Nikon Coolpix P500
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A-
We've given the P500 a grade of A-.
User comments
This product is ranked
| 9th | of 28 | in $300 - $400 |
| 5th | of 28 | in Extended Zoom |
| 30th | of 90 | in 11 & 12 Megapixels |
| 11th | of 30 | in Nikon |
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Editors' Comments
Nikon's P500 rockets into the 2011 superzoom arms race, packing a BSI CMOS sensor and the most versatile lens we've ever seen on a camera like this. Like other BSI CMOS superzooms, the P500 should be a snappy performer and do relatively well in low light settings, and will shoot 1080p video. The lens on this thing is unreal, starting at 22.5mm (the widest on the market) and extending by a factor of 36x, which is the highest zoom ratio on the market as well. Image quality might be a bit soft -- that's in the nature of these kinds of cameras -- but the versatility will be tough to beat.
Specifications
- 12.1 megapixels
- BSI CMOS sensor
- 36x optical zoom
- 22.5mm wide-angle
- Optical image stabilization
- Max aperture f/3.5
- EXPEED C2 processor
- 3-inch tilting LCD, 921k pixels
- Electronic viewfinder
- 1080p HD video, 30fps
- 8fps burst shooting (5 frames max)
- Press-and-sweep panorama
- Manual control (PASM)
- Captures to SD/SDHC media cards
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Release Date: Mar 20, 2011
Nikon Coolpix P500 Comments & Questions (write your own!)
Nitin (02/10/2011)
Will the softness of the photo be similar that encountered on a Canon SX30iS
reply to this comment (Liam McCabe — 02/10/2011)
It's not out yet, so it's really impossible to tell. But, the P500 does have a CMOS sensor, which is known make photos kind of soft (interestingly, the SX30 uses a standard CCD sensor, which doesn't usually have so many problems with softness). Then there's the lens, which I think had a lot to do with the SX30's soft image quality. Nikon, for all we know, could've nailed the design of their 36x model, so we have to wait to find out.
reply to this comment (Nitin — 02/11/2011)
So do you mean the lens used on the Canon SX30 isnt good or is it the long tele-photo which causes the softness?
I was about to buy a Canon SX30 thinking that it was the best that was available at that price (read: no credible competition available). Will it be worth the wait coz I am in India and what i gather it won't be available here before May 2011.
I am practcally keen to look at a ultra-zoom point and shoot camera with some manual features. Before hearing about P500 was looking Canon SX30 or a Nikon P100
reply to this commentI was about to buy a Canon SX30 thinking that it was the best that was available at that price (read: no credible competition available). Will it be worth the wait coz I am in India and what i gather it won't be available here before May 2011.
I am practcally keen to look at a ultra-zoom point and shoot camera with some manual features. Before hearing about P500 was looking Canon SX30 or a Nikon P100
(Liam McCabe — 02/28/2011)
From what I've seen and read, the entire range on the SX30 is soft, which I'm guessing is because the lens is so long. More elements in the lens = more chance for error.
reply to this comment (midhun varghese — 03/12/2011)
you have to wait for nikonp500 ,sony hx100v and fujifilm hs20.among this cameras i prefer fujifilm hs20. because it will be the best in every way. i had found a problem in canon sx30 , its image quality become reduced at the end of the 35x zoom. also when comparing with fuji &sony the lens quality also pour.
reply to this commentSurendar (02/14/2011)
The model has not yet been released.. But how come it got a B ..
reply to this comment (Liam McCabe — 02/28/2011)
We pre-rank all cameras based on specs, and the grade will almost surely increase once the camera comes out. Read more about our grading system on our About Us page:
digitalcamera-hq.com/about_us
reply to this commentdigitalcamera-hq.com/about_us
Joe Prete (02/15/2011)
I was waiting to see what Nikon released, but I've been thinking about the Panasonic DMC-FZ100 with the Leica lens (600mm eqiv.). Maybe they reached the practical limit? I don't think any of them state that every element in their lens is glass.(don't be TOO sure!) Also I think that a lot depends on the input of those few guys that get pre-production models, they are contributers too. All my SLR equipment is Nikon (can we drop the D yet?), but I have Canon G9 and S5IS. I had just paid off the Nikon D300, when I bought the full frame D700. This time I think I'll wait for the dust to settle. B/t/w does anyone else see the P7000 looks like the G12? There are others in the game too, don't count Sony out yet!
reply to this comment (Kunal S — 02/16/2011)
Hi, I am planning to buy a superzoomer/ pro-zoomer point and shoot camera. i am looking at a camera that would be good for outdoors/ landscapes with good zoom, also able to shoot clear, close-up images of people (indoor and outdoors) and with a shake reduction facility. I would also prefer a HD video shooting function.
