Nikon Coolpix A Hands-on Preview: Digital Photography Review

Body & Design

In the hand

The Coolpix A is a small camera - being around 10% larger than Sony's RX100 in every dimension. This means it will fit in coat pockets, even if it won't quite fit in most trouser pockets. The camera's front and rear panels are aluminium alloy, while the top plate is magnesium alloy, so the camera has the cold, rugged feeling you'd expect of a camera costing this much.


Despite its small size, the Coolpix is relatively easy to hold - a small rubber patch on the top right of the back plate, combined with the raised, leather-textured rubber ridge on the front of the camera provide something to hold on to. We'd still recommend using a wrist strap, of course. The thumb dial is well positioned for changing settings from the shooting hand position. Buttons that you might want to use in combination with the dial are ranged down the left hand edge, with the exception of the Fn1 button, that is probably easier to use with the fingers of a supporting hand, rather than the right hand.

Despite its small size, the Coolpix is relatively easy to hold - a small rubber patch on the top right of the back plate, combined with the raised, leather-textured rubber ridge on the front of the camera provide something to hold on to. We'd still recommend using a wrist strap, of course.

The thumb dial is well positioned for changing settings from the shooting hand position. Buttons that you might want to use in combination with the dial are ranged down the left hand edge, with the exception of the Fn1 button, that is probably easier to use with the fingers of a supporting hand, rather than the right hand.

User interface

The Coolpix A's user interface will be immediately familiar to an entry-level DSLR user. As usual, pressing the [i] button brings up a settings panel screen. The arrow keys navigate around the screen, then pressing 'OK' lets you select a setting to change, with a second 'OK' press required to confirm the change.

	The Coolpix A's interface is essentially the same as the one used in the company's DSLRs. And, just as on a Nikon DSLR, pressing the [i] button allows you to interact with the settings.

Dial behavior

The Coolpix A features two control dials - a primary dial on the top right-hand shoulder of the camera and a standard compact camera dial around the four way controller. The primary dial, as you'd expect, sets the primary exposure parameter (Shutter speed in M or S mode, Aperture value in A mode, Program Shift in P mode).

Sadly, as with many photographers' compacts we've tried, the dial on the rear of the camera is rather under-used. In manual exposure mode it controls the aperture value but is unused in both S and A modes. There's no sign of the Nikon 'Easy Exposure Compensation' option in the menus that would allow its use to control exposure compensation directly in P, S and A modes, as happens on twin-dial Nikon DSLRs. Instead you have to hold down the Exposure Compensation button and spin the top dial.

The directional keys on the 4-way controller are used to move the autofocus point around the frame during shooting, as well as navigating menus and the [i] settings screen.

Body elements

	The left-hand side of the camera features a focus mode switch, making it easy to switch between auto and manual focus. Manual focus fine-tuning is always available in AF mode. MF mode doesn't magnify by default, but the magnify +/– buttons on the rear left of the camera allow the preview to be zoomed. A distance scale is available, whether zoomed or not.
	The front plate of the Coolpix A features an infrared receiver, allowing the use of the (optional) ML-L3 remote release.
	There is a manually triggered pop-up flash. It's got a guide number of 6 (m/ISO 100), which is pretty standard for a camera such as this. Sadly it can't be used as a commander flash to control Nikon's wireless 'Creative Lighting System' as the built-in flashes on higher-end Nikon DSLRs can.
	The camera has an HDMI socket on one side, to allow video playback. There's no mic socket for capturing better sound quality than the internal microphones can muster.
	On the left-hand flank of the camera are the Coolpix A's other two ports. The top one allows attachment of a wired remote or GPS unit. The lower socket is the camera's USB connector and can be used with the optional WU-1a Wi-Fi module, to offer some remote control and wireless file transfer to smartphones.
	The Coolpix A uses the same 7.4Wh EN-EL20 as used in the Nikon 1 J-series. Despite this relatively large battery, the Coolpix A's battery life measures a relatively low 230 shots per charge, when tested to CIPA standards.

Function buttons

The Coolpix A has two customizable function buttons - one on the front plate of the camera, the other on the rear left. The front button (Fn1), can be set to one of eleven options. The ISO button, which can be re-purposed as Fn2, can have one of seven functions applied to it.

Any on/off setting simply requires you to press the button and the effect is active for your next shot (e.g. Flash value lock or +Raw). Any parameter that has multiple settings, such as flash mode or ISO is controlled by holding the button down and spinning the main control dial. No confirmation step is required, so the process is pretty rapid.

