Like all new electronic toys, I had to take this particular model for a test drive before wrapping it up as a gift for a family member who is absolutely sold on nothing else but point and shoot cameras. Myself owning several Nikon & Canon 35mm/SLR/DSLR systems over the years, I found this Nikon product was worthy of a second look.
The new 12.1 megapixel Nikon Coolpix P90 is packed with all the bells and whistles. Like all point and shoots, it has limited flash capability. For those insistent on shooting in auto mode in low light situations, the noise gremlins are indeed going to be noticeable due to a higher preset ISO. To alleviate that scenario I suggest if auto is the preference, try shooting in a programmed auto mode. This will at least give the photographer options to work with. Taking a page from the competition, a key feature is its 3" tilting LCD screen. The LCD screen has a protective anti-glare coating. The tilted screen is a nice tool for shooting in the prone position. I only question the extension arm's durability over time.
Again mimicking its DSLR cousins with similar features in the Sport Continuous Scene Mode, the P90 is capable of 15fps high-speed shooting at up to 45 frames per burst. The P90 operated smoothly in various transitions and delivered some great outdoor photographs in both auto and manual mode. Surprisingly, I did get a sluggish feel at times when shooting single close up shots indoors & outdoors in auto focus mode.
Packed with a 24x optical zoom (26-624mm) lens, the 4 way Vibration Reduction system incorporates Optical Image Stabilization to an ISO capability of 6400. Add in the Best Shot Selector (BSS), which is the Nikon standard Scene Mode on its DSLR line, this includes Red-Eye, Smile and Blink Proof features. This model is outfitted with basically the same Menu Screen as the Nikon DSLRs.
In video mode one missing feature that would have made this a prized catch is HD. However it does produce average quality video at 24 frames per second with the standard 16:9 aspect ratio. As with all new digital cameras it comes down to memory card speed and good batteries. I highly recommend that buyers spend the extra bucks on SDHC cards, rechargeable batteries and a durable tripod.
Novice camera owners should remember that like all point and shoots, it is all about convenience. Overall, I remain impressed with the P90 and would recommend it to point and shoot users that insist on wanting a little more without going into the DSLR realm.
See more reviews about: Nikon Coolpix P90 12.1MP Digital Camera with 24x Wide Angle Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 3 inch Tilt LCD
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