Nikon updates compact lineup, including Coolpix S30 entry-level rugged camera

Nikon has updated several of its simpler compacts with the launches of the Coolpix L810, L26 and S30. The L810 is a mid level 26x superzoom with a 920k dot LCD and 23-585mm equiv zoom. A 16MP CCD helps keep the cost down to around $279.95 but also means the L810 can only capture 720p video. Meanwhile the S60 is a shock- and water-proof 10MP camera with 3x, 29-87mm equiv lens. Finally, the L26 is a pretty standard AA-powered entry-level camera with a 16MP CCD and 26-130mm equiv stabilized lens. It will sell for around $119.95.

At around $119.95, the S30 is extremely inexpensive for a waterproof camera but its very small 1/3" 10MP sensor gives us cause for concern. This, combined with a 230k dot screen and lens only going as wide as 29mm equivalent, suggests that its rounded edges aren't the only corners to have been cut.

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Press Release:

NIKON MAKES IT EASY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY COOLPIX VERSATILITY AND PERFORMANCE FOR STUNNING PHOTOS AND HD VIDEO

Nikon Coolpix L810

Easily Capture Special Moments with Spectacular Photo Quality and Have Fun While Doing It

MELVILLE, N.Y. (Jan. 31, 2012) – Today, Nikon Inc. introduced a new line of COOLPIX digital cameras that combine affordability and convenience with performance and versatility to create a lineup of cameras that are ideal for the modern, fast-paced and connected family. Perfect for any type of family adventure from the sidelines to the backyard, the COOLPIX L810, L26 and S30 each offer a simple, convenient and fun way to capture great photos and HD movies with ease.

Expanding on Nikon's outstanding long zoom reputation, the COOLPIX L810's extremely powerful zoom (26x) offers a chance to capture every detail without giving up the convenience of a compact point-and-shoot camera. The COOLPIX S30 is a new type of camera from Nikon, providing worry-proof construction with a simple to use interface and an affordable price point so any family can enjoy photography with a camera that instills confidence. The COOLPIX L26 is ideal for casual photographers and streamlines photo-taking with intelligent Nikon technologies like automatic Scene Modes and easy-to-understand controls. All three cameras are AA battery compatible for the ultimate on-the-go convenience. "Today's family spends time together in more places than the dining room table; they are on adventures and vacations together, constantly in motion and creating memories," said Bo Kajiwara, director of marketing, Nikon Inc. "Nikon's latest COOLPIX cameras combine Nikon's renowned image quality, advanced performance and superior technology to offer simple and affordable cameras for every member of your family."

COOLPIX L810: Zoom That Goes the Distance

Whether at the game or in nature, users need a camera that can go the distance to get in close to the action. The COOLPIX L810 sports a powerful 26x (22.5mm-585mm) zoom that makes it possible to capture every detail with extraordinary precision. This latest affordable ultra zoom continues in a long line of superb Nikon compact long zoom cameras and features a super wide 22.5mm wide angle lens with VR image stabilization technology to help eliminate blur in photos and movies, regardless of focal length. Nineteen Scene Modes optimize camera settings automatically for picture-perfect results, while the Smart Portrait System helps make every portrait flattering and pictures priceless. Additionally, the COOLPIX L810 features a Sports Continuous Shooting mode to capture fast moving subjects. If still images aren't enough to tell the whole story, begin recording 720p HD movies with stereo sound through a simple one-touch control button and play them back on a 3-inch, 921,000-dot high resolution LCD display.

COOLPIX S30: No Muss, No Fuss - Ready for Action

A wonderful addition to any family, the COOLPIX S30 makes it easy and fun to preserve memories from the priceless to possibly messy, including a baby's first steps, first swim or first plate of spaghetti. Boasting a shockproof* (up to 2.6 feet) and waterproof* (up to 9.8 feet) exterior, the COOLPIX S30 affords a chance to capture all of their favorite moments without hesitation or worry. A 10.1-megapixel image sensor produces high quality images and HD video that can be easily e-mailed, printed and framed for family and friends. A 3x wide angle zoom lens, HD video capabilities and extremely easy-to-use modes like the Smart Portrait System make the COOLPIX S30 simple, durable and affordable.

COOLPIX L26: The Simple Way to Great Photos and Movies

Let the camera do the thinking while marveling at the great images taken with the COOLPIX L26. Simply point, shoot and let the camera do the rest with easy-to-use and intelligent automatic Scene Modes, helping bring out the user's inner photographer. Featuring a 5x (26mm-130mm) optical Zoom-NIKKOR lens for close to intermediate distance shots, the COOLPIX L26 is fun and easy to use whether snapping photos on a field trip or capturing 720p HD video of a birthday party. A wide and bright 3-inch LCD screen, vibration reduction and Smart Portrait technology make this the ideal camera for the beginner or casual photographer who might not use a camera often, but knows they want amazing image quality when they do.

*More information at www.nikonusa.com/S30info

Nikon Coolpix L810, S30 and L26 specifications

Additional images

Nikon Coolpix S30

Nikon Coolpix L26