Better still, the camera offers good control over Auto ISO, meaning it's possible to re-assign the ISO/Fn2 button without having too much impact on convenience. The Auto ISO option allows you to specify the maximum sensitivity the camera will use, along with the minimum shutter speed it should allow before increasing ISO (with a 1/1000th to 1 sec range being selectable). Given the camera's single focal length, this makes it easy to specify a shutter speed appropriate for avoiding either camera shake or subject movement, then get on with shooting.

Fn1 Options
• Flash mode (default) • Release mode • Self-timer • FV lock • AE/AF lock • AE lock only	• AE lock (Hold) • AF lock only • AF-ON • Exposure Compensation • + NEF (Raw)
ISO/Fn2 Options
• ISO Sensitivity (default) • White Balance • Image Size/Quality • Metering	• Active D-Lighting • Auto Bracketing • Monitor brightness

First impressions

The Coolpix A is an interesting addition to the large-sensor fixed-lens market and one that will undoubtedly catch the eye of shooters looking for an alternative to using the Fujifilm X100 or X100S with wide-angle adaptor, and it's more conventional than Sigma's DP1 Merrill. We suspect the name badge on the front and the familiar menu system will interest some Nikon DSLR shooters who want something smaller and more discreet as a second camera.

Our first impressions are that it seems to behave pretty-much as you'd expect - it's based on a proven (if rather button-press reliant) interface and the performance of this pre-production model didn't ring any alarm bells (it's too early to draw any firmer conclusions than that). We're impressed that Nikon has included monitor brightness as one of the Fn button options - it's a useful thing to be able to access on a compact without a viewfinder.

Our biggest concern, though, is one of specifications. While we're sure there are people who will be happy with a fixed 28mm equivalent lens, we're not sure how many of those will be happy to pay $1100/£1000 for a camera with a relatively modest F2.8 maximum aperture.

Comments

Total comments: 441

after using Nikon p300 as my daily pocket camera , (I mean when I got up and it will be in my pocket all day ) later I go for Fuji XF1 ... but less then a year the metering system got error. I think it could be the on/off switch on the lens wasn't that solid build. So I go back to Nikon P300 , till this Nikon coolpix A ...good quality of photo , very sharp image. Normally I will bring LEICA M9P with Tri-ELMAR-M f4/28-35-50mm+ NIKON coolpix A , just these two cameras will travel with my scooter and my dog easily....NIKON coolpix A will taking all the night shooting and closed-up. NIKON coolpix A is a good pocket cameras , worth the money.

0 upvotes

Good combination. That would be good enough for travelling almost anywhere. For those who couldn't afford or just don't want a Leica M can just go for the E-P5 with the 45mm f 1.8 or the 20mm f/1.7. That's the way to go.

Save the DSLR for more specific photography like sports, fashion shows and wildlife.

For more specific landscape photography, use a Hasselblad medium format camera.

Comment edited 6 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

The best portable all rounder at the moment is the Olympus E-P5. Very well made, weighty, full of useful features, versatile and fits snugly in ones hand. Try it for yourself. However, it may not be a cheap option. Like gourmet food and wine, it is worth it.

For landscape and group photos while travelling to difficult places, the Nikon A is probably the best option. You can even climb Mount Everest with it without feeling it is there. Pair it with the E-P5 with the 45mm f/1.8 and the 75mm f/1.8 one can take most photos with ease.

However, one can also get the 12mm f2.0 for the wideangle on the E-P5 but given the price of the lens is only slightly cheaper than the Nikon A one must as well get the Nikon A. Remember, changing lenses in odd places may not be convenient and sometimes not possible. One must always be ready to shoot.

0 upvotes

I am looking for a portable all-rounder (compared to my DSLR). I always look at raw ISO 100 in the studio scene comparison. I compare Nikon A, Ricoh GR, Sony RX100 and Fujifilm X20. Although I like Fujifilm as a camera package, I have to say RX100 and X20 are terrible close to the edges. Nikon is brilliant, and Ricoh is only second.

Now I do not know whether my eyes play me some tricks, or they are somehow conspiring to empty my pocket, but when I compare these cameras and as usual I look at the watch plate at the lower right, I wonder about all those dithyrambs for the Sony and the Fujifilm... The test photos show the same, corners are terrible...

