Hybrid VR Image
Customer Reviews
LCD didn't work and shipping was late - Sep 02, 2010
I had a bad experience purchasing my Nikon Coolpix P100. I paid extra $26 for the two day delivery so I would have camera for my kids first day of school. Amazon failed me. They took three days for delivery, so I had to take photos with my blackberry. When I did received the camera today the LCD monitor only displays a bright white screen. The view finder works fine, but when you switch back to LCD mode it shows the white screen again. Poor quality from Nikon and poor service from Amazon. I'm returning the camera.
Some great features some poor design - Aug 31, 2010
First, I like the 26 mm to 675 mm (26X ) optical zoom, yet why did they create the lens cap off only to turn it on? Then, I really selected this P100 for the variable 3" LCD screen, but it's not as flexible as the 8400 or 8800 smaller LCD screen. So far the features, menu's and control layout are easily accessed and function for me flawlessly. High 1080 video is excellent, but the still images in JPEG have only (3) savings selects low/norm/fine would have been nice to maintain the Extra Fine settings I have on the 8800/8400. In addition, the P100 ISO lowest setting is 160, compare to the 8800/8400's lower ISO setting of 50. The comparison of images saved in Extra Fine at ISO 50 is very apparent in details and sharpness compared to P100's which seem a little fuzzy. Plus, having no hot shoe for accessories such as external flash or bubble level is another demerit, another demerit for no ability to utilize any sort of screw on filter such as UV/polarization or neutral density.
In defense, it has a great lens, lots of zoom here, focus systems are terrific, Video twice..no 3X's better than 640x480 and with a instant video select button. Finally, the shutter release button is very very crisp compared to any digital compact I have had yet.
All for now, I'm keeping it. Gave it only 4 stars for Nikon needs to get a grip on total design.
CNB
Great camera - Aug 30, 2010
We bought this camera for taking pictures of wild life without getting too close( birds, wolves, alligators, bears, buffalos, etc). We are not professional photographers but this camera makes it seem as though we are. The menues are intuitive and the results are striking. It is a large, heavy camera ( though not as large, bulky as a SLR), nevertheless, my husband and I are taking it to Italy with us because we know that the pictures will be wonderful with no wasted opportunities. We would certainly buy this camera again.
Will never buy Nikon again - Aug 30, 2010
I have always been a Canon girl but heard such good things about Nikon I thought I would give it a try. I used to have a Canon Powershot, which I was very happy with, but kept upgrading until I got a professional-grade camera (Mark ii). I needed an inexpensive "daily" camera to keep in my purse and thought this looked like a good camera, especially after reading all of the reviews. I used this Nikon at a concert and was about ready to chuck it across the building. It would freeze up and get confused when trying to focus on the performers. I had to shut it down and turn it on again. If you have the lens cover on it will give you an error and you have to turn it on and off again. This is not necessary - if you can't see anything in the viewfinder the lens cap is obviously on! At one point it took an entire series of shots even though I only pushed the button once. At one point there was some kind of digital line appearing in a bunch of my pictures. If you are looking for a good quailty point and shoot camera, don't waste your money - get a Canon Powershot!!
Good step up! - Aug 21, 2010
The Coolpix P100 is a very versatile camera which can produce excellent photos. I reviewed multiple cameras in my search for my new addition, including standard point and shoots and SLRs. This camera is highly rated by consumer reports (Aug. 2010) in all areas.
I was looking for a camera that could still be used with automatic settings but also had the options to be in control of settings. This camera has numerous settings for different situations that suit the beginner to the person, such as myself, who is trying to become a better photographer. This is a camera that you can learn how to manipulate settings to create photos that you are seeking. I think I will be more knowledgeable and ready for an SLR when the time arises.
Pros
High quality photos, sturdy feel, user friendly menus and functioning buttons. The LCD screen moves which means I don't have to lay on the ground to shoot a low, upward facing photo. I just adjust the LCD screen. Great zoom range (26x) which goes well beyond the standard 3x you normally get.
