Digital Photography Blog: Digital Camera Reviews, Ratings, News, Tips and Tutorials.
February 2010
February 2009
January 2009
August 2008
July 2008
April 2008
March 2008
January 2008
December 2007
November 2007
October 2007
September 2007
August 2007
July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
April 2007
March 2007
February 2007
January 2007
December 2006
November 2006
October 2006
September 2006
August 2006
July 2006
June 2006
May 2006
April 2006
March 2006
February 2006
January 2006
December 2005
November 2005
October 2005
September 2005
August 2005
July 2005
June 2005
May 2005
April 2005
March 2005
February 2005
January 2005
December 2004
November 2004
October 2004
September 2004
August 2004
July 2004
June 2004
May 2004
April 2004
March 2004
February 2004
January 2004
December 2003
November 2003
October 2003
September 2003
Digital Camera Reviews and Ratings By manufacturer:
Canon | Casio | Fuji | HP | Kodak | Minolta | Nikon | Olympus | Panasonic | Pentax | Samsung | Sony | Misc. | Accessories | Lenses
It comes with 20 megabytes of internal memory, Wi-Fi ( IEEE 802.11b/g - the feature of the season it seems) and the new PictMotion function which allows slide shows to be made out of favorite pictures, music and movie files.
The Nikon Coolpix S6 measures 100.5 x 60 x 21 mm and weights 140 grams.
Expect to see it store mid March for a price of �349.99.
Compare prices on the Nikon Coolpix S6 and get the latest price on the Nikon Coolpix S6 at Amazon
Both the COOLPIX S5 and S6 offer a 1/2.5-inch CCD and 6.0 effective megapixel resolution to produce images that stay sharp even when significantly enlarged. They also feature a high-quality 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens with a range of 35-105mm (35mm equivalent) that gives the photographer the flexibility to zoom out for beautiful landscapes, zoom in for tightly-composed portraits, and enjoy macro photography from as close as 4cm.
Both the COOLPIX S5 and S6 have been specially designed to be visually appealing as well as easy to use. The eye-catching wave-surface designs are more than just about great styling - their thin, compact dimensions and form make the COOLPIX S5 and S6 really comfortable to hold.
The COOLPIX S5 and S6 feature a new rotary multi-selector that allows fast circular scrolling for speedy image browsing at up to 10 frames per second, a range of buttons that further simplify operation and an on-screen icon with a cursor that tracks circular scrolling, making it easy to select desired features. Furthermore, users can select functions by name or icon according to their personal preference, and all menus and icons have been made easier on the eye with a new colour scheme and optimised icon dimensions.
The COOLPIX S5 and S6 also boast a new one-touch portrait button, conveniently located at the top of the camera body, making it much simpler to take better quality pictures by offering easy access to Nikon�s unique Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting functions. With Face-priority AF*, the camera can automatically detect people�s faces in the frame, no matter where they are located, to produce sharply focused portraits.
In-Camera Red-Eye Fix detects the unfortunate red-eye effect that can sometimes happen in flash photography, automatically compensating for it in-camera to produce more pleasing results. D-Lighting (available in playback mode) enables users to improve images that are underexposed or taken with too much back light � creating a copy of the image with light and detail added where necessary while leaving the well-exposed parts exactly the way they were.
The COOLPIX S6 delivers the additional advantage of Wi-Fi capability. Offering IEEE 802.11b/g support, it allows users to send images wirelessly to a computer as soon as they are taken or to transfer in one go all images stored in memory to a computer. The COOLPIX S6 also supports cable-free printing**, enabling images to be sent directly to PictBridge-compatible printers without the need to use a computer .
A selection of 15 Scene modes � 4 with scene assist � allows COOLPIX S5 and S6 users to achieve satisfying results, aided by clear focus and optimal exposure in diverse situations. All the user has to do is select the most appropriate scene mode and compose the shot, leaving the camera to automatically select the best settings.
Three movie modes with sound are also available for capturing action at up to 30 frames per second. Both cameras also feature �Time-lapse� movie shooting capability that allows dramatic results to be created out of slow-moving action..
The COOLPIX S5 and S6 help speed up the user�s search for recorded images thanks to a calendar function that automatically sorts images according to the date they were taken. For further versatility, the COOLPIX S5 and S6 come complete with the COOL-STATION MV-14 and MV-15 respectively, to allow batteries to be recharged while they are still in the camera. They also offer USB connectivity and can even be hooked up for TV display.
Finally the COOLPIX S5 and S6 come bundled with Nikon�s complimentary PictureProject software and an easy-to-use wireless camera setup utility which employs a simple wizard to configure the camera for wireless operation. The beauty of PictureProject is that it makes editing pictures, organising shots and sharing images remarkably simple, while a range of available plug-ins lets users extend capabilities as they like.
