The Nikon Coolpix P5100 is identical to the Coolpix P5000 with a slight increase to 12.1MP resolution. Many of you will like this relatively compact digital camera that offers total exposure flexibility in an attractive and durable body. The design is clean with lots of controls that make the camera intuitive to use. The P5100 has one of the best grip on a compact digital camera. The textured and almost all-black finish give the camera a professional look.Nikon P5100 User Profile
- Desire a 12.1MP resolution digital camera with very good image quality at ISO 64.
- Want Image Stabilization to prevent blurred pictures due to camera shake.
- Want an easy-to-use point-and-shoot with manual controls.
- Want full exposure flexibility, plus advanced features.
- Want a digital camera for learning and growing in digital photography.
Like on the P5000, advanced functions include Manual AF area frame and corresponding Spot AF area metering, auto exposure bracketing, manual WB and Best Shot Selector. An effective Vibration Reduction (VR) technology (”Image Stabilization”) allows handholding the camera at slow shutter speeds.
The Nikon P5100 gives very good image quality at ISO 64. Noise is controlled up to ISO 200, but higher ISOs are visibly noisy. No RAW file format is available. It features an optical viewfinder and a real six-blade hexagonal iris diaphragm (10 steps in 1/3EV increments).
Besides AUTO mode and 16 easy-to-use Scene Modes, advanced photographers will appreciate Programmed Auto with Program Shift, Manual White Balance, up to 99 Manual AF areas. Macro mode allows you to get as close as 4 cm (1.6 in.). The LCD is large at 2.5 in. with 230,000 pixels resolution and movie mode is 640×480 pixels 30fps, with sound.
The Nikon Coolpix P5100 gives the photographer a quiet feeling of confidence that it can handle any photographic challenge. It will appeal to the serious amateur photographer desiring a compact and light digital camera with an effective image stabilization and full control over camera operations.