0 upvotes

I almost dismissed this camera as another gimicky P&S until I laid my hands on one recently. The built quality and weight was excellent. Like a two doors sports coupe, this camera is definitely not meant for the average owner. It will be appreciated by someone who wants the best image quality in the smallest form factor. If one is going places backpacking like climbing a mountain in Tibet this will probably be the best camera you can have. If one plan to shoot some travel portraits of people as well, this camera will be best paired with, say, the latest Olympus EP-5 with the 45mm f/1.8 and the 75mm f/1.8. A two camera combo is always the safest bet as well in case one fails. The Nikon A does the wide angle while the EP-5 does the portraits. When one expect quality in the most discreet way I suppose one cannot think of the cost involved. Most important, one must be able to get the job done, in this case the photos.

0 upvotes

The lens is too wide for my use. It is a 28mm in 135 land. This would make it a poor lens for portraits. 35mm lens are about wide angle limit. This would make this camera limited in it's people use. At f2.8 I am sure lens is sharp. delay time in camera opening is also an issue, turning on. Nikon a nice short zoom for it being a a point and shoot or compact camera. An F2.8 28mm, worse over choice in my book. The X100s is more of a camera, with a viewer and to me the right prime lens, be nice with a good zoom lens. If you want to go lite, look at a X20, the IQ is not there, but it is small, and versital.

0 upvotes

This camera looks awesome, but I have been leaning towards the Sony RX100. I was thinking it maybe more versatile. Another option I am curious about is the canon eos M with the 22mm f2. It's bigger but I have seen it for $499 brand new. I am wondering if that would be a great camera and worth extra bulk for the low price. Or is the low price a sign its a loser? I have an XZ-1 but really want to step it up without carrying my DSLR.

Comment edited 2 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

I think the nikon camera is the best camera and it is so easy to use .You can find more information how , it’s packed full of useful features that can make it a lot easier to take simple shot. more information .http://www.nikonp500.net

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 2 minutes after posting

1 upvote

Anybody know if it can do 35 mm crop like the Ricoh GR?

0 upvotes

For that price it ought to come around to your house and process the shots for you and bung them in an album too

1 upvote

It doesn't, no.

0 upvotes

$1,100.00...hahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahah..........hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah. Hope I made my point.

2 upvotes

They were asking that price before Ricoh unveil the much superior GR at $300 less. I bet their price is already falling.

0 upvotes

At $300 less i'd say hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha. Have I made my point. It's a fancy point and shoot.

0 upvotes

It's a fancy point and shoot with a sharp, fixed focal length lens and a sensor big enough to take advantage of a really good lens. Whether this level of image quality, limited to 28mm-only is worth the price, even when it gets closer to the Ricoh, is another story.

0 upvotes

Set aside the price, an increasing group of people are not in favour of carrying around a bulky DSLR.

Instead they seek an outstanding compact camera, fitting in a big (coat) pocket, or a small 'belt bag', with preferrably an APS-C sensor.
They may be the "once in a while photoshooters", but whilst doing so, they donot wish compromise on quality too much, accepting that compact cameras are simply incomparible to DSLRs.

I think there aren't too many compact camera's with an APS-C sensor.

Fujifilm x100s:
127x74x54mm (5x2.91x2.13"), 16.3 MP, 2.8" screen (460.000 dots), 35 mm, abt usd 1400

Leica X2:
124x69x52mm (4.88x2.72x2.05"), 16.2 MP, 2.7" screen (230.000 dots), 36 mm, abt. usd 1950

Nikon Coolpix A:
111x64x40mm (4.37x2.52x1.57"), 16.2 MP, 3" screen (921.000 dots), 28 mm, abt. usd 1100
(famous D7000 sensor)

The Coolpix A is the smallest and have a 3"/921.000.
In this specific segment, at this moment, I believe they offer competitive product.
=

2 upvotes

Ricoh GR :
117x61x34mm have 3" 16,3MP (sensor K5IIs) 3" 1.230.000 28mm f/2.8 with 9 blades, built in ND for about USD.800, - you know the winner already.

0 upvotes

Thankfully the Ricoh GR might force down the price of the Nikon A.

0 upvotes

The Ricoh will force the price of the Nikon lower because the sort of enthusiast interested in one will be familiar with the other. But some people will have have to have Nikon so it may take a while.

0 upvotes

"an APS-C compact with a fixed 28mm equivalent F2.8 lens - is the latest example and is something that would have seemed incredibly unlikely just a few years ago."

DPREVIEW HAVE YOU GONE NUTS

SIGMA DP1 DP1s DP1x DP1m
ALL APSC
ALL 28mm f2.8!!

2 upvotes

I had the same thought.
+1

0 upvotes

The DP1 was the camera that proved it wasn't as unlikely as it had seemed, up until that point.

