Nikon Coolpix P60
Nikon Coolpix P60
1
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Nikon Coolpix P60
Editor's Review
The Nikon Coolpix P60 packs 8.1-megapixels and a 5x optical zoom into a small, easy to use point and shoot.A 2.7-inch high-resolution LCD and Electronic Viewfinder makes reviewing images easy. The In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and the enhanced Face Priority Auto Focus ensures that every image comes out clear and crisp.
Specifications
- 8.1 megapixels
- 5x optical zoom
- Sensor-shift Vibration reduction image stabilization
- 2.7-inch LCD display
- Secure Digital memory card storage (12MB internal)
- ISO 80 - 2000
- 2 AA batteries
- Part Number: 25593
- UPC: 018208255931
- Release Date: Jan 31, 2008
Shop for P60 Accessories
Nikon Coolpix P60 Comments & Questions (write your own!)
Nikon P60 (Julie — 08/07/2010)
My photos go to the camera's internal drive in lieu of the SDHC card and then says no memory left after 7 photos.
How do I get photos to go to SDHC card?
reply to this comment
How do I get photos to go to SDHC card?
by James DeRuvo (08/09/2010)
MKe sure you card is properly inserted and that the write protect tab isn't enabled. Then reset your camera. It should automatically defer to the card.
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I can't read the SDHC card in the card reader on my PC. (T-Apple — 11/09/2009)
The card works fine in my Nikon P60, and downloads pictures fine if I use the usb connector. But when I load it in the card reader, XP just searches and searches, etc. Doesn't seem to recognize the format. I've googled searching for any comparable issue.
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (11/12/2009)
The reader may not be compatible with the size of your card. Does it read others that are smaller?
reply to this comment
T-Apple (11/18/2009)
Thanks. After trying to find out more about my HP m1050e re SD card reader characteristics, I went to the web and found you are probably right. Older readers will read SD but not SDHC. Can't confirm but will get an SDHC reader. Thanks, again.
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WHICH IS BEST, P60,CANON 590 OR OLMYPUS 840 (sam123 — 02/04/2009)
I am somewhat less than a beginner and I am trying to decide on a camera for taking scenic pictures and wildlife. Some of family and friends but those will be fewer. I had about narrowed it to the 590 and 840 then came across the p60. i really like the 5X zoom in the olympus and the panorama where they string 3 pictures together. Do either of the other 2 have this feature? I am really confused and would appreciate any insight to make the decision easier, or clearer at least.
Thanks in advance for taking the time to help!
reply to this comment
Thanks in advance for taking the time to help!
by James DeRuvo (02/11/2009)
Although the Panorama feature is a nice feature, the fact is that photo editing software has gotten so sophisticated, that you don't really need it as an in camera feature. Photoshop, for instance, is seemless in it's integration of pictures. So, I wouldn't make it a deal breaker for a camera to have it or not.
Although you like the Olympus 840, it's reviews make it rather middle of the road. HOWEVER, it gets really good user reviews. Out of 32 reviews on amazon.com, 29 are ranked 4 stars or above. That tells me that critics are over thinking the user experience. And that's where it counts.
I've heard the P60 has low light issues, which could give you pause. And when you compare the high ISOs above 800 against the A590, you can really see the images of the P60 start to deteriorate as noise crashes the party in a major way. Not that the A590 or the Oly 850 are much better at 1600 ISO. In fact, only marginally, and what would make me choose over the P60 would simply be a better macro. But the noise of all three is simply unacceptable.
To be frank, I think you should keep looking. But if your dead set on one of these three, then I think the 840 is your best bet.
reply to this comment
Although you like the Olympus 840, it's reviews make it rather middle of the road. HOWEVER, it gets really good user reviews. Out of 32 reviews on amazon.com, 29 are ranked 4 stars or above. That tells me that critics are over thinking the user experience. And that's where it counts.
I've heard the P60 has low light issues, which could give you pause. And when you compare the high ISOs above 800 against the A590, you can really see the images of the P60 start to deteriorate as noise crashes the party in a major way. Not that the A590 or the Oly 850 are much better at 1600 ISO. In fact, only marginally, and what would make me choose over the P60 would simply be a better macro. But the noise of all three is simply unacceptable.
To be frank, I think you should keep looking. But if your dead set on one of these three, then I think the 840 is your best bet.
Does Nikon p60 have in camera cropping? (nicknichols55 — 12/26/2008)
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (12/26/2008)
I'd rather do this with software, frankly. Greater control, better options and an undo button if you don't like it.
