A few weeks ago, Nikon launched a new high-performance model to satisfy digital camera enthusiasts. The Nikon Coolpix P80 not only offers an impressive 18x optical zoom, it also features 10.1 megapixels of sharp resolution, and a new digital image processing engine. The camera features an electronic viewfinder to allow accurate composition throughout the zoom range and also includes a large 2.7 inch monitor with anti-reflection coating and a wide viewing angle.
The 18X optical zoom-Nikkor lens VR (Vibration reduction) covers focal lengths from 27 – 486mm (35mm format equivalent). I think this is wide enough and at the same time provides far enough reach for most shooting conditions.
Let’s take a quick look at some of the features of P80.
VR (Vibration reduction) offers sharper photos
This function is particularly helpful when you take advantage of the camera’s 18X zoom lens’ super-telephoto focal lengths, or when shooting in lower lighting conditions. You do not need to worry about hand shakes anymore!
ISO 6400 capability
Coolpix P80’s high sensitivity rating of up to ISO 6400 creates new opportunities to take sharper, more natural-looking photos in low light conditions, or to capture fast-moving subjects with outstanding clarity.
Note: ISO 3200 and 6400 are available only for image sizes of 3M (2048 x 1536) or smaller.
Sport Continuous Mode
This camera allows you to capture as many as 30 consecutive pictures at 13 fps in Sport Continuous Mode. Anyway, you can also choose to shoot at 6 fps or at 4 fps. Ideal for sports photography where you wouldn’t want to miss any great moments.
Features at a glance
- 10.1 effective Megapixel CCD
- F2.8-4.5, 18X optical zoom lens, equivalent to 27 – 486 mm (sounds like the same lens as on the Olympus SP-560 and Fuji FinePix S8100)
- Optical image stabilization (which Nikon calls Vibration Reduction)
- 2.7″ LCD display with 230,000 pixels and electronic viewfinder
- Full manual controls; ISO 3200 and 6400 available when resolution is 3M or less
- Sport Continuous mode lets you take up to 30 shots in a row at 13 fps
- All the usual Nikon features: redeye reduction, D-Lighting, and face detection
- VGA movie mode with sound
- 15 handy scene modes for optimized shooting in various settings
- Optimize image (including monochrome filter effect)
- Five movie modes with sound, plus time-lapse movie mode
- Macro shooting from as close as 1 cm (0.4 inch)
- 50MB onboard memory + SD/SDHC card slot
- Uses EN-EL5 lithium-ion battery; 250 shots per charge
- USB 2.0 High Speed support
What I think…
The good
- 18x optical zoom
The bad
- Bulky if you are looking for a compact camera.
- Some features are only available at 3 megapixels
Anyway, I think this is still a pretty sharp camera to get if you are looking for a all round camera which is good at both the wide and far end, especially when DPReview.com has this to say about P80 “NIKON OUTPERFORMS THE REST WITH THE NEW COOLPIX P80“.