It's the latest example of the trend that the Sigma started (which I think I acknowledge somewhere else).

1 upvote

I had a SIGMA SD13 , I only use it for less then a year....broke the inside pink filter once ... it is a nightmare to clean the sensor.

0 upvotes

It's got nice sharp corners, that's for sure.

0 upvotes

Another absolutely useless P&S and POS camera that will be purchased by a few people with more money than sense.

1. Non-interchangeable lens and not even a zoom? Toy camera.
2. No viewfinder? Soccer mom
3. That ugly round appendage you have to pay extra for, which increases the size of the camera considerably? An afterthought

I'd rather buy a Fuji X20, really, APS-C or not

0 upvotes

well actually, ALL of the best performing lenses in the world are primes, and good photographers use them to their advantage rather than zooming for everything.

9 upvotes

As a professional photographer I will say this...

I almost never use a zoom lens. Even if my P&S camera has one. I sometimes use a zoom on my pro bodies but its a Canon L zoom.

On small P&S cameras I never use the viewfinder if there is one, I much prefer using the screen. I find it to be much more dynamic style of shooting as opposed to pressing a cigarette pack sized camera up against my face.

I don't care about the accessories, their design or their price as I'm not going to buy them.

As it stands the Nikon A and the Ricoh GR are the closest thing there are to a digital Contax T3. Which is like having my prayers answered.

5 upvotes

Whilst also having an old Coolpix and regularly using its small zoom, I wonder whether I would be missing this feature. For instance, if you wish to shoot a detail of a building. Personally I think a 2x (maybe 3x) high quality zoom would be very nice.

0 upvotes

Another camera from Nikon that will appeal to a very small market segment. If you like this style of camera (I do not), wait a year until they are selling for half price. The optical viewfinder is very cool but $450? Please.

2 upvotes

it is a good tool but non of the tools mentioned by many of you is noticeable better! They are quite similar under low ISO indeed....and for ISO on the 3200 level Nikon starting to lose slightly ...compare with e.g E-M5. Fuji X systems is in a different league as hight ISO is concerned (there are real photos out there...)
You may see something else, something different of course....amazing times we can chose our cameras per something else that picture quality which is simply great for most of the high tech toys!

0 upvotes

I was considering getting a Fuji X100S or a Nikon D7100 and when I saw the Coolpix A announcement for the first time I thought it was rubbish. However,when I compare the A with the XE-1, D7100, X100S and the Olympus OM-D using the dpreview tool, to my eyes there's no question that the Coolpix A is noticeably better than the others in terms of IQ (I only compared RAW at lowest ISO). I asked my 15-year old daughter to come and check as well without telling her anything and while scanning every inch of the test image she chose the Coolpix A every time. This morning I played with it in a local shop and although my heart was set on a X100S, I must say that the Coolpix A is now making me think twice. I think the IQ is amazing.

3 upvotes

fuji has the best high iso aps-c sensor EVER.

0 upvotes

Wrong, just take a look at DXO ratings.

There is a new High ISO king and it's called the Coolpix A.

Even comparing the Fuji to the Nikon A, it is pretty clear in RAW that the Fuji is applying heavy handed noise reduction, just take a look at the yellow hair next to the robot at 1600 ISO in RAW and you will see that that is the case.

Now if you are saying that noise at that ISO is not as apparent on the FUJI, you would be correct, but i would point out that neither is any semblance of detail...

0 upvotes

Both excellent choices with outstanding image quality. Forget DxO ratings, they are for fans and engineers. It's easy enough to take a few shots and see what looks best to you.

0 upvotes

I would rather save money and put up with the size of a Canon G1X.

1 upvote

While I think 28mm-only is too restrictive (but I would have jumped on it if it had arrived at the same time as the Ricoh GRD) hopefully this will put an end to the idea that a good wide angle zoom is just as good as a fixed focal length. This may come close to being true when size and cost don't matter but with a small camera, it matters. In any event, it's certainly more flexible than trying to photograph a group of people at a table with a 35mm lens.

0 upvotes

If you shoot raw (I do exclusively) then I think the Nikon looks great. If you shoot jpeg mostly I would go for Fuji. Fuji is quite remarkable at high ISO so if you are in dark areas frequently could be important. Not so much for me.

0 upvotes

The A's RAW is astonishing! And I wouldn't tell apart its jpgs from the D7100. I wonder what went wrong with the OLFP removal on the D7100. The X is less sharp (not soft though) but more consistent across the ISO range. And I think that's the whole point of the X-Trans.