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what are the reviews os the nikon P60? (photochick — 09/24/2008)
is the wait for the focus to settle annoying or is it a good feature?
reply to this comment
Aditya D (09/30/2008)
digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... is the Nikon P60, with 30 reviews. I'm not really sure what you mean about your focus question, could you please clarify?
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (09/30/2008)
As Joanne is referring to a wait time, I'm thinking she's referring to the shutter lag or the enhanced Face Priority Auto Focus feature. Shutter lag ( en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shutt... ) is a way of life in digital point and shoot cameras. It's the delay which happens between triggering the shutter and when the photograph is actually recorded. It's a common problem with point and shoot cameras. But there are ways to combat it.
1. Prefocus. Hold down the shutter half way to get a prefocus of the image you're shooting. When it changes, prefocus again. This will speed up your camera's performance during picture taking since it won't have to autofocus before it shoots the shot.
2. Use faster SD cards. Yes, there are faster cards and it does make a difference in writing the image file to the card. This is especially key if you're taking multiple or burst images.
3. Fresher batteries. Use alkalines at least. But I recommend using high energy batteries designed for digital photography. Varta is a good brand. They are usually sold in camera shops, are long lasting (because they are sold in small quantities) put out alot of energy.
4. Pan with the action. You can create some pretty cool shots by panning with your shot, focusing on your subject. This will create the effect of your subject in sharp contrast to the blurry background.
6. Stick with 100-400 ISO. Going higher will cause more noise/grain in your shots, particularly in darker settings.
Doing these, particularly prefocusing and panning with the action will cut your shutter lag by as much as 80%.
As for looking at user reviews - toss out the highs and the lows and you'll get a pretty accurate picture of how well the camera is performing in real world conditions. (you want to eliminate those who want to help sales and those who want to hurt sales, plus you want to be sure there are enough reviews to get an accurate picture).
reply to this comment
1. Prefocus. Hold down the shutter half way to get a prefocus of the image you're shooting. When it changes, prefocus again. This will speed up your camera's performance during picture taking since it won't have to autofocus before it shoots the shot.
2. Use faster SD cards. Yes, there are faster cards and it does make a difference in writing the image file to the card. This is especially key if you're taking multiple or burst images.
3. Fresher batteries. Use alkalines at least. But I recommend using high energy batteries designed for digital photography. Varta is a good brand. They are usually sold in camera shops, are long lasting (because they are sold in small quantities) put out alot of energy.
4. Pan with the action. You can create some pretty cool shots by panning with your shot, focusing on your subject. This will create the effect of your subject in sharp contrast to the blurry background.
6. Stick with 100-400 ISO. Going higher will cause more noise/grain in your shots, particularly in darker settings.
Doing these, particularly prefocusing and panning with the action will cut your shutter lag by as much as 80%.
As for looking at user reviews - toss out the highs and the lows and you'll get a pretty accurate picture of how well the camera is performing in real world conditions. (you want to eliminate those who want to help sales and those who want to hurt sales, plus you want to be sure there are enough reviews to get an accurate picture).
In auto mode can the flash be turned on, I have a Canon at the moment and the flash can only be turned on to different modes, like scene etc. (sbfrench1 — 08/14/2008)
reply to this comment
bukit97 (08/14/2008)
In Auto mode, the flash is always turned on by default.
So you actually don't have to do anything else to turn on the flash. However, you can turn it off if you want to.
In low light conditions, many cameras are programed to automatically turning on the flash, irrespective of which mode you are in.
Like you said, you can also turn on the flash in different modes, to improve the brightness of the picture, or simply to fill in the shadows.
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So you actually don't have to do anything else to turn on the flash. However, you can turn it off if you want to.
In low light conditions, many cameras are programed to automatically turning on the flash, irrespective of which mode you are in.
Like you said, you can also turn on the flash in different modes, to improve the brightness of the picture, or simply to fill in the shadows.
sbfrench1 (08/15/2008)
So, reading the answer to my question is that NO, I can't have it flash in auto everytime I take a picture, I actually have to put it on manual or a scene mode. I use to have a Nikon and I could turn on the flash to go off on auto everytime I took a picture, I guess the Canon cameras do not have that feature. Too bad
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bukit97 (08/17/2008)
The flash is ON every time you set it to Auto.
That's what I mean by ' default '.
Auto actually means the camera takes over the control of everything, including aperture, speed, focusing AND flash.
However, the flash only fires off when there is insufficient light.
When you set the flash on in your Nikon while in auto mode, you are doing a force flash., sometimes called fill flash because it fills up the shadows.
Canon is not that backward. It should be able to do fill flash like the Nikon.
