Nikon Coolpix S6150 | Imaging Device Review

Touch Screen Controls, fantastic value and great features make the Nikon Coolpix S6150 a tempting buy.

Key features:

16MP

Optical 7 x zoom, 7.5 cm (3in), approx 460k-dot

Wide-viewing angle TFT LCD screen

720p video

Peer into the core of the Nikon Coolpix S6150 and you�ll find a 16MP CCD sensor with Nikon�s Expeed C2 image processing system, which promises enhanced 720p HD video recording and high sensitivity performance.

Motion detection and lens-shift vibration reduction help to compensate for camera shake, and Nikon�s Best Shot Selector choose the sharpest image from a swquence of 10. The emphasis here is on automatic operation 19 scene modes and a scene auto selector will appeal to those who prefer to simply point and shoot. The Smart Portrait mode offers a range of useful features, including skin softening, blink warning and smile shutter. You can further improve shots via the Retouch menu, Nikon�s D-Lightning contrast adjustment is probably the most useful.

As you�d expect from Nikkor ED glass, the versatile 5-35mm zoom on the Nikon Coolpix S6150 delivers sharp images with plenty of detail.

Images exhibit a hint of grittiness even at the lowest ISO settings when viewed at 100 percent, although you won�t notice it unless printing is pushed to extremes.

Colors are generally accurate, occasionally erring on the warm side. 720p movies from the Nikon Coolpix S6150 are good, appearing smooth and finely detailed. Filming controls are limited though you can only change autofocus, white balance and wind noise reduction. The stereo microphone has a tendency to pick up the sound of the zoom.

It�s slim but sturdy build, rubberized finish, raised lens mount and thumb rests provide confident, assured handling. The touch screen is less tactile, although it does make pictures look glorious. Most importantly, the Nikon Coolpix S6150 can produce detailed, balanced images.

PC Plus [Marcus Hawkins]