New Nikon Coolpix Cameras Coming

October 20, 2006: Nikon Australia will release six new Coolpix digital cameras in Australia next month, with models to suit a wide range of users.
Top of the line is the Coolpix S10 (RRP $649), which has a 6-megapixel imager and 10x optical zoom lens and features a swivelling body design that makes it easy to take pictures from different angles. The lens covers a focal length range equivalent to 38-380mm in 35mm format and the camera body includes a CCD-shift Vibration Reduction (VR) system to counteract camera shake. A large, bright 2.5-inch LCD monitor provides a wide 170-degree viewing angle and a top sensitivity of ISO 800 allows pictures to be taken in dim lighting. The Coolpix S10 also offers continuous shooting at up to 1.6 frames per second (fps).
The Coolpix S9 (RRP $449) features a slimline body and 5.76 x 4.29 mm CCD with 6.1-megapixel (effective) resolution. The 3 x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens covers a 38-114mm range (35mm equivalent) and features a new “right-angled” design in which all zoom movement is within the camera body. Shots are composed on the 2.5-inch LCD monitor and a date counter and time zone function are provided, along with a new Stop-motion movie mode for creating animated film clips. Continuous shooting is supported at up to 1.7 fps.

The Coolpix S8 (RRP $599) and Coolpix S7 (RRP $649) have similar features, starting with a 7.1-megapixel imager and 3x optical zoom lens (35-105mm in 35mm format). The S8 sports a 2.5-inch LCD monitor with a wide 170-degree viewing angle, while the S7 has a 3.0-inch screen. Both models include Electronic VR to compensate for camera shake and offer a top sensitivity of ISO 1600. A rotary multi-selector simplifies operation and playback and the S8 adds two special scene modes for vibration reduction. A new Pictmotion function blends images, music and visual styles to provide in-camera entertainment. The S8 is supplied with the Cool-Station MV-14, which offers in-camera battery charging, USB connectivity and output to TV.

The 6.0-megapixel Coolpix L6 (RRP $329) claims outstanding power management with lithium batteries supporting up to 1,000 shots. The 3x optical zoom lens covers angles of view equivalent to 38-116mm in 35mm format and a large 2.5-LCD with 115,000 pixels is used for shot composition. Sensitivity settings up to ISO 800 are provided and continuous shooting captures shots at 1.7 fps.

The Coolpix L5 (RRP $499) boasts a 7.2-megapixel imager and 5x optical zoom lens (38 to 190mm equivalent). Lens-shift VR technology is provided and a new VR button lets users choose from Normal, Active and Off modes. A one-touch portrait button provides direct access to special shooting functions, while a Help button accesses easy-to-understand explanations for main menu functions. On-screen menus and icons offer improved visibility.
All S-series models include a one-touch portrait button for easy portraiture. The new range also includes in-camera Red-Eye Fix, D-Lighting illumination correction and Face-priority AF plus 15 scene modes, four of them with Scene Assist in all models. They also offer movie capture with sound at up to 30 fps. Nikon PictureProject software is included. Full details of the new cameras can be found at www.nikon.com.au.