More info on the subject can be obtained if we know the Canon model you are referring to.
reply to this comment
That's what I mean by ' default '.
Auto actually means the camera takes over the control of everything, including aperture, speed, focusing AND flash.
However, the flash only fires off when there is insufficient light.
When you set the flash on in your Nikon while in auto mode, you are doing a force flash., sometimes called fill flash because it fills up the shadows.
Canon is not that backward. It should be able to do fill flash like the Nikon.
More info on the subject can be obtained if we know the Canon model you are referring to.
sbfrench1 (08/18/2008)
I have an elf SD 550, you keep saying the flash is on by default, the flash does not flash on auto unless there's not enough light, I wasnt the flash on all the time, whether I'm in bright sunlight or not. That's my question. I auto mode can I manually leave the flash on all the time.
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Clear pictures in coolpix P60 (Taekwondo — 07/26/2008)
How to set my nikon coolpix P60 to get clear pictures for INDOOR activities, such as volleyball, basketball or taekwondo or child moves? withOUT using a flash.
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (07/29/2008)
Well, the problem is that you'll need a fast shutter speed and wide open lens, but in available light, you'll probably still run into blurring due to camera shake. Best you can hope for is setting the camera for aperture priority or compensate to the max and use a tripod to prevent camera shake. You could boost the ISO, but the higher you go there, the more noise you invite to the party.
reply to this comment
Taekwondo (07/29/2008)
Thanks alot James, I tried what you said, also used the timer, seems it is going to get better pictures than before.
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Nikon P60 or Canon 720IS (Jen123 — 05/11/2008)
For a beginner which would you recommend, the Nikon P60 or the Canon 720IS. What specifications should I consider when making my decision. I also read somewhere that certain memory cards allow quicker 'transfer' of images- can any explain this ?
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Ed (05/16/2008)
I've had a P60 for 5 weeks now. Thoroughly enjoy using the camera. The EVF (electronic viewfinder) is a huge benefit when shooting outside in the sun. The photos are very good. The camera itself feels sturdy in my hand. I am still playing around with it, but it has allowed me to get photos that my older Sony never would have allowed.
Canon cameras get rave reviews and I looked carefully at them, but I wanted 5x zoom and AA batteries and some kind of viewfinder besides the LCD screen. Tried the P60 out my local camera store and bought it that day...on sale!
reply to this comment
Canon cameras get rave reviews and I looked carefully at them, but I wanted 5x zoom and AA batteries and some kind of viewfinder besides the LCD screen. Tried the P60 out my local camera store and bought it that day...on sale!
How to choose - Nikon P60 or Cannon 720 IS? (carneyl — 04/26/2008)
Any advice on choosing between the Nikon P60 and the Cannon A720 IS? Is anyone familiar with these models?
I used to have a small Nikon - model 5600 or similar - which I am 'replacing'. The main reason I'm looking at these 2 models is the increased zoom (5x and 6x in lieu of the standard 3x) Both seem to be a little larger than my last camera - which is a bummer - but I guess I'm willing to trade it for a better zoom.
What I really want is:
compact camera
AA batteries
SD card compatible
better than 3x zoom
minimum shutter lag and next shot lag
dial for easy 'mode' selections (with 'sports' and 'backlit' mode settings)
under $200
mainly for taking photos of my kids (fast moving).
Here's what I'm thinking....
Things I like about the nikon model - its slightly smaller and lighter, I'm familiar with the nikon system/menus, etc; it has internal memory (at least a few photos in the pinch when you find your card full). What I don't think I like is that they have changed the 'scene selector' dial from my old model. On my old camera the two settings I used most on the dial were sports and a backlit one (when the subject is standing in front of a bright window in a darker room- not sure what its called?). I don't think either one of those are on the dial now - they are burried in a scene menu. Also, my old Nikon had a significant next shot delay (not sure if this has been improved or not - they don't seem to publish this data anywhere).
The cannon is slighly larger and heavier, but it has a selection on the dial for 'kids& sports', and it has a better zoom (6x instead of 5x), but no internal memory. I have no eperience with cannons, so it would mean learning a 'new system'. I have no experience with how long the next shot delay is on the cannons.
Anyone have any advice as to how to choose?
The Nikon's aren't even in stores locally, so I haven't been able to try one out - only the P50 model which is similar.
Thanks!!
reply to this comment
I used to have a small Nikon - model 5600 or similar - which I am 'replacing'. The main reason I'm looking at these 2 models is the increased zoom (5x and 6x in lieu of the standard 3x) Both seem to be a little larger than my last camera - which is a bummer - but I guess I'm willing to trade it for a better zoom.
