Not ready to shell out $2,800 for Sony's full-frame RX1 point-and-shoot? Perhaps an APS-C compact is more within your league. Nikon's Coolpix A is the imaging giant's answer to Sony's fixed-lens flavor, sporting an 18.5mm (28mm equivalent) prime lens with a maximum f/2.8 aperture, "quick" autofocus performance, a manual focus ring and, at the center of it all, a 16.2-megapixel DX-format sensor. The idea here is that you'll get DSLR (or mirrorless camera) image quality and depth-of-field in a cam you can tuck away in your pocket. It's a concept we've seen manufacturers deliver on before, and now it's Nikon's turn.

There's a handful of DSLR-like features, such as a full-size hot shoe with i-TTL compatibility, a dedicated mode dial, an adapter ring that accepts a lens hood or 46mm filters, and WU-1a WiFi module compatibility. There's no optical viewfinder in the box, but no matter -- you can add one on for a mere $450. You'll shoot 12- or 14-bit RAW image files at a sensitivity ranging from ISO 100-25,600, and you'll pay dearly for the privilege. $1,100 is the MSRP; black and silver, the color. The Coolpix A is set to hit stores later this month.

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Caution Coolpix P310 owners: Nikon's latest point-and-shoot announcement may cause you to weep. The P330, as this year's flavor is to be called, offers a handful of upgrades over its predecessor, which launched in February of 2012. First, there's a new larger sensor on board, with 1/1.7 of an inch to work with, compared to 1/2.3 of an inch on last year's flavor. It'll also snap lower-resolution images, which may sound like a step backwards, but the 12.2-megapixel chip should offer superior image quality, along with a sensitivity range of ISO 80 through 12,800. Also new this year is RAW shooting -- a feature that could help position this mid-range model as a companion shooter for advanced amateurs and pros alike, for those occasions where a full-size rig wouldn't be practical. Finally, there's a 5x, 24-120mm f/1.8-5.6 optic with lens-based VR, a 3-inch TFT LCD, built-in GPS, 1080/30p and 60i video shooting and WiFi connectivity with the optional ($60) WU-1a module.

In an atypical move, Nikon graciously permitted us to photograph the P330 before its official debut, so we have some hands-on pics and impressions to share. The camera itself looks very similar to the P310 -- there's a nifty mode dial up top, along with a zoom toggle, control dial, power button, stereo mics and a pop-up flash. It's a solid-feeling compact, though Sony's RX100 does offer a more premium feel (and shooting experience to boot, but for nearly twice the price). Overall, the P330 is a solid entrant to Nikon's midrange lineup, but at $380, it's a fairly significant investment, too. Expect the camera to hit stores later this month in black and white -- you, dear reader, can thumb through our hands-on gallery for an up-close look today, though.

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix P330 hands-on

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We don't tend to get excited about any CCD sensor-equipped point-and-shoot nowadays, but Nikon's Coolpix S3500 has at least one feature that we don't often see on a camera in this price range: lens-shift optical image stabilization, or Vibration Reduction (VR). Otherwise, this point-and-shoot's specifications are par for the course, and include a 20.1-megapixel CCD sensor, a 7x, f/3.4-6.4 optical zoom lens and a rather-weak QVGA (320 x 240-pixel) LCD. It can shoot 720p video, too, though we wouldn't expect industry-leading IQ. At $139, the S3500 is priced right for casual photographers, and its orange, pink, purple, red and silver color schemes should appease most digicam-hungry tweens. Hop past the break for some talking points from Nikon HQ.

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Ready to check out some more point-and-shoots? That's great news! We've got a few more to share. The first two, the Coolpix S9500 and S9400, are nearly identical, save for a few key features. Appearance-wise, it's difficult to distinguish between the two, especially when they're powered off. Once you flip them on, however, you'll probably notice the S9500's whopping 22x zoom lens, compared to an 18x optic on the S9400. Both include 18.1-megapixel CMOS sensors and very crisp 3-inch OLED displays, while the higher-end S9500 ($350), which is likely to be the only US-bound model, adds built-in WiFi and GPS. Not to be overlooked, the S5200 includes a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, a 3-inch VGA LCD, 6x optical zoom lens and WiFi for $180.

