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Nikon COOLPIX 8700 Digital CameraPrice:
$699.95
Coupling a 2/3-inch 8.31 megapixel CCD imager with an 8.9 - 71.2mm (35 - 280mm equivalent) Nikkor 8x optical zoom lens, the new model...
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Coupling a 2/3-inch 8.31 megapixel CCD imager with an 8.9 - 71.2mm (35 - 280mm equivalent) Nikkor 8x optical zoom lens, the new model stores images on CompactFlash cards (Type-I or Type-II including Microdrives). Other features include a 5-area contrast detect AF system, macro focusing to 3 centimeters, a 235,000 pixel electronic viewfinder, a 1.8-inch LCD tilt / swivel LCD display, a built-in Speedlight flash unit and an external hot shot. Firmware features include burst modes up to 2.5 frames per second, a selection of programmed auto, aperture priority, shutter priority and manual modes, best shot select mode, autoexposure bracketing, shutter speeds from 1/8000 to 8 seconds and ISO ratings from 50 to 400. The Coolpix 8700 offers USB and NTSC / PAL video out connectivity, draws power from EN-EL1, 2CR5 or (with an optional adapter) AA batteries, and has dimensions of 113 x 105 x 78mm. The camera weighs 480 grams without battery or CompactFlash card.\n
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28 Reviews from Shopping.com
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Nikon Coolpix 8700 is an Excellent Evolutionary Upgrade
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Pros: 8 Megapixel CCD, Low Noise Level, Super Viewfinder and LCD, Excellent Optics, Optional Vertical Grip
Cons: Lack of manual focus ring
The Bottom Line:
The Nikon Coolpix 8700 is an excellent upgrade to an already good camera, the 5700. The viewfinder and LCD screen are terrific. Prints from it are spectacular!
The Nikon Coolpix 8700 is an upgrade of the 5700, using the same magnesium alloy chassis, with some significant changes. Of course, the biggest change is the the growth from 5 to 8 megapixels. On a practical level, this means that flawless 16x20 prints are now a reality for advanced amateur digital photo enthusiasts. I've heard a claim that 20x30" prints can be made from 8 MP cameras, but I have yet to try that large a print. Other changes are 1) A significantly better LCD that is both bigger and brighter, 2) A gorgeous viewfinder that is crisp and finely detailed (a real improvement here!), 3)Easier menus that ironically provide even more choices, 4) A focus assist light, 5) Optional composition assist lines that can be switched on and off, 6) A faster start-up time, and 7) A memo recording mode.
A niggling omission that I've wished Nikon would incorporate into their high end Coolpix's is a 35mm style manual focus ring. Why they don't do this I don't know, but can only suppose it's because the lens tube and elements are much more delicate than on a 35mm lens and they don't want people torquing on it.
The camera company where I bought the 8700 (in Portland, Oregon) recommended the Coolpix 8700 over the Sony, the Konica/Minolta A2 and the upcoming Canon Powershot Pro 1. Part of the reason was the full line of accessories, like the eminently useful vertical grip/battery pack. I recommend this and the filter adapter for anyone purchasing this camera.
The Nikon Coolpix 8700 is a great upgrade to an already terrific camera. Because I wanted to be able to print 16x20, I made the switch from the 5700. The other enhancements also make it worthwhile, albeit expensive, to make the upgrade.
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