What I really want is:
compact camera
AA batteries
SD card compatible
better than 3x zoom
minimum shutter lag and next shot lag
dial for easy 'mode' selections (with 'sports' and 'backlit' mode settings)
under $200
mainly for taking photos of my kids (fast moving).
Here's what I'm thinking....
Things I like about the nikon model - its slightly smaller and lighter, I'm familiar with the nikon system/menus, etc; it has internal memory (at least a few photos in the pinch when you find your card full). What I don't think I like is that they have changed the 'scene selector' dial from my old model. On my old camera the two settings I used most on the dial were sports and a backlit one (when the subject is standing in front of a bright window in a darker room- not sure what its called?). I don't think either one of those are on the dial now - they are burried in a scene menu. Also, my old Nikon had a significant next shot delay (not sure if this has been improved or not - they don't seem to publish this data anywhere).
The cannon is slighly larger and heavier, but it has a selection on the dial for 'kids& sports', and it has a better zoom (6x instead of 5x), but no internal memory. I have no eperience with cannons, so it would mean learning a 'new system'. I have no experience with how long the next shot delay is on the cannons.
Anyone have any advice as to how to choose?
The Nikon's aren't even in stores locally, so I haven't been able to try one out - only the P50 model which is similar.
Thanks!!
Andrew Skinner (05/15/2008)
Carney,
I've used Canon digital cameras for over 6 years now, and have found that their user interface is very easy. I have tried Nikons and found their user interface to be less intuitive.
As for the quick reaction time. Most point and shoot cameras are not going to be top notch in this arena, unless you're in manual mode or push the shutter down half way (to lock the focus).
Personally, I like the Canon 720 IS ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) better for its slightly longer zoom, manual capabilities, and the user interface. Good luck.
Andrew
reply to this comment
I've used Canon digital cameras for over 6 years now, and have found that their user interface is very easy. I have tried Nikons and found their user interface to be less intuitive.
As for the quick reaction time. Most point and shoot cameras are not going to be top notch in this arena, unless you're in manual mode or push the shutter down half way (to lock the focus).
Personally, I like the Canon 720 IS ( digitalcamera-hq.com/digita... ) better for its slightly longer zoom, manual capabilities, and the user interface. Good luck.
Andrew
canon sx100 or nikon p60????which snaps better quality pics (mohamedsk — 04/21/2008)
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by James DeRuvo (04/24/2008)
For comparison, you may want to check out this resource ( imaging-resource.com/IMCOMP... ). It takes pictures with each and you can compare them side by side.
First thing I noticed is the Canon has a much closer macro range. MUCH closer. I also believe the colors are more accurate in the SX100. The P60's greens seemed a little washed out in ambient light. They're roughly even in sharpness.
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First thing I noticed is the Canon has a much closer macro range. MUCH closer. I also believe the colors are more accurate in the SX100. The P60's greens seemed a little washed out in ambient light. They're roughly even in sharpness.
How does it do in available light? (mricha — 04/08/2008)
My holy grail is a compact that does a bit better than the pack with low light. Even the most positive reviews of the most popular cameras tell me that virtually all compacts start so show crippling noise at ISO 400 and up.
I know that Fuji has staked out this territory, but people seem pretty disappointed with the new F50fd. The P60, looks promising to me with a better zoom than most, manual control, and simplicity. So, I'm wondering how it handles the low-light torture test, if anyone has done any comparisons.
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I know that Fuji has staked out this territory, but people seem pretty disappointed with the new F50fd. The P60, looks promising to me with a better zoom than most, manual control, and simplicity. So, I'm wondering how it handles the low-light torture test, if anyone has done any comparisons.
by James DeRuvo (04/09/2008)
Well, the reason you get noise at ISO400 and up is that manufacturers are packing more and more MP onto the same size chip. I came across an interesting article today about how more mega pixels is not necessarily a good thing. According to Image Engineering ( 6mpixel.org/en/? ) – a company that does testing of digital cameras for photo magazines in Germany – the quality of digital pictures has steadily decreased since the state of the art was six megapixels back in 2004. And because they don’t have a “dog in this hunt,” they put forth a compelling argument for buying new digital cameras with less mega pixels and not more.
The argument is essentially this: CCD chips on point and shoot cameras a smaller and as such, fitting in more pixels causes them to lose light sensivity. Sure, there’s more data on the chip, but the chip can’t absorb the light data and what it ends up with is a picture that has more noise than image quality. In addition, the more megapixels a camera has, the larger the lens it needs to provide the clarity it deserves and prevent diffraction due to a loss of detail with smaller apertures. But since we’re talking portable point and shoots here, those large lenses simply aren’t being made.