* Face recognition capability may be limited in some shooting conditions.
** Requires optionally available Wireless Printer Adapter PD-10.
Sales release schedule: This camera is scheduled for release in February 2006.
Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.
Nikon COOLPIX S5/S6 Feature Highlights
Pictmotion with high-quality music
Nikon�s new Pictmotion is much more than a simple slideshow function. Available on both the COOLPIX S5 and COOLPIX S6, it allows you to select your favorite images and movie files, then pick a style and add a music file of your choice from among 5 pre-installed ones, or load your own choice of music* to suit the images. The COOLPIX S5 and S6 then automatically analyse each element to produce an entertaining show with pace and transitions determined by music and style for in-camera viewing anywhere on the generous LCD which has an impressive 170� viewing angle that makes it easy for everyone to see. Furthermore, to heighten enjoyment of audio elements, both cameras also feature a large speaker that delivers heightened sound pressure and a sampling frequency which is increased from 8 to 22kHz * Via PictureProject for Windows only.
Eye-catching wave-surface design
Both the COOLPIX S5 and S6 have been created with a unique wave-surface design that is both esthetically appealing and very comfortable in the hand. They are also available in an attractive range of colours (availability may vary by country or region), with each exterior combining a range of attractive textures comprising a high-grade glossy main aluminum body with elements of protective acrylic, resilient stainless steel and silicone paneling.
Large LCDs
The COOLPIX S5 and S6 feature large 2.5-inch and 3.0-inch 230,000-dot TFT LCDs respectively. Such generous size does away with the need for a viewfinder and makes for easier composition. Both LCDs also offer an impressive 170� viewing angle that makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the playback of still images, movies and entertaining Pictmotion shows anywhere, at any time.
Rotary multi selector and improved GUI
Operation has been made smoother, simpler and faster. A new rotary multi selector incorporated into the camera back enables high-speed image browsing with circular scrolling action at up to 10 frames per second, while a range of buttons built into the rotary multi selector make for more intuitive operation. There�s also an on-screen icon with a cursor that tracks rotary multi selector scrolling to make function selection even simpler still. The COOLPIX S5 and S6 also feature various screens and menus created with a colour scheme that�s easier on the eye, functions can be selected by the user�s choice of name or icon, and all icons have been optimised and made clearer for easy viewing.
Built-in Wi-Fi
The COOLPIX S6 features the additional advantage of built-in Wi-Fi capability to add further enjoyment and flexibility to digital photography. Providing IEEE 802.11b/g support, it enables individual images to be wirelessly transferred to computer as soon as they�re recorded, allows all stored images to be sent to a computer simultaneously and also supports cable-free direct printing* with PictBridge-compatible printers.
* Requires optionally available Wireless Printer Adapter PD-10.
One-touch portrait functions
A standalone One-touch portrait button is conveniently located on the top of the COOLPIX S5 and S6, giving direct access to three innovative Nikon features for in-camera improvement. Face-priority AF automatically finds and then focuses on people�s faces no matter where they are in the frame for pleasingly sharp portraits time after time. In-Camera Red-Eye Fix can automatically detect the annoying red-eye effect that sometimes occurs in flash photography, then compensate for it in-camera to give natural-looking portraits. And D-Lighting can improve underexposed images or shots taken with too much back light by creating a copy with light and detail added wherever necessary and well-exposed areas kept exactly as they are.
Nikon COOLPIX S5/S6 Other Features
Highly compact dimensions of (W x H x D) S5: 93 x 59 x 20mm (3.7 x 2.3 x 0.8 in.); S6: 100.5 x 60 x 21mm (3.9 x 2.4 x 0.8 in.)
Carry-anywhere light weight (without battery and memory card): S5: Approx. 135g (4.8 oz.), S6: Approx. 140g (4.9 oz.)
