Nikon Unveils Seven New Coolpix Digicams

February 21, 2007: Seven new Coolpix models will be released from next month to celebrate the 10^th anniversary of Nikon’s Coolpix brand.
Nikon has also refreshed its line-up by dividing Coolpix cameras into three sectors: P (Performance) series models for enthusiasts, S (Style) series models for elegance and L (Life) series models for everyday photography. Topping the line-up is the Coolpix P5000 (RRP $649), which boasts a 10-megapixel imager and 3.5x optical zoom lens (36-126mm equivalent). Features include full-time VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilisation, an extended ISO range (to ISO 3200) and a new image-processing engine with enhanced noise reduction and an improved signal-to-noise(S/N) ratio.

A mode dial provides quick access to P, A, S and M shooting modes plus a selection of 16 different scene-optimised modes, seven movie modes, Anti-Shake mode and High-Sensitivity mode. The camera body has a magnesium-alloy front panel with a textured finish, a rubberised grip and an optical viewfinder. A hot-shoe is provided for accessory flash units and the camera can accept a range of converter lenses.

The Coolpix S500 (RRP $549) is a slimline model with a 7.1-megapixel imager and 3x optical zoom Nikkor lens (35-105mm equivalent). It has a stainless steel body with a bright, 2.5-inch high resolution LCD and an image-stabilising optical lens shift VR unit. A new ‘response priority’ setting powers-up the camera within 0.8 seconds and extended light sensitivity up to ISO 2000 prevents blurred shots when shooting in lower light, or when capturing fast-moving subjects.

Featuring a super-thin aluminum body measuring just 18.5mm, the Coolpix S200 (RRP $429) combines a 7.1-megapixel imager with a 3x optical zoom Nikkor lens (38-114mm equivalent). Its 2.5-inch LCD has an anti-reflection coating and a new menu interface includes illustrated help dialogues to help users navigate their way through the camera functions, select modes and enhance or correct images. An Anti-Shake shooting mode employs electronic VR stabilisation and sets the optimal ISO for the shot. Nikon’s BSS (Best Shot Selector) selects the sharpest image from up to 10 sequential shots.

The Coolpix S50 and S50c models are almost identical, with the S50c (RRP $649) adding built-in WiFi capability to the functions of the S50 (RRP $579) model. Features include a 7.2-megapixel CCD imager, 3.0-inch wide-angle LCD and built-in “right-angle” optical VR lens (38-114mm equivalent) with lens-shift image stabilisation. A dedicated Anti-Shake button engages the VR function, the High-Sensitivity mode (up to ISO 1600) and BSS all at once to produce shots that are steady and sharp. Both cameras also have a one-touch Portrait button that activates Face-Priority AF, in-camera red-eye fix and D-Lighting.

The Coolpix L12, L11 and L10 models have similar features and all sport 3x optical zoom lenses. The L12 (RRP $349) combines a 7.1-megapixel imager with a 35-105mm (equivalent) lens plus optical lens-shift VR. This model has the same Anti-shake and one-touch Portrait buttons as the Coolpix S50 and a top sensitivity of ISO 1600. It also includes a 2.5-inch monitor and is powered by AA batteries. The Coolpix L11 (RRP $279) and Coolpix L10 (RRP $199) models differ only in sensor resolution and the size of the LCD monitor. The 6-megapixel L11 has a 2.4-inch LCD, while the 5-megapixel L10 has a 2.0-inch display. Both are powered by AA batteries. All three models are equipped with Nikon’s Face-Priority AF, in-camera red-eye fix and D-Lighting functions.

Bundled with all of the new Coolpix cameras is Nikon’s PictureProject software, which combines file transfer, viewing, editing and sharing facilities. More information on the new Coolpix models and all other Nikon product is available at www.nikon.com.au and/or the new Coolpix website, www.nikon-coolpix.com.