Finally, with larger mega pixels comes longer saving time due to their requires huge storage capacity, or more compression if not storing images in RAW format. The result is a noisier image and a dissatisfied camera user who thirsts for high quality and speed but fell into the trap of "more must mean better."
In the end, relying on a smaller MP that can balance all these needs may indeed be a better answer.
And frankly, the P60 is ranked below middle of pack at this point. 31st of 56. I think you can do better.
reply to this comment
The argument is essentially this: CCD chips on point and shoot cameras a smaller and as such, fitting in more pixels causes them to lose light sensivity. Sure, there’s more data on the chip, but the chip can’t absorb the light data and what it ends up with is a picture that has more noise than image quality. In addition, the more megapixels a camera has, the larger the lens it needs to provide the clarity it deserves and prevent diffraction due to a loss of detail with smaller apertures. But since we’re talking portable point and shoots here, those large lenses simply aren’t being made.
Finally, with larger mega pixels comes longer saving time due to their requires huge storage capacity, or more compression if not storing images in RAW format. The result is a noisier image and a dissatisfied camera user who thirsts for high quality and speed but fell into the trap of "more must mean better."
In the end, relying on a smaller MP that can balance all these needs may indeed be a better answer.
And frankly, the P60 is ranked below middle of pack at this point. 31st of 56. I think you can do better.
mricha (04/09/2008)
Thanks. I have seen several references in reviews to exactly that issue: manufacturers know (or believe) that the general public worships MP, so they just keep stuffing more into each generation without providing sensors big enough to handle it. This is partly why lots of critics were really disappointed with the Fuji Finepix f50fd when it replaced the f31fd. People loved the f31fd, then they added lots more MP, but no better ability to handle it when they replaced it with the 50.
Hence my search for who, if anyone, stands out from the pack on handling low available light shots.
There are lots of new fun features, but it seems like no one is making low light a particular priority, based on what I've read so far.
If anyone does a lot of low-light shooting and has found a great camera for it, I'd love to hear about it.
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Hence my search for who, if anyone, stands out from the pack on handling low available light shots.
There are lots of new fun features, but it seems like no one is making low light a particular priority, based on what I've read so far.
If anyone does a lot of low-light shooting and has found a great camera for it, I'd love to hear about it.
by James DeRuvo (04/10/2008)
I have an Olympus SP560UZ superzoom and in it's available light presetting, I can get some really solid low light shots. To a point. The problem is that on auto, the camera always wants to boost the ISO, which invites the noise. By using the preset of available light, you limit the ISO settings available. Then it has to open up the aperture and lengthen the shutter speed, which has it's own trade offs. Camera shake being one. But even DSLRs have to deal with that in low light. If you need low light performance with no flash, make sure you get a tripod and shoot with the autotimer.
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Nikon p6o or canon 590 (rdryfoam1 — 03/23/2008)
I'm a casual photo taker i just ordered a p60. Dd i make a good choice?
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Aditya D (03/25/2008)
I personally like the Canon 590 more, better photo quality, better contrast and colors. But the p60 is a close second. Nikon just takes to make lower end cameras not very well, so I tend to stay away from Nikon on anything under $300, but this also could be general bias. You didn't necessarily make a bad decision, but in my opinion you could have made a better decision. You will still be very happy with the p60, because it is a good camera for the price.
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (03/25/2008)
for comparison, you may want to check out this resource ( imaging-resource.com/IMCOMP... ). It takes pictures with each and you can compare them side by side.
reply to this comment
tpear (03/27/2008)
I am a casual photo taker as well; but wanted a camera with some kind of manual controls. I am trying to decide between the P60 and 590 as well. I am assuming the person who gave the first response, owns both cameras???? If so, what is the flash recycle time on both cameras. This will really help with my decision. I tried the link of the second response but the P60 was not listed only the D60 they are not the same camera(otherwise this was cool site, thanks)
reply to this comment
Aditya D (03/28/2008)
To be completely honest with you I own neither camera. I am one of the designated camera experts on the site, along with James and a couple others. I have had vast experience with cameras and I have dealt with almost every camera model and constantly keep up with new cameras that come out. With that being said, the flash recycle time isn't really a set rate, a lot of it depends on how many photos you've taken and the time in between each photo, as well as the batteries. But as far as speed of flash, most of them are pretty similar, casio is the quickest by a fraction of a second, and canon and nikon are almost the same in every model I've seen. Hope this helps.