Cons
Zoom is a little touchy so you have to work at nudging it to not have it zoom really quick. You also can't take your battery out and charge it seperately which suprised me. You can either charge it via USB port on your computer or use the adaptor to charge at the wall. Either way your camera is sitting out exposed while charging and that makes me nervous.
I'd like a couple more features - Aug 18, 2010
This camera takes really high-quality photos. In fact, they're so good that I've found myself carrying it around instead of my Nikon D80 SLR, which leads to the reason for my 4-star instead of 5-star rating. There are 2 features missing that make it just a little less than ideal as an all-purpose camera. I almost always carry a polarizing filter for my D80 and use it regularly for outdoor photos with that camera. There is apparently no way to use a filter of any kind with the P100. The other omission is a provision for using a remote control or cable release, which I would like for those occasions when I use a tripod to minimize vibrations. If I'm mistaken about either the filters or the remote, or if anyone knows of work-arounds, I would appreciate being informed.
Otherwise, I really like the 26mm equivalent wide-angle end of the zoom range, but I find the power zoom lever difficult to use for fine-tuning the zoom. Even with the lightest touch, it almost always overshoots the setting I wanted. I also like the bright and tiltable display monitor, although as an old-school guy I usually look through the electronic viewfinder, which is somewhat low-resolution like an old VGA display.
I have not done much low-light or video shooting, but the little I have done seems fine by my standards.
Not Disapointed! - Aug 15, 2010
Finally replacing my Canon T70 SLR with this Nikon P100. This is definitely a step up! Love it! No regrets!
A lightweight cover for your Coolpix P100 camera - Aug 13, 2010
I upgraded from the Coolpix P80 to the P100 for the HD movie mode and the faster processor - with no disappointment!
GR8 megazoom 'compact SLR'.
I recommend using the Nikon 9691 Coolpix Fabric Case for protecting the P100. This case is actually sold by Nikon Inc. as accessories for both the P90 and the P100 - since both cameras have similar dimensions (the P90 is 0.3 in. wider than the P100).
P90 dimensions - Height: 3.3 in. Width: 4.53 in. Depth: 3.9 in.
P100 dimensions - Height: 3.3 in. Width: 4.5 in. Depth: 3.9 in.
The case comes without a strap. A 'clamshell' design that is great for protecting the P100 while the camera strap is around your neck or shoulder.
I recommend purchasing this lightweight cover for your Coolpix P100 camera since you can uncover the case in an instant and start shooting with the camera strap still safely around your neck!
Nikon Coolpix P100-The Best Camera I've Ever Owned! - Aug 11, 2010
I purchased a Nikon Coolpix P-100 about three months ago and have worked it in every way possible. It has performed flawlessly producing stunning results and has become the favorite camera of the four digital cameras that I own. The only times that it has given me a 'lens error' have been the times that I forgot to remove the lens cover from the lens before turning the camera on (my fault). By removing the lens cover, turning the camera off and then back on it has recovered perfectly every time. Without going into great detail I'll simply say that I love this camera and it will probably be the last digital camera that I ever buy. I believe that "Bang for the buck" this is the best camera on the market. Truly an amazing camera!
A Lot to Like - Aug 08, 2010
Hours of on-line research narrowed the possibilities to this camera and the Canon SX20IS. I opted for the bigger zoom and full documentation. Right out of the box I was pleased at the size, weight and feel of the Nikon as well as the thorough, lengthy yet easy to read owner's manual. The camera's performance has been great. Macro shots are nothing short of amazing in detail, the auto-mode performs much better than I expected across the range, and the anti-blurring capabilities work very well all the way to full optical zoom. (Adding digital zoom defeats it however... need a tripod for that)
Color replication is good in all modes, though it has a tendency to "wash" vivid hues in circumstances where the entire shot is made of similar colors (trees, grass, weeds, bushes across a field etc) but easily correctable. Night time shots have always been my bane but the P100 does so well in these circumstances that I actually switched back to auto mode and let the camera make the decisions. I have not tried the video mode. The only negatives I have are trivial. The door to the charge/upload slots feels flimsy and the Nikon software is slow to handle uploads to my Mac. All in all, I highly recommend this camera.
