Fantastic quality for a point-and-shoot
I've used various compact point-and-shooters, including Sony Cybershot and a Samsung model, but this Nikon Coolpix takes by far the highest quality images. I shoot a lot on **macro** and in **low light** (dusk and dawn mostly), so imperfections in these conditions really stand out -- and this camera does a great job of minimizing them. When shooting in low lighting, however, be sure to (obviously) hold the camera static. Any fuziness problems I've had have been caused by motion, propping it on a tripod or a steady surface does produce crisp photos.I also like the capacity for manually shifting the focus point (for example, when what you want to focus on isn't at the center of the frame). I use a lot of negative space and off-balance compositions, so this comes in handy. I've even compared some images of the exact same object, same light conditions, etc. to those taken with my Canon PowerShot Pro IS (my "serious" DSLR) and it's amazing how close the Nikon gets despite having a thrid of the megapixels and only a fraction of the features.Only two gripes: one completely mechanical -- the battery compartment lid broke the first month, still have duct tape holding it, thought it was just me but then saw another Coolpix owner with the same problem and solution. The other: I'm a little underwhelmed by the flash, but it may just be because I don't use it frequently at all, so I've been somewhat less meticulous with getting the hang of it.Overall, a great compact camera the quiality of which constantly amazes me.
mpopova
Philadelphia, PA