Nikon COOLPIX P7000 Review

In today's consumer world, everyone and their grandma seems to be investing in a DSLR since they have come down in price a few years ago. The compact camera's have all been lost along the way. People want better quality to give their pictures a professional look for only a small increase in price from a compact camera. I myself have dived into the SLR world with the purchase of my Nikon D60 and so far have been very pleased with it. Especially with the addition of a 50mm lens, you get that great effect of have only your subject in focus, with everything else in the background blurred out. Then I ran into a problem. Concert event never let me take my DSLR in to take pics. So of course I had to no choice but to use my compact camera. The pics turned out ok, but I've always wanted something that can produce great quality like my DSLR, just in a smaller package.

That's where my search for a high end compact camera started. Most of the models I looked at had alot of the same features. Interchangeable lens, HD video, Hot shoe for flash, external mic. After reading various reviews, comparisons, and tons of sample video and pictures, I decided to get the Nikon Coolpix P7000. This thing did not disappoint. It's bigger than the average compact camera, but small enough to be considered compact that the event workers who checked my bag never thought twice about confiscating my camera or turning me around. If you have a DSLR you will be very familiar with all the dials and functions of each button. If not, don't worry. This camera is very easy to navigate and has tons of features to make the best 1 click shots. But for those who want more control, you have it all at your fingertips.

The quality of the pictures are amazing, and you see the quality through the large 3" LCD screen. This screen is beautiful and bright, I have not seen anything of this quality on a compact camera at all. It's amazing. You'll see from my sample pictures that even in low light, with smoke and lasers and lighting from a concert, the P7000 is able to focus and capture stunning memories. The video quality in low light is just as amazing.

Overall I would say this is a superb purchase for anyone who wants a higher quality compact camera. If a low end DSLR intimidates you, but you want to have something better than your old compact camera, give this one a try. You'll be surprised how easy it is to use, plus it will prepare you for using a DSLR if you ever want to upgrade to something higher like a D90 or D7000, or Canons Rebel EOS series.

Features:
- 10MP CCD sensor
- ISO 100-6400
- 28-200mm (equivalent) stabilized lens
- PASM modes plus 3 custom 'U' modes
- 720p video mode
- Continuous AF / zoom possible in video mode
- Microphone socket for external mic
- Dual control dials
- Flash hot shoe
- Optical viewfinder
- Electronic spirit level
- Dual (front and rear) IR receivers for optional wireless remote

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