1 upvote

I was fan for x100s but I heart is turning to coolpix A

1 upvote

Why most of the raw files are so soft. Compare to Canon G15 the jpeg has more detail then most of them at ISO1600

0 upvotes

LOL, that has got to the worst attempt at trolling I have ever read...

Come on, I know you can come up with something better, just write down a few thoughts on paper and decide which one will be best.

6 upvotes

CP A is best here. Even better then D7100. The rest of the files are not so raw. If their jpeg engine process these "raw" file to jpeg, every detail and color will be gone, IOM. I also wonder why Canon and Olym can produce better jpeg. May be they process from direct raw not cooked raw.

0 upvotes

I don't understand why Coolpix A and D7100 raw photos at low ISO look worse than their JPEG counterparts. Has ACR still not been updated to cope with OLPF omission or is it something else? I don't see such bad raw output with CNX2 at home.

Edit: Maybe the globe actually has bad print and surface. The "issue" doesn't seem to be present with other parts of the scene.

Comment edited 5 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

As usual with Nikon, high-ISO JPEG is very unappealing.

0 upvotes

Up to ISO 800 is quite acceptable, more than this becomes more evident the noise. ISO noise the X100S is a winer no doubt.

0 upvotes

However when you look at the RAW shots the X100s looses a lot of detail.
Almost like strong noise reduction is being applied in RAW on the X100s.
Take a look at the hair next to the robot at ISO 1600 in Raw.

1 upvote

Impressed.

3 upvotes

Amazingly, it resolves more detail than the much ballyhooed X100S and definitely more detail than the X100S + WCL-X100 adapter. Just really, really impressive.

8 upvotes

I'm floored by how sharp this lens is when stopped down and with what appears to be minimal CA. Kudos to Nikon for putting a good lens on this thing.

6 upvotes

The Coolpix A is critically sharp with excellent details comparing to other cameras including the D800E - to my eyes - the images are true raw rather then cooked raw.

3 upvotes

Excellent samples, thanks. Very capable camera, I only wish for a portrait tele adapter and a faster AF system, closer to the V1's. But interesting camera anyway.

3 upvotes

So Nikon made a Ricoh GRDIV clone? Without the depth of firmware, multiple custom modes, IS and a f1.9 lens, need I continue?. Oh, it has an aps-c sensor? Hooray! I guess the sensor must cost a lot.

0 upvotes

In fairness, the APS-C sensor will give it more control over depth-of-field than the GRDs. (A GRD at F1.9 would have the same d-o-f as a 28mm F8.8 on full frame, while the A would have the d-o-f of a 28mm F4.3)

I'd agree the Coolpix A doesn't have as effective a user control system as the GRDs.

2 upvotes

I bought it at Best Buy for $899
HEre's how:
Walk in and speak with a manager. Ask him to match the Best Buy sale for $899 on Feb 19. Tell him managers have been matching it.
I got it.
Now I have two A's. One I got at JR, one at Best Buy. I'm comparing the two for differences. So far none.
One advantage of f2.8 is a lot is in focus. The 1.8 cameras are great but a lot if not in focus.
I find the IQ same as X100S, at half the volume! Pocketable, and when you use it at parties or dinners, it looks like "a normal camera." You don't look like the enthusiast.

3 upvotes

+1 for the camera looking "normal" at parties or dinners!

1 upvote

and looking like an enthusiast at a party is bad? Would you rather look like a drunk dooshbag with a lampshade on your head, or the creepy guy hitting on the married women, or the boring, non-interesting guy? I have met more interesting folks (and yes women!) as the "photo enthusiast" than as the nudnik at a party!

1 upvote

The camera looking "normal" is actually a huge advantage for a lot of my assignments.

0 upvotes

Nikon what people want is a digital version of S3!
By the way nice camera, the price is not so nice..., and this camera deserve a better design IMO, more refined design, to not look like her "low-cost" P&S sisters. But it is still desirable!

0 upvotes

Trouble is the Coolpix name implies P&S - really bad move Nikon.

2 upvotes

Bah, all cameras with an "auto" setting can be classified as "P&S" when that setting is used :)

0 upvotes

Yes, Nikon blew it by naming it Coolpix. I will have to overlook this one flaw.

0 upvotes

Get that lens up to an acceptable competitive level and we have a winner. Image stabilized and at least 2.0, but ideally 1.8.
Also a 50 mm version would be a dream.

1 upvote

Make that IS, 2.0, and a VF.