Nikon P100 - Aug 06, 2010
Really easy to use-point and shoot. There are lots of options if you choose to explore-I will get them eventually. I love the zoom. No complaints so far.
Nice Camera, Good Price - Aug 06, 2010
I am a "point and shoot" guy and when I have to make manual adjustments using the menu it seems to be user friendly. The ISO, for example, is a quick adjustment and then back to auto easily done. I took about 100 pictures at a Jazz concert using manual adjustments and they came out very nice... a dark theater and brightly lit stage. The zoom works well,however when you get out to maximum you need to be very careful when you pull the trigger. A mono pod would be helpful to eliminate ruining the shot. I really like the camera. The neck strap is uncomfortable and I'll need to find something else, but that's a minor complaint. The "look" and weight of the camera are perfect. I own a full size expensive DSLR with a heavy lens that will now gather dust in the closet..My first digital camera was 1.3 Mps and this is a big improvment from those days. Get one, you'll like it!
Coolpix P100 - Aug 04, 2010
I bought my P100 after my P90 got stolen. Identical appearance, but the P100 seems slightly better. Bigger zoom, and indoor shots are clearer. Both cameras produce excellent outdoor images. The P100 has a neat, easy to use video capture feature which I have not played with much yet. It's almost as good as my SLR only smaller, and you don't have to mess with lense replacement maneuvers.
higher than my expectations!!! - Aug 01, 2010
This camera is over my expectations!
Is lighter than I tought it would be, the battery life is long and the pictures quality is really good.
About the price, I can say that is totally worth it!
Nikon p100 - Jul 31, 2010
Nikon Coolpix P100 10 MP Digital Camera with 26x Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black)
Absolutely wonderful... - Jul 29, 2010
I am a click and shoot kind of guy. Had a Canon AE1 25 years ago - adjust this, set the F stop, focus, change lens - NOT anymore. Went from a small Sony click and shoot to this Nikon P100. Love it. Does everything a more expensive SLR camera does and does it automatically.
A lot for a little - Jul 27, 2010
How can you beat a camera that does all this and cost so little? Fantastic!
Awesome Camera for beginners who wish to use DSLRs - Jul 26, 2010
Hi,
I am a beginner when it comes to photography. I would like to have a try on this product before going in for a DSLR camera due to of course cost factor and usability.I have been using this product for almost a month now, and i would love to say that i am much happy with the performance of this camera, mainly for the kind of picture it takes in MACRO mode. There are lot many options that i need to test before sending in a detailed review, but so far most of the pictures i have taken using AUTO mode came well.
I haven't got any complaints like others described on camera hanging off automatically.All i get is a warning when i switch on my camera, with LENS CAP on. I will switch if off, remove Lens Cap and will then switch it on.
From what i have learnt so far , any pictures that you zoom in beyond 18X would get its expected quality only when you use a TRIPOD.
Overall, I am much satisfied with the performance of my Nikon P100 and hope to use it for much more time before getting hands on DSLRs.Nikon P100 is really Worth for the money spent.
Camera for the novice - Jul 25, 2010
I bought this camera after owning a crappy, old Kodak easyshare point and shoot that my two year old broke. At first, the reviews were overwhelming. I do not want a D-SLR, as I know I am not a professional or a hobby photographer. I wanted something I could zoom and get candid shots of my daughter. I will admit the zoom is a bit cumbersome, the ergonomics could probably be improved, but part of that is just getting to know the device. To date I have been very pleased with this camera. It is easy to use, I like having a viewfinder and the quality of the photograph is vastly better than my old point and shoot. Honestly, we have a Flip video camera, so I have not used the video on this camera. My point is, if you aren't an avid photographer, this camera will likely suit you.
Great Camera - Jul 25, 2010
I didn't get the benefit of a price deduction when the price dropped ten dollars before the camera shipped. so what do you want credit for? P.S. ( The camera is great!!
Just what I had expected - Jul 23, 2010
Ordered this after 2 months of research and handling several cameras in brick and mortar stores. I am not a pro but have been a photo bug since 1971 when I bought my first Nikons (FTN and Nikkormat FM) I also have owned Nikonos II underwater and Olympus and Pentax SLRs
I love the telephoto, having a choice between lcd display and eye piece view, flash controls, and video capability. The display of error messages when I make a mistake (don't remove the lens cap, have the flash up when shooting video, etc) is a great benefit (concise messages and easily understood).
