15:00 JST: Part one of the 'Coolpix³' trio is the new two megapixel, three times optical zoom entry level Coolpix 2000. Designed with the beginner in mind the 2000 has simple controls and ease of use. The 2000 is powered by four AA batteries and has a Compact Flash Type I slot. The 2000 has six shooting modes, five of which are scene modes. The 2000 is also the first Nikon consumer digital camera to have a primary (GRGB) colour filter array.

Nikon Coolpix³ announcements: Coollight SL-1, Coolpix 2000, Coolpix 4500, Coolpix 5700

Phil: Just as a sub-note, although the camera we have is a pre-production unit I was very impressed with its fast startup time (although slower operational speed), good resolution, low noise and excellent colour reproduction. Indeed, the one thing that stands out when you look at Coolpix 2000 shots is rich yet accurate colour, thanks no doubt to its use of a primary (GRGB) colour filter array. We wouldn't normally review a camera at this level, but may make an exception for the 2000 because it is the first Coolpix to use a primary CFA.

Nikon Coolpix 2000 in pictures

Nikon Coolpix 2000 display / menus

Example of live view before half-press	During half-press, AF indicator is shown
Image playback	Image deletion
Playback magnification in x2.0 steps	Maximum magnification, x16.0
Thumbnail display, 2 x 2	Thumbnail display 3 x 3
Press the MENU button to enter either the shooting or setup menus	Shooting menu
Playback menu	Setup menu

Press Release (Nikon Europe):

Nikon Coolpix 2000 Major Features

• 3x Zoom Digital Camera featuring 2.0 effective megapixels
• 2.0 effective megapixels for 1,632 x 1,224-pixel images
• 3x Zoom-Nikkor lens with 5.8-17.4mm coverage (equivalent to 38-114mm in 35mm [135] camera format); digital zoom up to 2.5x magnification
• Nikon's advanced image-processing algorithm ensures faithful color reproduction
• Macro shooting capability as close as 4cm/ 1.6 in. with the convenient Best-Shot Selector (BSS) function
• AUTO Mode for point-and-shoot operation
• 5 Scene Modes - choose from 5 different "scenes" (Portrait, Party/Indoor, Night Portrait, Beach/Snow, Back Light)
• Advanced, built-in 5-mode Speedlight
• Quick Review allows users to view captured images at the press of a button even while the camera is in shooting mode
• Transfer function enables automatic uploading of selected COOLPIX 2000 image data to a computer
• Small Picture function creates smaller size image data for e-mail attachment
• Versatile White Balance settings (including Auto White Balance)
• USB 1.1 interface for Plug-and-Play class
• Ergonomic and simple design features intuitive button layout for superb operability
• Compact and lightweight (190g/6.7oz.) body
• Bright, clear 1.5-in., 110,000-dot, low-temperature polysilicon TFT LCD monitor
• 60 minutes of battery life with four AA-type alkaline batteries (Ni-MH or NiCd can also be used)
• Comes with Strap, 8MB CompactFlash™ card, Video cable, USB cable, Four AA-type alkaline batteries, Nikon View 5 (COOLPIX) CD-ROM

Nikon Coolpix 2000 Specifications

Press Release (Nikon Europe):

Nikon Coolpix 2000

For the digital novice, the Coolpix 2000 is an entry-level model that promises simplicity of operation to anyone who is confident with a compact film camera. Flash and focus are just as expected. The rear screen gives instant replay of pictures and serves as a large, easy to use viewfinder. The camera has ample resolution to deliver images that print at photo album size and the 3x zoom brings close-ups and landscapes within easy reach. For the holiday user the standard batteries are a bonus and the supplied starter memory card can hold a film-roll’s worth of pictures.

The bonus of digital is of course in the instant review of pictures, saving film, and in the extra’s such as creation of small copies for fast e-mailing and one-button transfer to the computer for enjoyment of that “digital stuff”. However, for those who prefer to “point and shoot”, rather than “mouse and click”, the camera has five preset scene modes that prepare the camera for the more demanding occasions where the capable Auto might struggle. Priced competitively and with a feature set aimed at the user who appreciates a built-in lens cover more than a swivel-out screen, the Coolpix 2000 is sure to broaden the appeal of the digital to make an important contribution to the expansion of this market.