1 upvote

I'm having trouble understanding your competitive level comment as from the RAW samples it smokes the X100s which on paper has a faster better lens.
Why don't you take a moment and start comparing it against any of the point and shoots out there and then start comparing it to the DSLR's.
This camera has blinding sharpness and detail and the lens is absolutely performing corner to corner; something the faster lenses on other brands fail to do...

1 upvote

It's ironic that Nikon put a 1" sensor in their interchangeable lens mirrorless cameras and an APS-C sensor in their point and shoot

4 upvotes

Why don't Nikon run their project plans past us piranhas fisrt?

1 upvote

Nikon Coolpix A scores 80 on DxOMark:

http://www.dpreview.com/forums/thread/3455416

0 upvotes

It makes me want to buy an NX300 with the 30mm f2 lens! ;-p

5 upvotes

Thank you for making this camera Nikon.

Good prime lens (check)
Good sensor (check)
Simple direct control of aperture and exposure (check)
Small size with folding lens (check)
Quiet operation! (check)

To the nay-sayers: It is a matter of priorities. Why are some asking for one half f-stop in lens speed and then comparing to cameras with smaller, less sensitive sensors? If zoom is a high priority you will not understand this camera. Zoom lenses have their strengths and compromises. Interchangeable lens systems are great. A good built in finder is great. Somewhere you pay a cost in size, weight, price, and/or another feature.

I would gladly sacrifice the display for lots of memory, battery life, the best bundled software and a viewfinder, returning to a film-like shoot in the moment and process later philosophy. But I'm not holding my breath.

3 upvotes

they're not talking about a half f-stop difference.
with pi (3.14) being involved, each time you reduce the aperture number by 1, you approximately triple the surface area of the opening. going from 2.8 to 1.8 is rather a significant difference.
each third (approximately) triples the opening's surface area (and light it lets in).
diameter_opening = focal_length / aperture_number
area_opening = opening_diameter * pi

Not sure what posts you were referring to, but you don't have to go to a small sensor camera to get a bright lens in a compact package. Think of the Canon EOSM, Sony NEX6/NEX7, Samsung NX210/NX300/NX1000 (which, incidentally, with the 30mm f2 lens, are the same size as the Nikon A)

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 9 minutes after posting

1 upvote

"each time you reduce the aperture number by 1, you approximately triple the surface area of the opening"

Timmbits, I am afraid you did not use your own formulas very well and the second one is just wrong. The correct one is :
area_opening = (radius^2)*pi = (diameter^2)/4*pi

If we compare two apertures A1 and A2, and their corresponding diameters D1 and D2, we have :
D2=D1*A1/A2.
So starting from A1=F2.0 and decreasing by 1 gives A2=F1.0 thus D2=2*D1 (with an area multiplied by 2^2 = 4, greater than 3)
But starting from A1=F16 and decreasing by 1 gives A2=F15, thus D2=(16/15)*D1 and an area increase of (16/15)^2, that is to say an area multiplied by about 1.14... a 14% increase.

0 upvotes

BillPhillips- I agree with you 100%!!!
The funny thing is that this camera outperforms the other cameras that have faster lenses at the corners even after they stop down to match the 2.8 aperture.

0 upvotes

I don't mind 28mm equiv or f2.8. I just mind the $1100 thing. It's clearly a sharp lens and f2.8 is pretty fast even for low light flash free indoor work. However, it costs basically twice as much as an RX100, which does have a smaller sensor but managers f1.8 which to me is nearly a wash (aperture equiv says f4.2 vs f4.9). Oh, and the RX100 has a zoom which some people care about I just leave it at 28.

A has a ND filter, which is nice no doubt. RX100 has image stabilization and a zoom, which are also nice. Very comparable cameras to me, not very comparable prices.

Comment edited 3 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

Did Nikon do ANY marketing research? Or conversely, what type of unbiased marketing research would even suggest the viability of this feature set.

Two features are totally missing. A viewfinder - optical or electronic, it doesn't matter...and definately not a $400+ option protruding from the top! The second feature is interchangable lens capability (with an adapter for existing glass as the camera can accomodate a more compact lens design of the same DX sensor focal length.)

VIEWFINDER - People are getting tired of 100% dependence on the LCD screen, washed out and reflecting your face in outdoor settings. Belive me, I hear it from my wife with her P&S to the extent that I am now shopping for small compact. An OVF/EVF at least gives you the option.

LENS. Prime lens is fine...but at least give people the option with interchangability. Fixed prime on rangefinders left the station with digital zoom P&S and has become a consumer expectation.

