Nikon - Coolpix S550 Digital Camera Review

The greatest, most hi-tech, zillion megapixel camera in the world does you no good if you don't have it with you because it's too big and you don't want to drag a camera bag around all day.  We have a fabulous digital SLR that I use when I'm specifically going out to shoot pictures - and I have this one that is always in my handbag.  It's more than a point-and-shoot, though, and takes exquisite photographs.

With 10 megapixels and a 5x optical zoom, a Nikkor lens (glass, unlike the plastic lenses in some digitals), and some pretty impressive in-camera software, you'll won't be sacrificing picture quality.  Comparing the abilities of this little gem with your cell phone camera is like comparing a Cadillac with Pinto.

Most cameras have red-eye reduction now - the flash briefly flashes before the flash picture is taken, causing the subject's pupils to contract.  The S550 has that - and it also has in-camera software to correct red-eye after the shot.  This is a real bonus for folks who like to snap people and pets and don't want to invest in Photoshop or other image manipulation software to correct red-eye after the fact.

How many times have you taken pictures and later realized that you hadn't held the camera still enough?  The S550 has Nikon's proprietary Electronic VR Image Stabilization - which Nikon puts in it's top-of-the-line cameras and lenses - you'll take the most crisp photographs of your life.

Two other features added specifically for those of use who are the official 'family photographer' - Smile Shutter and Blink Warning.  Seriously!

You just about have to make a conscious effort to NOT take a good picture with this camera.

And the deal clincher?  IT COMES IN PURPLE.  :)