We caught up with all three compacts at Nikon's CP+ booth this week, and we were quite impressed with the S9500 in particular. Despite the 22x zoom lens, the camera was very thin and light -- it should be able to tuck into a pocket just fine. It included a premium finish, just like its slightly less capable sibling, the S9400, and performed very well during our hands-on. Both of these shooters have sharp OLED displays, which really looked fantastic, along with dedicated mode dials, though we were disappointed to see that Nikon omitted manual shooting options, in favor of some scene presets. The S5200, which was on display in red and blue, had a similar feel and finish, though it was quite a bit more compact, and lacked the OLED screen and mode dial. All of these models are set to ship later this month, but if you're eager to learn more, you can check 'em out in our hands-on after the break.

Gallery: Nikon S9500, S9400, S5200 and L28 hands-on

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Nikon introduced a pair of step-up superzoom cameras here at CP+, with the P520 designed to meet the needs of advanced amateur shooters and the L820 best suited for casual photographers looking to get a bit closer to the action. Both models include BSI CMOS sensors, with the $450 P520 snapping 18.1-megapixel stills and the $280 L820 capturing 16 megapixels. That first model includes a 42x (24-1,000mm) optical zoom lens while the latter sports a 30x (22.5-675mm) optic -- both offer lens-based image stabilization. Both options feature lens-mounted zoom toggles, pop-up flashes and dedicated video capture buttons, but only the P520 offers a dedicated mode dial, and if you're planning to make changes on the fly, that's really a necessity.

We caught up with the duo at Nikon's CP+ booth this week -- we were expecting some inconsistency between the two based on price and specs alone, but after trying out both models, the Coolpix P520 is far and above the better option. The VGA-resolution 3.2-inch display was incredibly sharp and bright, and the vari-angle functionality lets you snap overhead and below-eye-level shots with ease. The camera was very responsive and the housing felt quite durable -- you definitely get quite a bit for your 450 bucks. The L820, on the other hand, felt very much like a low-end alternative, so unless you're on a strict budget or in the market for a sub-$300 model, you'll want to spend for the P520. You should be able to check out both cameras in retail stores beginning later this month, or you can take a look today in our hands-on after the break.

Gallery: Nikon P520 and L820 hands-on

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You might figure that a climate-controlled exhibition center would offer a safe haven for even the most delicate of electronics, but with thousands of consumers getting handsy with these gadgets, many devices take quite a beating during a week-long trade show. No drop to the floor, counter crush or attendee sneeze is too much for these ruggedized Nikons, however. The Coolpix AW110 and S31 were both designed with wild lifestyles in mind, with waterproof and shockproof housings offering protection on land and under the sea. Our test location this week was limited to a display counter positioned front and center at Nikon's CP+ booth in Yokohama, so we can't speak to durability, but both offerings look convincing enough.

With a sticker price of $350, the AW110 is certainly the higher-end of the two. We were particularly taken with the 3-inch OLED display, which looked fantastic -- it's perhaps the sharpest screen we've seen on any ruggedized model. The 5x internal zoom lens wasn't speedier than we expected, but it'll get the job done. The S31, however, looks very much like a child's plaything. And, considering the $120 MSRP (for a ruggedized camera, no less), it seems to be priced as such. We'll let you make that call for yourself, however -- take a closer look at both point-and-shoots after the break.

Gallery: Nikon AW110 and S31 hands-on

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A Coolpix for every budget? Nikon's got you covered with this latest lineup of compact point-and-shoots. The S9500, priced at $350, offers a standard mid-range lineup of pocketable-cam specs. There's an 18.1-megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor, an impressive 22x 25-550mm zoom lens and a 3-inch OLED display. As you might expect from a camera in this price range, Nikon threw in embedded WiFi and GPS, letting you geotag and upload your pics directly from the camera. Next up is the $180 S5200, which manages to squeeze in a 16-megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor and a 6x, 26-156mm optically stabilized zoom lens. You'll use the 3-inch HVGA LCD to navigate the updated (and simplified) user interface. Both of these cameras offer 1080/30p HD video capture modes, too.

Budget-cam hunters might like the $120 Coolpix L28, which is largely identical to its predecessor, the L26, save for a new CCD sensor that snaps 20.1-megapixel stills, rather than the 16.1-megapixel shots you'd be able to grab with 2012's offering. Otherwise, you'll find a 5x, 26-130mm zoom lens with a maximum aperture range of f/3.2-6.5, a 3-inch QVGA LCD, 720p video shooting and an AA battery compartment. All three cameras are set to ship in late February, and will be available in black. The S9500 will also sport a red or silver finish, the S5200 can be had in blue, purple or red, while the L28 will come in red and silver. Try to hold back your excitement.