I am more keen on a Nikon as have heard that their cameras r really good with very good image quality. I am looking to buy either the Nikon coolpix P100 or Canon powershot sx30is or Sony DSC H/55. However, with Nikon P500 getting launched am also keen on that! Nikon P500 looks like an interesting package but why have u given it a B rating?
This would be my 1st high-end camera and would like to gradually pursue photography as a hobby in future and would like to then graduate onto a DSLR later. However, would not like to compromise on the camera that i buy NOW at present. Am losing sleep over this. Kindly advise which camera should i buy. Thnx n rgds, Kunal
email: hikunal@yahoo.com
reply to this commentI am more keen on a Nikon as have heard that their cameras r really good with very good image quality. I am looking to buy either the Nikon coolpix P100 or Canon powershot sx30is or Sony DSC H/55. However, with Nikon P500 getting launched am also keen on that! Nikon P500 looks like an interesting package but why have u given it a B rating?
This would be my 1st high-end camera and would like to gradually pursue photography as a hobby in future and would like to then graduate onto a DSLR later. However, would not like to compromise on the camera that i buy NOW at present. Am losing sleep over this. Kindly advise which camera should i buy. Thnx n rgds, Kunal
email: hikunal@yahoo.com
(Liam McCabe — 02/16/2011)
It's tough to say since the P500 hasn't been released yet. The SX30 is decent, but a little "soft" on image quality. Our favorite superzoom is the Panasonic FZ100 these days, but as you note, there are a bunch of newer superzooms coming out in the next few weeks, so that could change.
reply to this commentJoe Prete (02/16/2011)
It's really not something to lose sleep over. Remember that it's the photographer (or person) behind the camera that takes the picture, not the camera! There is an alternative to the super zoom issue. You frame the photo. You can move in closer and compose the photo. Think about all the elements that go into a photograph. You should also remember that a slow lens (ie. small aperture) even with image stabilization will most likely need a tripod (the original photo stabilizer). That should be one of your first purchases because the smaller the aperture, the longer the exposure! There's something else that effects us as consumers. Having to wait for something only makes us want it more, and we always want what we can't get. (two things come to mind rapidly 1) Women and 2) Apple. The masters of marketing. While we're waiting, remember that it's the Pioneers that are the first to take the arrows (yes, like in war too) and you will be rewarded for being patient.
Good Luck Kunal
reply to this commentGood Luck Kunal
(Kunal S — 03/11/2011)
Hey Liam and Joe,
Thanks so much for all the inputs. it was all really helpful. U guys are like a guiding light for us not-so-tech-savvies...
However, with the D500 on verge of release, i have decided to wait and then finalise between a Nikon D500/ Panasonic DMC-FZ100/ Canon SX 30ix. However, i am eagerly waiting for your review on the D500. Also would really appreciate if you guys can give a brief overall comparisons between the above 3 models as i guess they are the hottest super zoomers currently in the market.
Thanks once again for your support....
rgds, Kunal
reply to this commentThanks so much for all the inputs. it was all really helpful. U guys are like a guiding light for us not-so-tech-savvies...
However, with the D500 on verge of release, i have decided to wait and then finalise between a Nikon D500/ Panasonic DMC-FZ100/ Canon SX 30ix. However, i am eagerly waiting for your review on the D500. Also would really appreciate if you guys can give a brief overall comparisons between the above 3 models as i guess they are the hottest super zoomers currently in the market.
