Nikon has added six new models to its Coolpix line of compact digicams.

-
leadpic_P6000_front

August 6, 2008: Nikon has added six new models to its Coolpix line of compact digicams.
The ‘flagship’ Coolpix P6000 (RRP $749) model features a 7.6 x 5.7 mm RGB CCD image sensor with 13.5 effective megapixels and a 4x Zoom-Nikkor lens. The lens covers focal lengths from 28mm to 112mm (35mm format equivalent) and includes ED elements and an optical lens shift VR system. A built-in GPS unit records location data to allow geo-tagging of shots. Face Priority AF can recognise up to 12 human faces and adjust focus, exposure and flash accordingly.

-
Coolpix-P6000-front

Coolpix P6000 front view.
The Mode Dial provides quick access to advanced Programmed Auto [P], Shutter-priority Auto [S], Aperture-priority Auto [A], and Manual [M] exposure modes, the choice of two user-defined settings, (U1/U2), as well as automated scene modes. A Command dial and customisable Function button allow quick switching of settings. There’s also a shooting menu for quick access to regularly used selections and an efficient new tabbed menu interface.

-
Coolpix-P6000-back

Coolpix P6000 rear view.
The P6000 is the first Coolpix for several generations to offer raw file support, with a new NRW (RAW) format that can be processed in-camera or opened and edited in ViewNX (Window version only). Extended light sensitivity is also supported with a normal range up to ISO 1600 plus ISO 3200 and 6400 for image sizes of 3M (2048 x 1536) or smaller. The body of the P6000 has a front panel made of solid magnesium alloy and a comfortable rubber-coated grip. It can also accept external flash and converter lens components.
The Coolpix S710 (RRP $549) claims to provide high performance and advanced features in “the world’s smallest package”. With a “1/1.72-inch type” CCD sensor boasting 14.5-megapixel effective resolution it comes with a new 3.6x Zoom-Nikkor lens (28-101mm in 35mm format) and optical lens shift VR (Vibration Reduction). The S710’s stainless steel body is available in silver or black and carries a 3.0-inch LCD monitor.

-
Coolpix_S710

Coolpix S710.
Users can select P, A, S and M exposure modes via the Rotary Multi Selector or use the new Scene Auto Selector. Motion Detection automatically selects a higher ISO sensitivity setting when camera shake or subject movement are detected. Light sensitivity can be manually set as high as ISO 12,800, although the ISO 6400 and 12,800 settings are available only for image sizes of 3M (2048 x 1536) or smaller. The S710 also includes Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting.

-
Coolpix_S610c

Coolpix S610c.
The Coolpix S610c (RRP $529) brings Wi-Fi support and the world’s first implementation of the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) standard to the Coolpix line. The 10-megapixel S610c also has a 4x Zoom-Nikkor lens (28-112mm in 35mm format) and optical lens shift stabilisation and comes with 45MB of built-in memory plus an SD/SDHC card slot. Features include 16 handy scene modes, macro focusing to 3 cm plus active zoom and motion detection functions. The Coolpix S610 (RRP $479) has a similar feature suite but lacks WiFi support.

-
Coolpix_S560

Coolpix S560.
Combining a 5x Zoom-Nikkor lens with 10-megapixel resolution, the Coolpix S560 (RRP $449) boasts the smallest body in its class and will be available in Warm Silver or black. It comes with Nikon’s new Scene Auto Selector, VR image stabilisation and Auto ISO control across a range of ISO 64-800. ISO 3200 is available for image sizes of 3M (2048 x 1536) or smaller. A high quality 2.7-inch LCD monitor provides improved shooting displays and revised icons. Approximately 44MB of internal memory is provided, along with an SD/SDHC expansion slot.

-
Coolpix_S60

Coolpix S60.

At entry level, the Coolpix S60 (RRP $549) combines 10-megapixel resolution with a new 3.5-inch LCD monitor that offers a 16:9 widescreen display with touch-screen control. Designed for snapshooters, the S60 sports an optimised interface with a choice of three different HOME screens with large icons that make fingertip selection of operating modes and controls easy and accurate. Even the 5x zoom can be controlled via icons on the touch screen.
A stylus is supplied for accessing the Draw Function, which allows handwritten memos on the touch screen to be stored as JPEG files and the Paint Function, which enables memos and frames to be added to images. The new HD Pictmotion function combines with HDMI connectivity to allow high-quality playback and slide shows on an HDTV. The S60 will be available in a choice of Purplish Black, Pearl White, Bordeaux Red, or Pale Pink.

The first cameras are due to go on sale at the end of this month with general availability by mid-September. For more information on the new models, visit www.nikon.com.au.