimal aperture. Aperture-priority Auto [A] offers 10-step manual control over the aperture setting to let the user decide depth of field, while the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed. Manual [M] exposure mode provides full control over both the aperture and shutter speed settings. Proven lens shift VR image stabilization Optical lens shift VR (Vibration Reduction) is field-proven technology originally developed for interchangeable lenses used in Nikon SLR camera systems. The VR technology provides the ability to shoot at shutter speeds as much as three stops slower without blurring the image, as well as producing a smoother viewfinder image which aids composition. Nikon's exclusive VR system also yields sharper results when shooting in low light when using the 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor lens, or when reaching farther with an optional telephoto converter lens. ISO 3200 capability Extended light sensitivity range up to ISO 3200 adds the power to shoot more effectively in lower lighting conditions or to capture fast moving subjects with outstanding clarity. And the new image processing engine produces clear results, even when shooting with high ISO settings. The convenience of system expandability Optional system components further expand the photographic possibilities of the CoolpixP5100. Nikon's 0.67x wide-angle converter (WC-E67) and 3.0x tele-converter (TC-E3ED) lenses are available to extend the range of the attached 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor lens, while a built-in accessory shoe supports the use of Nikon's advanced i-TTL flash control for external flashes, including the Speedlight SB-400, SB-600, and SB-800. These accessories are not included and must be purchased separately. Other features Three unique Nikon image innovations: Face-priority AF with improved speed and efficiency, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix, D-Lighting Optimize image for shooting monochrome photographs using a choice of 4 different filters for creative effects, (yellow, orange, red, and green) Continuous flash shooting helps capture the action by allowing a burst of consecutive flash shots without having to wait for the flash to recharge 1:1 size format allows photos to be shot using 1:1 (square) perspective Distortion control corrects for barrel distortion in images shot and even displays the corrected image on the LCD in real time Macro shooting from as close as 4 centimeters (1.6 inches) 4x digital zoom extends compositional freedom Improved menu interface, available in a choice of 23 languages Time zone function for easy setting of multiple locations SDHC card compatibility Approximately 52MB of internal memory PictBridge support What's in the box Nikon Coolpix P5100 digital camera, UC-E6 USB cable, EG-CP14 audio-video cable, EN-EL5 rechargeable li-ion battery, MH-61 battery charger, AN-CP16 strap, Software Suite CD-ROM --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nikon Coolpix P5100 digital camera customer reviews I spilled beer on it and it still works OK, so it was my "friend" who spilled my beer on the camera; I probably shouldn't have left it on the table, but it's so light and fun to use that I like to keep it handy. (The beer only splashed onto the front lens area, so not much damage. I was on it right away with napkins then cleaned it later with rubbing alcohol. The auto lens cover still sticks a little, but no long term effects as of yet.) Two months ago, I was shopping for a camera for my first ever trip to Yellowstone Nat'l Park. I was torn between the Nikon P5100 and the Canon G9. I agonized over all the reviews and sample pictures. The Canon was great, but cost $200 more and weighed a lot more. The Nikon was lightweight, more pocket friendly and still 12 megapixels. Believe it or not, this is my first digital camera. I have a couple film cameras, a Nikon 35Ti point and shoot and a Canon T90 SLR. I used to be a professional, toting bags of heavy equipment with me everywhere, and I wanted to get as far away from that as possible, even if it meant sacrificing "picture quality." And by that, I mean the difference between something you'd see in a scrapbook versus in a published book. This little camera does a great job; overall I was very happy with it. Most of my disappointments came from the rustiness of my own photography skills. However I did hit a enough snags to reduce the rating to 4 stars. The camera sometimes had a hard time metering, especially at the Paint Pots or waterfalls. I usually used either Aperture or Shutter priority, depending on whether I wanted depth of field or stop-action -- I love having that ability. But when the meter was fooled, I would have to switch to Manual. I never tried the preprogrammed settings (Portrait, Landscape, etc). The other problem was focusing -- the camera does great with people, but terrible on landscapes with no contrast (again, the paint pots or thermal features with lots of steam). I found that setting the focus from AF to landscape helped a lot, but I was frustrated enough to take away a star. So I'm sure I would have gotten much better pictures had I spent $1500 on a new SLR and lenses and a tripod and hauled 40 pounds of equipment with me instead of carrying a $300 camera (with the extra telephoto extender too) that fits in my pocket. But would I have had as much fun? I doubt it. P.S. I spilled coffee on it too. That I can't blame on anyone but me. Coolpix P5100: Blurry Pictures: A Real Disappointment ! I upgraded my Coolpix P5000 to Coolpix P5100 for enhanced image quality and overall performance. I was so disappointed that my Coolpix P5100 yielded blurry and hazy pictures taken in broad daylight, even with its "fine" mode on. Its indoor performance was even more deplorable (even under well-lit conditions for shooting still-life objects). The major factor contributing to Coolpix P5100's poor picture quality is probably its slow-reactive auto focus, which takes a few seconds (and several seconds when shooting indoor or in a shaded area outdoor) to lock in a target. If you are looking for a digital point-and-shoot with high MP, you should definitely avoid Coolpix P5100. I do digitized photo repair as a hobby, and therefore am highly attentive (and sensitive) to image details. Believe me, you will be disappointed with Coolpix P5100, if you have a refined taste for image quality. It looks cool, but its pictures are clearly not. Nice little package...but images are noisy above ISO 100 I have the G7 (one model before the G9) and also this P5100. First the good of the P5100. 1) Size matters...it fits easily in a pocket or in my wife's purse! 2) Weight...much lighter...she doesn't realize it when i put it in her purse! 3) Can use with my nikon SB-800 flash for nice bounced flash photography, allowing creative portraits or images. 4) Decent images if in nicely lit areas The Bad: 1) Very very ...very slowwwwww focusing...and i mean SLOW!! 2) images above ISO 400 are so noisy, that its is not usable for any decent printing 3) video images are of so-so quality (compared to G7) If size and weight don't matter, i seriously recommend the Canon G7 or G9. Image quality and response time are also better on the canon. Though i love the nikon small form factor.
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