2 upvotes

Hit character limit so a little clarification on "lens" above before somebody posts "Leica". Consumer level $50 35mm film cameras all had fixed primes and people were satisfied. With the advent of digital and LCD screens, zooms became an expectation. On the high end, Leica and other rangefinders accomodated other focal lengths with FOV markings in the viewfinder. Even their zoom was 3 set focal lengths in one lens rather than continuous zoom. Now EVF allows zooms in rangefinders like theNikon V2, Sony NEX 6 and 7, as well as some Fuji models.

Omitting the viewfinder and interchangability when creating a small alternative to the DSLR with a crop sensor. They modeled after the wrong nitch camera (Fuji 100s) when they should have modeled after the the Fuji EM-1 which evolved from the Fuji 100 and has the far better feature set.

Nikon is late to the game. Do they have time to "evolve" the line like Fuji did? For my wife, will be a NEX-6 for her bday in May. Nikon eliminated itself.

Comment edited 7 minutes after posting

1 upvote

I'm sorry to have to say this, but your post is a little bit absurd. While you've just described a third of the mirrorless cameras already on the market, lens interchangeability no longer allows this to be the camera what it is and was intended to be (pocketable, compact, flat). Obviously they could have chosen a better lens, but perhaps they didn't want to go head to head with an urban-shooter like the x100s, preferring to offer a wide angle landscape camera instead.

Nikon aren't about to introduce a viable alternative to their DSLRs, the weapon they are totally invested in for the market share wars. And the f2.8 makes sure they are not competing with their lucrative fast primes that fetch top dollar.

See, offering the same thing with different labels slapped on is kind of redundant anyways - you found the nex6, and should be glad. (However, if you want something that comes close to what you are describing, the NX300 plus 30mm f2 (45mm equiv) may be more to your taste). ;)

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 5 minutes after posting

3 upvotes

PS: did you mean Fuji X-E1 which evolved from the X-pro1? that is definitely a NICE 35mm f1.4 lens that comes with that. (53mm equivalent)

Comment edited 30 seconds after posting

1 upvote

TakenUserName, like many people, have as their only concept of a camera an SLR or more likely a DSLR and compact cameras are like the Fujifilm X series (which i love and are terrific cameras). Long before people like him were around there were such things as the Voigtlander Bessa-L or the Zeiss Ikon SW Super, which are where cameras such as the Nikon A are picking up from and rightly so. If you want a camera which is pocketable and will offer great image quality, a camera with optional viewfinder and pretty much of a flat design is what you need. But personally I expected a lot of those kinds of comments from a lot of people, it's a by-product of the digital revolution in photography. People nowadays don't even stop and think how did people back in the days of traditional photography ever produce such brilliant work without all the bells and whistles and tricks we have today.

1 upvote

LOL...why dont you compare the NEX6 to the Nikon A in the comparison chart.
The A is on another level.
The A is also much smaller.
Since you like Sony so much, why not compare it to the $2700 RX1, at that point I think you will find the camera very appealing for it's size and level of performance

0 upvotes

I like that it looks like a point and shoot to the casual viewer. Good IQ and reasonable speed is all I need.

I hope it sells well.

0 upvotes

@Satchel - Image stabilisation? How many DSLRs do you shoot with that use IS for wide angle primes. What's that you say? None? The only thing missing here is a built in EVF.

0 upvotes

he is very very very angry out of frustration: he has the shakes.

1 upvote

Note to DPR: I just got an email from NikonUSA, the GP-1 GPS unit is not compatible with the Nikon A. There is no GPS capability on this unit. Only the Wifi dongle is available for this product.

1 upvote

No stabilisation?! RUKM? Would likely have bought one but that's just freakin' stupid. Oh, and spare me the predictable and ignorant "you don't need IS on a wide-angle lens" responses. Ya right.

2 upvotes

LOL.... so after seeing the samples and the comparisons against DSLR's, high end Point and Shoots, and Mirrorless cameras, where the Nikon A bests most of these handily, and still fits in your pocket.
You claim that you would have purchased it but it doesn't have IS so no sale?
Why don't you just say, nice camera but I can't afford it, we would have respected you more for it :)

0 upvotes

Getting better there, Nikon!

Now, on your next upgrade for this model, put the OVF on the upper corner within the camera body (built in)... and watch sales soar.

Getting there, Nikon...

Getting there...

