Nikon Coolpix S2: Digital Photography Review

Nikon today announced its second ultra-slim camera, the weather-resistant Coolpix S2. It is very similar to the Coolpix S1; the only difference seems to be purely cosmetic. The most obvious difference on the 5.1-megapixel camera is that it has a sliding lens. It will only come in silver and is slightly larger and heavier than the S1. It will also have another docking station (supplied). Other similarities include the same control layout, 2.5-inch LCD screen, SD card slot with 12MB of internal memory and 35-105mm equivalent. zoom lens. It will be available in early summer for around US$429 (about €448/£299).

Press Release:

Nikon COOLPIX S2

A stylish all-weather all-rounder that’s sure to catch your eye

Tokyo, May 18, 2005 — Today, Nikon continues to put innovation at the heart of the COOLPIX line of digital cameras with the introduction of the COOLPIX S2, featuring a water-resistant body*, meaning the camera can be used. in the most difficult weather conditions.

The COOLPIX S2 features stylish looks, a bright 2.5-inch LCD, slim dimensions – just 22 mm thick – and Nikon’s range of highly intelligent, creative functions that really make pictures in-camera photos become more attractive.

Great pictures, no matter the weather

The aluminum exterior of the COOLPIX S2 not only gives it a certain flair, but also provides it with splash and water resistance making it an attractive camera for outdoor – or simple – users. simply those who are unlucky with the weather.

In addition to its good looks, the COOLPIX S2’s ‘brain’ ensures sharp, clear results and true-to-life colors thanks to its 5.1 effective megapixels and the versatile 35-105 mm Optical Zoom Nikkor ED lens ( 35mm equivalent).

Make the most of your images

The COOLPIX S2 boasts a host of Nikon features that help users improve in-camera images. For example, the D-Lighting function in Playback Mode can be selected to automatically and simply correct underexposure by leaving properly exposed areas while adding light and detail to areas. darker of the image.

Face-priority AF is another smart feature of the COOLPIX S2. By automatically detecting the presence of human faces in the frame, this feature provides clear focus on faces, helping you to get better portraits without any extra hassle. what trouble.

On the subject of portrait photography, the COOLPIX S2 features Nikon’s in-camera Red-Eye Correction function, which detects red-eye caused by flash and digitally corrects it in-camera.

In addition to these great features, the COOLPIX S2 also has a handy Blur Alert function, which alerts users if an image is affected by camera shake so they can recompose and take another shot first. when it’s too late.

Easy to use

The COOLPIX S2 features “right-angle” optics so the lens works without protruding from the body, and the inclusion of a large, bright 2.5-inch LCD means no viewfinder is required. Add to that an easy-to-use Graphical User Interface (GUI) that allows users to select functions by name or icon, and a handy HELP button that displays explanations in 12 user-selectable languages ​​and you There’s an all-round, all-weather package that’s hard to beat.

Nikon has also designed the COOLPIX S2 with energy efficiency in mind, so users can take up to 190 shots with the EN-EL8 Rechargeable Battery (based on the CIPA‡ standard). It also offers a quick start-up time of just 1 second (approx.) and fast continuous shooting at up to 1.8 fps (approx.), making it easy for users to capture fleeting images. .

All-in-one package – includes battery and COOL-STATION

The COOLPIX S2 comes complete with the new COOL-STATION MV-12, allowing users to charge the battery without removing the battery from the camera and connect the COOLPIX S2 to their TV or computer.

COOLPIX S2 features multiple Scene Modes for the most common shooting situations, four of which feature Scene Assist so users can simply choose the mode that best suits the subject — such as Sunset or Portrait—and let the camera automatically choose the optimal setting.

While the COOLPIX S2 is compatible with popular SD memory cards, it also has 12MB of internal memory so users can keep shooting even if they don’t carry any additional media.

For users who want to record movies with sound, the COOLPIX S2 is an ideal choice with four movie modes capable of providing 15 frames per second and VGA quality resolution. After shooting, the COOLPIX S2 can be connected to a TV for easy viewing of the results.

And when it comes to printing prints, the COOLPIX S2 offers PictBridge compatibility so it can be connected directly to any compatible printer without using a computer. Finally, the COOLPIX S2 comes with Nikon’s PictureProject software to help users edit, organize, and share images.

Sales release schedule: The camera is scheduled for release in early summer 2005.

* According to Nikon’s test results, the body of the COOLPIX S2 provides “splash proof” water resistance equivalent to IEC 60529 IPX4. It is waterproof and should never be submerged in water.
† Nikon ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass delivers outstanding sharpness and optimal color correction.
‡ Industry standard for measuring camera battery life. Measured at 25ºC (77ºF); zoom is adjusted with each shot, built-in flash is fired with every other shot, picture mode is set to Normal.

Nikon COOLPIX S2 Other Features

• Dimensions 91.9 x 59 x 22 mm (3.6 x 2.3 x 0.9 inches) (R x C x S) highly portable
• Minimum weight about 140g (4.9 oz.) (without battery and memory card)
• BSS (Best Photo Selector) automatically determines and saves the best exposure from ten consecutive shots
• 4 out of 16 Scene Modes provide Scene Assist (Portrait, Night portrait, Sports, Landscape)
• 3 movie modes with sound and Time-lapse movie mode
• Noise Reduction achieves more realistic color reproduction when used in combination with some
• Scene mode
• The time zone function allows you to set the local time no matter where you are in the world
• Voice recording mode saves up to 30 minutes of audio or up to 5 hours with a 256 MB SD card
• All buttons are carefully arranged on the back of the camera for easy access
• 4x . digital zoom
• Single AF and continuous AF can be selected in Movie Mode
• White Balance Selection: Auto with TTL control, manual 5 modes (Daylight, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Cloudy, and Flash) and Preset
• Playback options: Single, 4- and 9-segment thumbnails, Slideshow
• Built-in flash: there are settings for Auto, Red-eye reduction with front flash, Flash all the time, Flash cancel, and Slow sync.

Specifications of Nikon Coolpix S2

Additional images