Digital Camera News and Reviews

Nikon Coolpix L20

Camera Labs has reviewed the Nikon Coolpix L20 digital compact camera. This budget point-and-shoot features 10 megapixels and 3.6 optical zoom in addition to a large 3″ LCD screen.

Some key features for the Nikon Coolpix L20:
-10 megapixel sensor
-3.6x optical zoom lens (38 – 136mm)
-3″ LCD screen
-20MB of built-in memory

Nikon Coolpix L20 gets a “Recommended” 80% score from Camera Labs. On the positive side the camera is cheap and easy to use, but on the negative side the L20 has no image stabilization and is relatively slow. Overall this Coolpix camera seems like a nice choice for point-and-shoot photographers, but not recommended for more experienced photographers.
Read the full review of the Nikon Coolpix L20 digital camera here.

Nikon Coolpix S570

CNET UK has reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S570 compact digital camera. This Nikon camera feature 12 megapixels and 5x optical zoom along with 47MB of internal memory.

Some key features for the Nikon Coolpix S570:
-12 megapixel image sensor
-5x optical zoom lens (28-140mm)
-digital image stabilization
-2.7″ LCD screen
-47MB built-in memory

CNET UK gives the Nikon Coolpix S570 a 7.2 out of 10 score. The camera seems to be performing average in its class and it is able to produce pictures of decent quality. The S570 produces very good pictures at low ISO values, but at the highest ISO values the Coolpix is almost useless. Overall the Nikon Coolpix S570 seems like a nice camera that stands out positve compared to other cameras in the same class.
Read the full review of the Nikon Coolpix S570 camera here.

Nikon CoolPix S70

Digital Camera Review has tested the Nikon CoolPix S70 compact digital camera. This Nikon camera feature a large 3.5″ OLED touchscreen and a wide angle 5x zoom lens.

Some key features for the Nikon CoolPix S70:
-3.5″ OLED touch screen
-12.1 megapixel sensor
-5x optical zoom lens (28-140mm)
-optical and digital image stabilization
-HD 720p movie mode with 30 fps
-20MB built-in memory

Digital Camera Review ends up the Nikon CoolPix S70 a pretty good review, but the camera has some shortcomings. On the positive side the reviewer likes the video mode, sleek design, the large touchscreen and the touch shutter. On the other hand the reviewer does not like the hefty price tag, that the touchscreen can be difficult to use (and you got no manual alternatives), inconsistent image quality and small resolution on the touchscreen. It seems like Nikon has a good concept with the S70 camera and lets hope they pull it off better with the next model.
Read the full review of the Nikon CoolPix S70 camera here.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II

Nikon has announced a new high end prime lens with a pretty extreme focal length at 300mm. This telephoto lens from Nikon is fast with its f/2.8 and it has the new Vibration Reduction technology. The lens also has a new focus mode, weatherproof sealing and focus limit switcher.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens will be available in January 2010 and cost about $5900 so you need a big budget to be able to purchase this lens.

Press release:
Nikon Introduces the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II

Raising the bar for hand held telephoto photography

Amsterdam, The Netherlands, December 10, 2009 – Nikon Europe today announces a new super telephoto lens to replace the AF-S VR NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G IF-ED. The AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II features the new generation of Vibration Reduction technology (VR II) and a new A/M focus mode, making it an ideal choice for sports, action and wildlife photographers. This lens is designed for those who are serious about photography.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: “The AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II comparatively light weight and compact dimensions make it a perfect choice for hand held super telephoto photography, particularly when used with a teleconverter. The new VRII system offers four or more stops of compensation, and makes this a really practical solution for the news and wildlife photographer”. The evolution of the NIKKOR lens reflects a commitment to developing a range of products tailored to photographers’ needs, and it strengthens the line-up of high-performance NIKKOR lenses.

Sharper action images
The AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II features the second generation built in Vibration Reduction (VRII), providing the ability to shoot at shutter speeds up to four stops slower so sharper images can be achieved when using the camera for hand-held shooting. In addition, the new A/M mode added to existing M/A and M modes enables autofocus priority even if the focus ring is being handled during shooting. Weighing in at 2,900g this is a lens that ticks every box for those who are serious about action photography.

Built for any environment
This super telephoto lens is designed with the photographer in mind and has the same excellent optical system as its predecessor. Those who need extreme speed and quiet to capture wildlife, can rely on the autofocus with a built-in silent wave motor to ensure you won’t disrupt the action. To top off the extensive features,, this lens is also sealed to withstand the affects of dust and moisture, allowing photographers to keep shooting whatever the conditions. Finally, the lens construction features eleven elements in eight groups, including three ED glass elements and Nano Crystal Coat.

Specifications
Focal length 300mm
Max/min aperture Min f/22 Max f/2.8
Lens construction 11 elements in 8 groups
Picture angle 8◦10’
No. diaphragm blades 9 (rounded)
Closest focusing distance 2.3m/7.5ft. (AF); 2.2m/7.2ft. (MF)
Filter/attachment size 52mm
Diameter x length Approx. 124 x 267.5 mm/ 4.9 x 10.5 in.
Weight 2,900g