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by James DeRuvo (03/28/2008)
Also understand that point and shoot camera flashes are specifically designed out small groups and portrait shots. Moments where a blindingly quick flash (pardon the pun) is less important than say, shooting sports with the DSLR.
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tpear (04/02/2008)
thanks for the response(s)...very helpful. I do take a lot of indoor low light photos of pets and kids, I borrowed a friends digital camera I can't remember the brand....I want to say a Canon A series. I would take one photo and would wait approx 5 seconds or more between shots for the flash. 5 seconds is forever trying to capture a baby smiling. I also like to capture sunsets...especially during travel, but I find a lot point and shoot camera's do not allow me to tweak the settings for a more artistic look. I am only a casual usual...I do not want a SLR too big and too expensive. So I am looking for a camera I can use indoor and out, that will allow me to tweak the settings a little, but does not take 5-7 seconds for indoor or low light settings(with flash) an optical viewfinder would be nice, but not necessary???????? Everyone says Canon...or Nikon but there are 100 of cameras to choose from. Help??????????
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rdryfoam1 (04/04/2008)
THANKS FOR ALL THE ANSWERS,MY P60 IS WORKING WELL FOR ME. I'M STILL LEARNING HOW TO USE IT.
reply to this comment
by James DeRuvo (04/04/2008)
TPear, unfortunately, it takes time to recharge the flash capacitors. Some can do this in 1-3 seconds, but the more pictures you take, the more depleted the batteries, the longer this take. The key is to keep your batteries fresh for flash pictures. You can also cut time by Prefocusing. Hold down the shutter half way to get a prefocus of the image you're shooting. When it changes, prefocus again. This will speed up your camera's performance during picture taking since it won't have to autofocus before it shoots the shot.
Other ways to increase performance are:
2. Use faster SD cards. Yes, there are faster cards and it does make a difference in writing the image file to the card. This is especially key if you're taking multiple or burst images.
3. Fresher batteries. Use alkalines at least. But I recommend using high energy batteries designed for digital photography. Varta is a good brand. They are usually sold in camera shops, are long lasting (because they are sold in small quantities) put out alot of energy.
4. Pan with the action. You can create some pretty cool shots by panning with your shot, focusing on your subject. This will create the effect of your subject in sharp contrast to the blurry background.
6. Stick with 100-400 ISO. Going higher will cause more noise/grain in your shots, particularly in darker settings.
Doing these, particularly prefocusing and panning with the action will cut your shutter lag by as much as 80%.
As for what camera ... you may want to look into Olympus' line of Superzooms, like the SP570UZ (20x zoom) or the SP560UZ. It's a mid range camera that seeks to give users a more SLR like experience without having to pay an arm and leg for an SLR camera setup. On the other hand, you can get a really good SLR - the Canon Digital Rebel XT with lens for a little more than the cost of a brand new SP570UZ. Sure, the XT is only 6MP, but if 99% of your pictures are snapshots, that's perfect as too much MP has it's own problems with noise in the upper range and an SLR has a much larger chip that can give those megapixels room to soak up the light.
reply to this comment
Other ways to increase performance are:
2. Use faster SD cards. Yes, there are faster cards and it does make a difference in writing the image file to the card. This is especially key if you're taking multiple or burst images.
3. Fresher batteries. Use alkalines at least. But I recommend using high energy batteries designed for digital photography. Varta is a good brand. They are usually sold in camera shops, are long lasting (because they are sold in small quantities) put out alot of energy.
4. Pan with the action. You can create some pretty cool shots by panning with your shot, focusing on your subject. This will create the effect of your subject in sharp contrast to the blurry background.
6. Stick with 100-400 ISO. Going higher will cause more noise/grain in your shots, particularly in darker settings.
Doing these, particularly prefocusing and panning with the action will cut your shutter lag by as much as 80%.
As for what camera ... you may want to look into Olympus' line of Superzooms, like the SP570UZ (20x zoom) or the SP560UZ. It's a mid range camera that seeks to give users a more SLR like experience without having to pay an arm and leg for an SLR camera setup. On the other hand, you can get a really good SLR - the Canon Digital Rebel XT with lens for a little more than the cost of a brand new SP570UZ. Sure, the XT is only 6MP, but if 99% of your pictures are snapshots, that's perfect as too much MP has it's own problems with noise in the upper range and an SLR has a much larger chip that can give those megapixels room to soak up the light.
tpear (04/05/2008)
you guys are the the best....Thanks
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by James DeRuvo (04/07/2008)
We're happy to help, TPear. As the old saying goes ... "in an abundance of counselors, there is victory."