Comment edited 1 minute after posting

1 upvote

I am wondering whether if the UR-E24 adapter will significantly increase the size of the camera... I would probably consider leaving this on all the time for protection, filters and the lens hood. It is too bad Nikon has not posted a picture with these accessories mounted on the camera, unlike the OVF...

0 upvotes

Just saw a photo of this setup at:

www.nikonrumors.com

0 upvotes

Also the thing looks awesome. Like a tank. This is what I want my camera to be. Black serious photo taking machine. I want a battery that just lasts. Durable and resistant to moisture. Fast operation. And fits in a pocket. We are getting there ...

0 upvotes

Very cool. Glad to see Nikon stepping up ... but ... we need a faster lens to make this thing exciting. At least 2.0 but why not 1.8. Nikon is a leader in engineering lenses. I am a fan of the GRD line, and this is way cooler because of the APS sensor. But we need a kick ass lens here.

1 upvote

Camera sounds amazing. Probably the smallest APS camera available.

"It has a 7-bladed diaphragm and a lens shutter that work together for essentially silent operation."

The NEX cameras sound like a bomb went off when you push the shutter (GF1/GX1 also).

For anyone desiring a truly compact, pocketable yet versatile (has a built in flash) silent camera... this is it. Without any other real alternatives. Thats worth a $1,000 to me.

2 upvotes

Versatile? With a fixed 28 mm eq lens? :) :) :)

5 upvotes

Yes, versatile.

2 upvotes

If you can have it with you always and know that the image rivals or surpasses the best APS-C cameras out there, I would say that is extremely versatile.

0 upvotes

With a f2.0 lens and below $1k this would be a great camera. No other APSC camera is so small. I would get one... Sad that they went with only 2.8

5 upvotes

I'm pretty sure the lens would be significantly larger at F2.0...

Having a fixed lens allows the flash to remain small and unobtrusive...

You can't have everything, specially when it's a camera this small. Really, the more I look at the specifications the more I want it!

And I'm a Canon CPS member.

2 upvotes

Your hang up is one half of an F-stop on a small camera with a good high ISO sensor?

0 upvotes

@bill: in case your Nikonfanmindset forgot, high iso gives you noise and that's not where you get control over DoF from.

@lighthunter: "no other apsc camera is so small"... well, the NX210, with the pancake 30mm f2 is! and the NX300 with same 30mm f2 will be only 11mm wider (about 1/3").

1 upvote

Wrong, the NX210 is not smaller, and why don't you take a minute to compare the studio samples and the 30mm F2 does not have the corner performance that this camera has even stopped down to 2.8.

0 upvotes

Another BS test camera to see how many saps will buy into this. This camera plus a viewfinder comes in at a cool $1400.

My Nikon DSLR's (D700 & D90) plus great glass can't be beat. My P510 & P7100 are just good, nothing special. The big disappointment is the Nikon 1 V1. This camera was a major fail even before it came out and Nikon keeps trying to convince folks to buy into the system by pooping out revised models. Al la V2, J3 andS1. My purchase of the V1 was a bad decision but I was enamored by Nikon and so are many others.

I bought the Sony NEX 6 with the 16-50mm kit lens, after seeing this camera I am so glad I strayed.

Note: Pocketable for $1000, oh please.

Comment edited 5 minutes after posting

3 upvotes

This probably requires a separate thread but, as a D700 owner, I'd be curious to hear what you like about the Nex6; when you use it, how you compare the quality to the D700, etc.

0 upvotes

I agree, and words cannot express my dissatifaction with the Coolpix A. While I am a D7000 user, currently shopping for my wife moving up from a P&S. She demands a viewfinder - OVF or EVF - and a zoom range can attain with multiple lens. Both are lacking.

It realy comes down to 2 cameras, Nikon V2 (only because could use my lens for extreme tele) and the front runner Sony NEX-6. The Sony NEX-7 and the Fuji EM-1 are out of budget, but probably would have been pushed for the Coolpix A if had similar features and the ablity to accept my current glass. Instead, Nikon elects to mimic the Fuji 100 that they initially brought out before expanding the line to includ feature (like interchangable lens) with the Pro and EM models.

1 upvote

Wow,…
I was dreaming so many years if there's pocket size camera with big sensor.
And these days many small cameras with big senors are coming out and even some of them are in retro style.
But I can't buy any yet because I can't decide which one is the best for me.
I am just doing search and search and reading forums and actually I am very enjoying it.
I wish I can find mine soon. ^^

0 upvotes

I'm more the 50mm lens user. I think today you can make easly two or three shots and stich them together to have a 24 mm.

2 upvotes

Total comments: 441