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Oh, the superzoom camera -- it's not a compact and the lens doesn't twist off, but for one reason or another, this confused category has survived against the odds. So, if superzooms happen to be your shooter of choice, we've got some good news: Nikon's got a new pair to add to the pickins. For those with deeper pockets, the Coolpix P520 might be on order, with an 18.1-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a 3.2-inch vari-angle (tilt-and-swivel) VGA display. There's a 42x f/3.0-5.8, 24-1,000mm lens on board, netting you quite a bit of range. It also offers 1080/60i HD video shooting and WiFi compatibility through the optional ($60) WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter.

Casual photographers might be more taken with the Coolpix L820, which still packs a fair amount of punch, thanks to a 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, a 30x, 22.5-675mm zoom lens with optical VR, and 1080p video shooting. Unlike its more feature-packed sibling, though, this model uses AA batteries -- which you might be into if international travel is on the agenda (those disposable cells are available worldwide, which helps if you aren't keen on plugging in a charger). Both offerings will hit stores in late February, with the P520 available for $450 and the L820 shipping for $280, in your choice of black or red finishes.

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Looking to snap some frames from the mountains to the prairies to the oceans white with foam? Nikon's got you covered, with a pair of ruggedized point-and-shoots. The high-end model here, dubbed the Coolpix AW110, will set you back a whopping 350 bucks, while the S31 will run you about $120. Clearly, you'll be making some compromises if opting for the (significantly) lower-priced model. The AW110 sports waterproofing to depths of 60 feet, compared to 16.5 feet for the less-ambitious S31 -- the former will work just fine at many scuba depths, while the other model should have you covered for casual snorkeling expeditions.

That $350 price tag will also net you built-in WiFi and GPS, a 3-inch OLED display, 1/2.3-inch 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a 5x (28-140mm), f/3.9-4.8 optical zoom lens. The $120 S31, however, includes the same sensor as its predecessor, the S30, with a 1/2.9-inch 10-megapixel CCD. It also includes a 2.7-inch LCD and it can sustain drops from up to 3.6 feet (compared to 6.6 feet for the AW110). It does include a rechargeable battery, however, while the previous-generation model required AAs. Both cameras will hit stores at the end of February, with the AW110 available in black, blue, camouflage and orange, and the S31 shipping in blue, brown, pink, white and pink. Catch a few more details in the press release after the break.

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The budget, compact long-zoom camera field must be a cutthroat one -- Nikon unveiled the Coolpix S6300 early last year, quietly slipped out the S6400 later in 2012, and it's already previewing a S6500 at CES. What's new that justifies such a quick refresh? WiFi, mostly: the S6500 should be one of the less expensive cameras in its class to share its photos directly over a local network. Photographers with self-conscious subjects also get five new Glamor Retouch modes that brighten cheeks, eyes and teeth. Otherwise, those who bought an S6400 will feel like they're in familiar territory between the 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor, 12x (25-300mm equivalent) lens and 1080p video capture. The S6500 arrives towards the end of January for $220, which makes it low-hanging fruit for anyone who wants a dash of everything in their next point-and-shoot upgrade.

Gallery: Nikon S6500 Hands-on at CES 2013

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Dana Murph contributed to this report.

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Source: Nikon

If you're one of the more daring (or foolhardy) photographers out there, you've tried camera tossing: hurling your camera into the air in the hopes that a timed shot will catch either a unique perspective or an artistic spin. Nikon might not want to stop those shooters from throwing caution to the wind, but its recently published Japanese patent would at least keep those throws to a minimum. Cameras based on the patent could use a built-in accelerometer not just for timing the shot, but to brace for a fall by covering the lens and retracting its barrel on the way down. In theory, the photographer gets a perfect aerial portrait without all the guesswork and a minimum of damage. Call us skeptical that we'll ever see the patent reach a shipping product, though -- even if it was limited to rugged cameras, a mode built almost exclusively around voiding the warranty probably wouldn't sit well with Nikon's accountants.

[Image credit: Zoli B, Flickr]

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Via: ReadWrite

Source: So-net (translated)

Another gem at Nikon's unveiling today is this little Coolpix S01, and by "little" we really mean little. At just 96 grams, this is the smallest and lightest Coolpix device ever but it's still surprisingly usable. But like our hands-on with the Android-powered S800c, we couldn't walk away with any sample photos to judge the S01's image quality. Just a quick recap: here you get a 10-megapixel CCD sensor, 3x optical zoom (29mm to 87mm), 720p video capture, several filter effects and a simple touch interface on a 2.5-inch LCD. We also saw five color options in Hong Kong: pink, black, white, red and silver (fingerprint magnet alert!). Our only complaints are that said camera uses a resistive touchscreen, and the lack of white balance options is also quite bizarre -- $179 isn't exactly a cheap enough price to justify this flaw. Still interested? Hit the video after the break for a quick tour.