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branon (04/20/2008)
Not an answer, but a question- which one has better build quality? I have heard the A-series is rather shoddy. Whereas at least the nikon p50 used to have some magnesium alloy.
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by James DeRuvo (04/21/2008)
Well, if you drop it, I really don't think it matters what camera you have. These zooms will get knocked out of alignment regardless, IMHO. I do think that Olympus' tend to be more robust. But if the construction is a concern for you, then the P50 is aa close second. If that's an issue, then by all means, pull the trigger on the Nikon.
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jacque (08/23/2008)
Nikon Coolpix P60 is a great camera, the problem is NIkon software on your PC need some serious polishing work. Fast and almost flawless in technical issue.
Canon A 560is, contrary has an excellent software very happy with it but the camera is suck big time. There are frequent lag and exposure problem when you needed most to capture a precious moment, 'Click' - 123 - then it snaps. By the time the picture capture the moment already gone. I suspicioous the main culprit is 590is lack of internal memory. The Camera also surprisingly drain batteries power like my 12 megoix Kodak hog the litium-ion in less than 50 picture you you set it on 'Auto'..
Both, Nikon and Canon equally provide gorgeous pictures. If only if you canon didn't blur out for certain uncertain reason every once in awhile. My impatience little girl yell at the camera pretty frequent because all those issues.
At the end, I gave up gave her my Nikon that took me 48+ hrs to hack into the device just to retrieve the pictures from the 3rd party software.
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Canon A 560is, contrary has an excellent software very happy with it but the camera is suck big time. There are frequent lag and exposure problem when you needed most to capture a precious moment, 'Click' - 123 - then it snaps. By the time the picture capture the moment already gone. I suspicioous the main culprit is 590is lack of internal memory. The Camera also surprisingly drain batteries power like my 12 megoix Kodak hog the litium-ion in less than 50 picture you you set it on 'Auto'..
Both, Nikon and Canon equally provide gorgeous pictures. If only if you canon didn't blur out for certain uncertain reason every once in awhile. My impatience little girl yell at the camera pretty frequent because all those issues.
At the end, I gave up gave her my Nikon that took me 48+ hrs to hack into the device just to retrieve the pictures from the 3rd party software.
Chan Nyein (11/17/2008)
I'm currently using both.To be honest, I prefer Coolpix P60 deciding on overall image quality. Although A590 matains its sharpness level very well and enriched with manual control, it can't beat the P60 in line smoothness. P60 Outdoor shot is quite superior to A590.
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walucard (12/15/2008)
well, i recently adquired this nikon p60, and the color are very acurate, that is very impresive because i have a canon a540 and the color are no very well well captured but considering the old model, is ok.
the way i get into this camera was because i buy a canon sd1100, but this canon series, for me, sucks, because the cmos sensor comes with a bad pixel,red colored. and its print in every pic i taked, inclusive i noticed that the bad pixel, inclusive is seen on a daylight, taking to the blue sky. :S.
well for regular person, this defect ond the sensor, could be unnoticed.
anyway i think this was unconfortable, and i went to the store to change the camera for another of the same model.
Store change the camera canon sd1100, and, to ensure product quality.
we opened the box, and we reviewed the camera.
and guess what!!!!, this one, comes with a bad pixel too T.T
that was disappointing , thinking on the brandname of the camera.
anyway, they change the camera one more time, but i chose this nikon p60....
i think is a really god camera.
but when you take photos in macro mode with flash, this tend to be very brighting :s. (my old canon, do not do that)
the other think, this camera is slow shutter, i take a pic to a boy playing with a ball without flash. the ball get blurry. the old canon captured the ball more acurate, but with flash, p60 get it good.
the canon shutters are very quick to snap faster movements, considering point and shot cameras for travell or pocket.
nikon, have more flash modes, for night shots...
another thing, i compare, the fujifilm s2000 hd camera, with a canon sx110 and this nikon p60 camera.
the fujilm s2000 take pics with not acurate colors and the take pics with too much brightness, in automode.
i dont know if you can change that in manual mode.
this camera comes with high definition modes for video and stills.
