Nikon Coolpix S710

If you are looking for a camera that has the manual features of a digital SLR and the size of a subcompact point-and-shoot camera then look no further than the Nikon Coolpix S710. The S710 offers some impressive manual controls that include a wide angle lens of 28 mm and sensitivity in the upper range of 3,200 when the resolution is full and ISO 12,800 at 3 megapixel. But perhaps most importantly, the S710 features an astounding high-resolution 14.5-megapixel sensor; a number which even just a few years ago would have been thought impossible. The result is, of course, clearer, crisper, brighter and more precise photos than you would never get from any other camera.

The Coolpix camera weighs a miniscule 6.5 ounces and measures 3.6 x 2.3 inches by 1 inch in thickness. The camera is small enough to be classified as an ultrasubcompact digital camera, but its many features and a 14.5 megapixel sensor beg to differ. The case is sleek and elegant – if not somewhat boxy – and is offered in the company’s http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/nikon-coolpix-s710-black/4505-6501_7-33232833.html graphite black, http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/nikon-coolpix-s710-red/4505-6501_7-33232823.html deep red, and http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/nikon-coolpix-s710-silver/4505-6501_7-33232791.htmlbrilliant silver colors. And perhaps best of all, the S710 features a wide, bright 3.0 inch LCD screen on its back, so you can clearly see what you are photographing.

The S710 has a basic movie-capture mode, as well, which features a 640×480 resolution. It is slightly disappointing though to not find a 720p HD video option and, the optical zoom not working while recording (although you can adjust the zoom prior to pressing record), but if you plan to use the S710 for photography and not videography than you need not worry.

In the end, the Nikon Coolpix S710 is an affordable, feature-rich digital SLR in a nearly ultra subcompact body which professionals and passive photographers alike will enjoy.