Photo quality is very good but has a little softness the farther you zoom (expected). The controls for the display and viewfinder are a little awkward for my hands but not so much as to be annoying.
I have not yet mastered all the settings but what I have used is very easy to use.
Some of the software (Capture NX2) is demo only and needs to be purchased.
Excellent - Full Featured Camera - Jul 22, 2010
This camera is great. My family has been looking for a camera better then a typical point and shoot and not as bulky/expensive as a DSLR. What we found was the Coolpix P100. The camera has a set of amazing features and an excellent zoom. I used the camera at a graduation as well as at some sporting events and the modes work well. The sport shooting captured clear pictures of people in motion which is one of our favorite features along with the zoon.
Definitely would recommend this camera!
Nikon Coolpix P100 10.3 MP Digital Camera - Jul 21, 2010
I bought this Nikon Coolpix P100 Digital Camera as a replacement for my outdated Kodak V1024 Digital Camera. This camera
is extremely awesome. It looks like a cross between a Digital SLR Camera and Compact Digital Camera. It has great zoom at
26x. This camera has similar features to the Nikon D90 Digital SLR camera.
The advantages of this camera are as follows.
Great focus target indicator system, which displays small green squares over selected objects for ready
to shoot and red squares which indicate not ready to shoot.
The camera is light, easy to hold and a good fit.
The LED screen seems more natural than the usual swing out to the side screens.
Hugh zoom range (26x X 10.3 MP) and quite fast action.
Outdoor sunlight colors quite natural and extremely accurate.
2 step point and shoot, which basically helps to target the picture and then capture the picture.
Extremely good resolution lens at this price range and favorably compares to much more expensive lenses.
Adequately very good view finder Viewfinder is necessary to save power than using LED screen.
This camera is only one that shoots Video in 1080p High Definition.
There are several disadvantages for this camera.
The video is not extremely high quality when shot with 1080p HD.
The camera adjusts the light so that the subjects (foreground) are focused properly with low light, not
so with background as it darkens it in low light.
Other folks who have bought this camera have issues with lens cover, menus, viewfinder, videos etc.
But the fact is that this is a digital camera and not a digital camcorder. I always recommend reading
the Quick Start Reference Guide and the Manual to get the best out of this Digital Camera. I figured
out the Menus of this digital camera in just an hour. I rate the Nikon Coolpix P100 Digital Camera as AA++.
After owning it for 1 month.. - Jul 21, 2010
I purchased it at costco, they had it for pretty cheap about a month ago ($370-). After taking it to Atlanta, Zoo, Carshows, (and in all types of hot, muggy weather I have to add) it's not a bad camera for quick shots with significantly good color. Pictures taken by the p100 weren't meant to be taken with the zoom in all the way, it kills the quality and clarity of the picture.
But I'm dissapointed with this camera. After less than a month of using it (it was brand new when I purchased it) the zoom had froze on me. The cam also gave me an error which you normally get when the lens cap is still on when you turn on the camera without removing it first, after I had already taken it off. The cam has always been neatly and safely tucked away in its case provided with my purchase... yet I have these issues. Last but not least, right before I decided to return the camera, it began having static type lines, like ones you'd see on your tv when a storm is coming. Indeed it is a great camera, but the errors and issues with it don't make it the most reliable camera :(
EXCELLENT CAMERA!!!!! - Jul 20, 2010
My review is mainly for the picture quality. This camera was purchased as a gift to my niece for her 16th birthday. She is very much into photography, and taking close-up shots of nature...flowers, birds, etc, is one of her favorite things to do. She is absolutely crazy about this camera, between the shutter speed, the clarity of the pictures and the zoom, it's just UNBELIEVEABLE!!! I have only seen the pictures, which have been amazing, but haven't seen any video. The reason for me giving this camera 5 stars for everything is, for the price and quality of the camera, you will not find anything else on the market that can compare to this camera without buying the extra lenses.
