Nikon Adds 2 Digicams to Coolpix Series

Nikon has added the S200 and S500 to its Coolpix Style Series of digital cameras.

Boasting 7.1 megapixels, a 3x Zoom-Nikkor glass lens, VR Image Stabilization technologies, and sleek metal bodies, both cameras feature a classic camera design as the lens extends from the camera's body when the cameras are turned on. The S200 is constructed from brushed aluminum and the S500 from stainless steel.

The Coolpix S500 is fast with a start up time of 0.6 seconds and shutter lag, in release priority mode, is just 0.005 seconds.

"With the S200 and S500, Nikon is further distinguishing itself as a leader in compact camera design and innovation," says Bill Giordano, General Manager Marketing, Coolpix for Nikon Inc. "These cameras pack style and performance into sleek, metal bodies, allowing even the most style-savvy consumer to enjoy the ease and quality of Coolpix technology."

The Coolpix S200 and S500 feature several imaging innovations designed to encourage carefree shooting for the consumer. The S200 utilizes Electronic Vibration Reduction (e-VR) Image Stabilization, a feature that electronically overcomes camera shake for sharper results.

Both the S200 and S500 have High ISO capabilities; the S200 up to 1000 and the S500 up to ISO 2000. On the S200, the e-VR Image Stabilization feature is activated by utilizing the camera's menu system, while the S500 features a new Anti-Shake button, located on the top of the camera, which activates high ISO, VR and Best Shot Selector (BSS) at the same time to produce clearer results in low light or at telephoto zoom settings.

For image sharing, the S200 and S500 have bright, high resolution 2.5 inch LCD displays with an anti-reflective coating, easing the composition of photos, even in direct sunlight. These cameras also have a 16:9 aspect ratio option, making them perfect for sharing images via a high-definition television.

To simplify the picture taking process, Nikon has incorporated a new menu interface into the S200 and S500, employing illustrated help dialogs for easy navigation and mode selection.

Both the Coolpix S200 and the Coolpix S500 come bundled with Nikon's exclusive PictureProject software that makes transferring, organizing, editing and sharing photos easy.

Both cameras are SDHC compatible and utilize the new ultra-compact EN-EL10 rechargeable Li-ion battery.

The Coolpix S200 and the Coolpix S500 will be available at photo-specialty stores in the US in March 2007 at an MSRP of $249.95 and $299.95 respectively.