Nikon today announced two new Coolpix cameras and a continuous LED lighting accessory. While the Coolpix cameras, the P7800 and S02, are evolutionary models of existing products, Nikon did add some enhanced features and boost performance.
Coolpix P7800
The Coolpix P7800 is a premium point-and-shoot at the top of Nikon’s advanced compact camera lineup. With rangefinder-like body design and various dials for modes and settings, specs wise the P7800 hasn’t changed drastically from its predecessor, the P7700 (which remains in the lineup). The camera carries over the same 12.2-megapixel, 1/1.7-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensor; 7.1x optical zoom lens (28-200mm) with lens-shift vibration reduction, 1080p video recording, and f/2-4 aperture; and a 3-inch vari-angle flip-out LCD (rated 921k dots).
The P7800 might look the same as the P7700, but there are some changes. Where there was once a dial for selecting ISO, white balance, bracketing, etc., that has been replaced with an electronic viewfinder that’s rated at 921k dots, giving users two options for framing a shot; a new Quick menu button gives you access to those settings. Nikon is still holding out on building in Wi-Fi in its cameras, but the P7800 does support it via an optional adapter (WU-1a). ISO has also been enhanced (80-3,200), as well as burst mode (8 frames per second).
The P7800 gives users advanced shooting modes and higher-end features in a compact, without moving up to a compact system camera or DSLR. In terms of specs, it isn’t as strong as Sony’s $750 Cyber-shot RX100 II, but at $550, the P7800 isn’t as expensive either. The camera is available now.
Coolpix S02
The tiny and cute S02 has received a performance boost from its S01 predecessor. It now uses a 13.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and has a tad larger 2.7-inch touch-capable display. It also now shoots movies in 1080p. Otherwise, the camera remains similar to the S01, including the 3x optical zoom. While its specs might not seem noteworthy, the small size makes it an attractive gift item for kids or gramps. The camera comes in silver, white, pink, and blue, and will sell for $180 – available now.
LD-1000 LED Movie Light
Nikon has a new lighting accessory for its 1-series CSC and Coolpix cameras. The LED light attaches to the camera via the tripod mount, and runs on four AAA batteries. It’s not a flash, but a continuous bright light, so you won’t get the glare or washed-out look from a built-in flash. The LD-1000 has a diffusion panel to spread a soft glow, allowing for even exposure and smooth textures. It can also be removed from its bracket to allow the user to adjust the lighting. Price hasn’t been determined, but it’s scheduled for an October release, and will come in either black or white.