S5: 21MB (approx.), S6: 20MB (approx.) of internal memory, SD Card compatibility
BSS (Best Shot Selector) identifies and saves the sharpest shot automatically from ten sequential shots
Exposure BSS automatically selects and saves the shot most closely matching user-selected criteria from five sequential shots
USB connectivity supports easy transfer of data to computers and other peripherals
Swift startup of approx. 0.8 seconds; Continuous shooting at up to 2.2fps
Date Counter visually records countdown of days to an occasion or number of days since an important event
Help Button provides easy-to-understand explanations for functions on main menu
Blur Warning informs user after shooting if an image is blurred
Menu available in a choice of 20 languages
Noise Reduction produces better results during low-light conditions
Time zone function enables the camera clock to be set to local time, anywhere in the world
4x digital zoom extends compositional freedom
Rechargeable EN-EL8 Li-ion Battery (supplied) can shoot approx. 210 shots (S5)/ 200 shots (S6) on a single charge
Field Jacket FJ-CP1 water-resistant case (optional) lets users keep the COOLPIX dry to underwater depths of 3 meters
Dock Insert PV-10/PV-11 (supplied) enable direct printing to compatible ImageLink printers
Choice of White Balance Auto with TTL control, 6-mode manual (Daylight, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Cloudy, Flash and White Bal. Preset)
Voice recording available for duration of up to 5 hours or until memory capacity is reached
Hardware Zone has posted a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 where they write - 'In all, we loved the seamless wireless capability found in the S6. It delivers convenience by freeing users from having unsightly cables while providing users with another alternative to offload and share pictures. Quality wise, the S6 was able to capture still with good reproduction and image noise were mostly minimal. Night landscape shots were brilliantly captured as well with commendable color separation and low noise even at ISO 200. Slight edge softening was noticeable though.'
Steves Digicams has posted a comprehensive review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 digital camera where they write - 'Despite its small size and very large 3-inch LCD, the S6's controls are well-placed, being easy to use while not subject to accidental activation. The S6's Multi Selector was effective during playback and while navigating the menu system, able to be both rotated and used as a traditional 4-way controller. The tiny top-mounted zoom control was less effective, being too small to operate with any degree of precision. Having no optical viewfinder, the S6 includes a high quality LCD. The LCD was a very effective viewfinder indoors, intensifying the live image in dim lighting to aid in shot composition. It was less usable outdoors, lacking an anti-reflective surface that would minimize reflections and glare. It's large size allowed Nikon to provide a 25-image thumbnail review mode, useful when you need to scroll through a lot of images to find the one of interest.'DP Interface reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes - 'This camera is a great one for point-and-shoot group snaps but not at night or for sports. I would recommend the Nikon Coolpix S6 for the above use but I think the Sony T30 is a better deal. Well, in case you need built-in WiFi or like its design or whatever your reason to get the S6, but you're stuck between the Nikon Coolpix S5 and S6 - I think the Nikon Coolpix S6 is a better deal: for an additional $40, you're getting a larger LCD, WiFi and slightly better image quality at high ISOs.'
CNET reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes - 'The 6-megapixel Nikon Coolpix S6 is an overly stylish little snapshooter with nice design points, useful features, solid performance, and attractive photos. Its nifty click wheel is a great way to browse settings and pictures, but the rest of its controls are irritating and the Wi-Fi capabilities underwhelming. If you want a stylish camera, you should go with the Nikon Coolpix S5, and if you want a Wi-Fi-enabled model, you should probably wait until consumer Wi-Fi cameras develop more broadly applicable features. If you're desperate for a sleek, pretty camera you don't have to plug in to sync, the NikonCoolpix S6 could be a good choice, but the Canon PowerShot SD430 might be a better one.'
Lets Go Digital Reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 where they write - 'The Nikon Coolpix S6 is a stylish digital camera that offers innovative image editing solutions and a new way of wireless communication. The tests to which we subjected the camera in practice helped form our final verdict. The results can be read in the following Nikon Coolpix S6 digital camera review.... I found working with the Nikon S6 digital camera an exceptionally pleasant experience. The camera truly lives up to its word; ease, excellent image quality and superb innovation packaged in a stylish design. Although the Coolpix S6 camera does leave Nikon room for improvement on a few minor points, such as adding optical image stabilisation, and extending the optical zoom range, this is something for a future generation of Coolpix S-series cameras. The Nikon Coolpix S6 is a camera for those who appreciate ease and value design, whilst keeping a keen eye on innovation. Recommended!'
DCRP reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes - 'The Coolpix S6 won't win any awards for its photo quality. While photos were well-exposed, I found colors to be oversaturated at times and just plain wrong at others (see the greenish cast in some of the sample images). Vignetting (dark corners) and blurry edges were also a problem. Despite having a fancy two-stage redeye reduction, this annoyance still popped up in our flash test. I was also disappointed with the results of our night test shot, which was soft and noisy.... Overall I was a bit disappointed with the Coolpix S6. Sure, it looks cool, and some of the features are really handy. But the bottom line is that photo quality is not as good as other ultra-compacts, and it has more flaws to boot. I'd probably skip the S6 and look at one of the cameras listed below instead.'