Update: And the official sample shots are available now.

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix S01 hands-on

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It was only hours ago when Nikon officially unveiled the Coolpix S800c, but we've already laid our hands on this eccentric device. As you've probably already heard, the main selling point here is that said "smart camera" is powered by a slick (and near-vanilla) Android 2.3.3 with Google services, so with the built-in WiFi, you can upload your 16-megapixel images or 1080p videos straight to your various social networks or other cloud services. Or you can, if you're in the mood, just play Angry Birds on the S800c, but that 1,050mAh battery might not be ideal for prolonged entertainment. Sadly, we weren't allowed to share any images taken with the demo units (sorry, usual Nikon protocol), but what we can tell you is that both the camera's speed and quality weren't bad at all, and likewise with the 3.5-inch 854 x 480 OLED multitouch display -- the high pixel density makes the PenTile arrangement more forgivable.

The most interesting thing we discovered was that it seems the camera part of the S800c can run independently from Android while the latter is still booting up. You see, rather than letting the device stay on standby like most other Android devices, Nikon uses a shut-down timer that activates once Android goes on standby. When the camera's completely switched off, hit the power button and you'll go straight into camera mode which lets you shoot immediately, then about half a minute later the interface seamlessly goes back to smart mode, which is when you can hit the back or home button to toggle the Android unlock screen (though we'd rather go straight into the home screen). This cunning trick would probably explain why we couldn't get any internal hardware detail from the few benchmark tools we installed, but we did squeeze out a score of 614 in Vellamo -- detailed breakdown in the gallery below. Anyhow, you can see the camera in action in the video after the break.

The Nikon Coolpix S800c will be available next month for $350 in the US and £379 in the UK. As always, stay tuned for our review.

Update: Nikon's released some sample shots. Take a look.

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix S800c hands-on: a closer look at the Android camera

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It's here: Nikon's first Android-powered camera, and it's one that you'd actually consider buying. The $349.95 Coolpix S800c is nearly as slim as a smartphone from the middle of last decade, boasting inbuilt GPS (you know, for excessive geotagging), a 10x optical zoom lens, 16 megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, 3.5-inch OLED WVGA touchscreen, a 1080p movie capture mode and Android 2.3. That's right -- there's a bona fide copy of Android running the show on a point-and-shoot camera, something that it seems Nikon beat Samsung to the punch with. Put simply, it possesses the ability to generate its own network and tether with your phone, and users can also download photo sharing applications directly onto the cam's 4GB of internal storage. Needless to say, we're anxiously awaiting our chance to see how Android handles on a camera (and how it impacts battery life), and you can find out yourself when it hits shelves in black / white motifs next month.

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix S800c photo gallery

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A flagship it isn't, but Nikon's newest Coolpix will certainly hit the sweet spot in terms of pricing for many. The Coolpix L610 is an entry-level compact that breaks away from proprietary cells in order to rely on a pair of AAs. World travelers may argue that it's easier to find a pack of those at any corner shop than a power outlet, and while it may only suit a select few, we're glad that the AA notion hasn't been tossed aside completely. Specs-wise, you're looking at a 16 megapixel BSI (backside illuminated) CMOS sensor, a 1080p movie mode, 3-inch rear LCD, optical VR image stabilization, HDMI socket and a 14x wide-angle zoom lens. It's designed to sit between the P510 and P7100 in terms of size, with a newfangled design that looks pretty darn attractive at the $249 asking price. For those interested, it'll be hitting shelves in September donning a red, black or silver motif.

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix L610 (press photos)

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Gallery: Nikon Coolpix L810, L26 and S30

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Gallery: Nikon Coolpix S9300, S6300, S4300 and S3300

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Gallery: Nikon Coolpix P7100, AW100, S100 / 6200 / 8200 / 1200pj cameras

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Gallery: Nikon Coolpix P500 hands-on

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix sping 2011 range press images

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix spring 2011 range hands-on

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Gallery: Nikon Coolpix S9100 press images

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix S9100 hands-on

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