=
canon sx110, this is a very good camera, good colors, but it doesnt have thet little viewer, only the big lcd display.
and eats batterys.
nikon: too much compress efect on maximum scale shots, the compression rates of the p60, make the foto in big scale, like smoothness. in comparison with the compress rates of canon. but in rezised scales,p60 is great.
and macro only cm10, and dont use the flash with macro.
well thats all.
i dont know sony, panasonic or other brand cameras. but some pocket models or compacts. like kodak panasonic, doesnt have manual controls on your pics.
reply to this comment
the way i get into this camera was because i buy a canon sd1100, but this canon series, for me, sucks, because the cmos sensor comes with a bad pixel,red colored. and its print in every pic i taked, inclusive i noticed that the bad pixel, inclusive is seen on a daylight, taking to the blue sky. :S.
well for regular person, this defect ond the sensor, could be unnoticed.
anyway i think this was unconfortable, and i went to the store to change the camera for another of the same model.
Store change the camera canon sd1100, and, to ensure product quality.
we opened the box, and we reviewed the camera.
and guess what!!!!, this one, comes with a bad pixel too T.T
that was disappointing , thinking on the brandname of the camera.
anyway, they change the camera one more time, but i chose this nikon p60....
i think is a really god camera.
but when you take photos in macro mode with flash, this tend to be very brighting :s. (my old canon, do not do that)
the other think, this camera is slow shutter, i take a pic to a boy playing with a ball without flash. the ball get blurry. the old canon captured the ball more acurate, but with flash, p60 get it good.
the canon shutters are very quick to snap faster movements, considering point and shot cameras for travell or pocket.
nikon, have more flash modes, for night shots...
another thing, i compare, the fujifilm s2000 hd camera, with a canon sx110 and this nikon p60 camera.
the fujilm s2000 take pics with not acurate colors and the take pics with too much brightness, in automode.
i dont know if you can change that in manual mode.
this camera comes with high definition modes for video and stills.
=
canon sx110, this is a very good camera, good colors, but it doesnt have thet little viewer, only the big lcd display.
and eats batterys.
nikon: too much compress efect on maximum scale shots, the compression rates of the p60, make the foto in big scale, like smoothness. in comparison with the compress rates of canon. but in rezised scales,p60 is great.
and macro only cm10, and dont use the flash with macro.
well thats all.
i dont know sony, panasonic or other brand cameras. but some pocket models or compacts. like kodak panasonic, doesnt have manual controls on your pics.
were can I find the P60 in Kansas City (ronmanion — 03/21/2008)
My zip code is 66104
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Aditya D (03/21/2008)
The only place I can find that sells it in a retail store is Ritz Camera. Try checking that out. Best Buy doesn't have the camera yet, or I would tell you to try them. Hope this helps, good luck.
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can I shoot macro? (ronmanion — 03/21/2008)
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Aditya D (03/21/2008)
Yes you can shoot macro up to 10cm (4 in) away from the object (meaning you have to be 10 cm or further from the object to shoot the macro). If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.
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Nikon Coolpix P60 Reviews
Nikon Coolpix P60 Reviews by Digital Camera-HQ Users
- 3.0 out of 5
Good, but not awesome
(Wade — 10/18/2009)
My P60 worked great for the first 9 months but then the lense would not open. I sent it back to the Nikon Repair Center and it took 6 weeks to get it back. It is now out of warranty and the top edge of the LCD is black. The prints also are black at the edge. I always wanted a Nikon, but not so much now.
- 5.0 out of 5
awesome camera
(james webster — 09/22/2009)
The best pocket camera on the market.. loaded with features and really under priced... i love this camera and is recommended to anyone..
- 4.0 out of 5
Pretty Good
(Cliff — 08/28/2009)
After playing around with this camera, I had to say it is pretty good.
For portraits and snap shots, if you use the portrait preset, the image is sharp, so is for Closeup in the scene presets.
Well, I am one of these guys like to use manual setting; once I figure out the settings, it does take good pictures.
This camera takes AA battery. It doesn't use that much energy. Comparing to my old 5 mega-pixel camera, the same battery last way longer.
The down side is the flash take quite a while to recharge. but big plus to the retro design.
- 4.0 out of 5
best buy for compact camera..
(ciao — 01/27/2009)
one of the best for this class.. although i want P80 for extended zoom
- 5.0 out of 5
a great camera with a grip ...
(jimi webster — 12/16/2008)
I have had many coolpix cameras, and they were all good. however none can touch this P-60 in any way... How can they sell this camera for that price.. I bought (2) Its fast and has a great grip and performs so well.. very impressed with the camera.. and the double view is awesome.. thanks Nikon.....
- 4.0 out of 5
nice step forward
(Naser — 07/27/2008)
I used to have coolpix L1, it was nice and simple camera. after that I decided to go one step forward, then bought the coolpix P60. Its nice camera with useful viewfinder, Vibration reduction technology. But I am still learning how to use it for inside sports and activities :)