DIgiCam Review posts their review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 Wireless Digital Camera where they write - 'The Nikon Coolpix S6 is a very stylish, slim 6 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and a huge 3" screen on the back. The digital camera is one of few to include Wi-Fi support for wireless transfer of photos. The camera has a lot of features built in that aim to produce a better image, such as Face-priority focus, D-lighting, Red-eye reduction, Blur-warning, etc. However all of this is useless if the lens isn't capable of acquiring a sharp clean image. In this case, the Nikon Coolpix S6 is noticably let down by the lens, as it produces vignetting, distortion, soft corners, and soft edges, so no matter how much post-processing goes on, the image quality will always be a weak point of this camera. Add to that, the very high red-eye in indoor photos, that isn't removed by the built in red-eye reduction, and the image quality problems start mounting up. Overall image quality is very hit and miss, one photo will come out looking great, (particularly macro photos), whereas another photo will come out looking awful (the worst photos were left out of the gallery). If image quality was up there with the rest of the cameras features and abilities then this would be recommended, however, as it stands with image quality so hit and miss, it's very difficult to recommend this camera.'
Digital Camera Info reviews the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes - 'The Nikon Coolpix S6, with its sexy all-metal body and big screen, offers some very nice features but still has the “small camera syndrome.�? Symptoms include poor handling from overall tiny size, automatic modes, blurry pictures, a weak flash, and a body sexier than its true functionality. Indeed, the Nikon S6 has perhaps the smallest zoom control ever included on a digital camera and is sure to break thousands of fingernails. The camera is equipped with automatic modes that work well in bright lighting, but lacks the sensitivity needed to capture decent pictures in lower light: users will end up with plenty of blurry pictures if their subjects are moving. The S6’s tiny flash is powerful in the short range, but can’t reach beyond about 8.5 ft. As with many other small cameras, many pictures from the S6 had red eyes and a harsh flash – despite Nikon’s portraiture technology.'
Photography Blog has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes, "As a camera that is good to look at, the Nikon Coolpix S6 fits the bill, but does it take good photos? Thankfully yes - on the whole pictures from this camera are well-exposed, relatively noise-free up to ISO 200, with little purple-fringing. The only flies in the ointment are blurred corners at the 35mm wide-angle focal length and poor night shots. Obviously, as the S6 is strictly a point and shoot camera, it offers very little in the way of creative controls, but it's perfectly suited to it's target audience, and even produces good photos too! If you're looking for a stylish, intuitive compact camera with the option of wireless connectivity, then make sure to take a look at the Nikon Coolpix S6."
Photoxels has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 Wi-Fi and writes, "Image quality at ISO 100 is very good and, to obtain the best results from this camera (including better low-light capability), I therefore recommend setting ISO 100 as your default. ... Overall, the Nikon Coolpix S6 delivers good to very good image quality in "sunny outdoors" situations but is a bit challenged in low-light situations. It does have many practical features, such as BSS, D-Lighting (see User's Experience) and Manual AF areas that help you get the most in those challenging situations."
PCMag has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes, "When it comes to the meat and potatoes of the camera—picture quality—I was a little disappointed. In my still-life test shots, I saw some noise in the flash shot. Color accuracy and saturation were quite good, and images showed decent contrast and only a little fringing. Still, the images taken by the PowerShot SD430 were sharper and more dynamic, although the S6's flash shot had about the same coverage and evenness. The S6's resolution wasn't impressive either. In my tests, it had just 1,400 average lines of resolution, not good for a 6MP camera."
Good Gear Guide has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes, "Nikon's Coolpix S6 is a disappointing entry into the compact camera market. While it does offer most of the features you'd expect, its pictures are below par, and struggled in our image quality tests. The biggest problem was with clarity; the CoolPix S6's pictures just weren't sharp enough. ... Our final test is for image noise, and while the CoolPix S6 did slightly better here it was still left languishing. With a score of .87% in Imatest's noise test, it exhibited some slightly visible, but not particularly problematic noise. ... Image quality aside, the CoolPix S6 is a fairly solid camera. ... Overall, the CoolPix S6 is lightweight, attractive and definitely one of the better designed compacts we've recently reviewed."
CNET has a review of the Nikon Coolpix S6 and writes, "The Nikon Coolpix S6 offers generally excellent image quality for snapshots, though critical viewers may notice vignetting and other minor flaws. Color accuracy and range are excellent, and the Coolpix S6's exposures are generally on target. Its palette is rather neutral and faithful to the scene, not oversaturated as with many other point-and-shoot cameras. The Vivid color setting gives images a little more warmth and pop but doesn't go too far. Flesh tones are warm but not ruddy, even with flash at close range, and the camera's automatic white balance is fairly accurate under most conditions."
Compare prices on the Nikon Coolpix S6 and get the latest price on the Nikon Coolpix S6 at Amazon
Posted by Darren in our Nikon category on February 21, 2005