Thanks once again for your support....
rgds, Kunal
Soccer Mom (02/19/2011)
I'm looking for a SLR camera that can be mostly used to take action shots of girls soccer games. I'm not to big on the video thing. Most of the camera I've read about are big on the video options. I would say that would be 8 on my list of camera options/ fuctions. What camera would you recommand? I'm looking not to spend to a fortune. More or less under $500.
reply to this commentJoe Prete (02/21/2011)
Dear Soccer Mom,
First do you mean SLR or DSLR? The "D" that should be dropping off soon stands for Digital. Just SLR (now a very small percentage of the market) was for the film based camera that very few use now. It may cost a little less, but you will spend that on film processing in no time. Go with the market and skip the film camera, you will be up to date right from the start. The $500.00 price bracket is just about the entry level, for a camera body and a "kit" lens. usually an 18-70mm zoom. You will need a zoom lens to catch the action of a soccer game and that's a good range. You might even be able to get an 18-105mm lens (Better!). Just so you know, 18mm is considered wide angle to short zoom and 70-105mm is where the telephoto lens range starts. The portrait range is in there too.
A zoom lens can take the place of several lengths of "prime" or single focal length lenses. But it will save you from changing lenses while you miss the shot (very common problem) and unless you want to pay extra for an inconvenience like that look for a camera with a kit lens, and 18-105 should be in your price range. Some camera shops put a kit together like a Nikon D3100 with an 18-55mm and a 55-200mm(VR) for $599.00 A very good start!
I'm only using Nikon as an example, and I'm sure that Canon has a similar kit with their lenses.Their quality is excellent as well. Like anything else, a guy who likes Ford will tell you to get a Ford. A couple of things that you should keep in mind. 1)Use the internet to see what bodies are current production (lenses do not change nearly as often) and what kit lens or lenses should come with it.
2)If you buy a Canon, you want Canon lenses!
3) Go to the website (ie. Nikon.com or Canon.com) and look at the products. I know Nikon has tools like a lens focal length simulator, so you know what focal length lenses you you will need (NikonUSA.com) I'm sure Pentax, Sony, Canon, Panasonic and Olympus have similar sites.
4)Go to a camera shop that will put a camera in your hands, so you know how the brand feels to you. Make sure you can reach the shutter button and the control dials/buttons. If the camera is for you, it should fit well in your hands.
5)DON'T BUY AT YOUR FIRST STOP! Try it at the shop, handle the lens, check the return policy. Only go to a giant store unless you know exactly what you want, and how much it will cost. The local camera shop may match the price anyhow, but if it's a little more maybe it's worth it for them to show you a few things to get you started. A store near me, has classes for beginners, sometimes included, sometimes at a discount. A bigger store will have short videos on their site like Youtube. A shopping channel may have last years model. Decide the extra warranty question BEFORE you go. Some credit cards have an extra year warranty, some have accident or theft insurance. Don't pay extra for something that you probably will never need and don't fall for the 20 piece kits when 15 of them are the lens wipes.
I know that's a lot to take in for a beginner but you asked a loaded question. Most of the major brands are safe and they have tech support, most of them have image stabilization (IS) or vibration reduction (VR) The Presidents day sales usually run all week. If you have questions, write in, someone will respond. A photo buff will always try to help you. You will always remember your first camera, and at $500.00 you're right at the border, so if it's a little more for the right one. Don't skimp to save $50.00 it's not worth it.
The only other thing you'll need is a memory card or two and some practice. One big advantage with digital is, shoot it, look at it on the screen and keep it or delete it, all in 10 seconds. Write back, let us know how you do. Remember, the DSLR is a step up from the compact super zoom cameras. I'm sure you will see when you hold them for yourself Good Luck Soccer Mom!
Joe Prete
reply to this commentFirst do you mean SLR or DSLR? The "D" that should be dropping off soon stands for Digital. Just SLR (now a very small percentage of the market) was for the film based camera that very few use now. It may cost a little less, but you will spend that on film processing in no time. Go with the market and skip the film camera, you will be up to date right from the start. The $500.00 price bracket is just about the entry level, for a camera body and a "kit" lens. usually an 18-70mm zoom. You will need a zoom lens to catch the action of a soccer game and that's a good range. You might even be able to get an 18-105mm lens (Better!). Just so you know, 18mm is considered wide angle to short zoom and 70-105mm is where the telephoto lens range starts. The portrait range is in there too.
A zoom lens can take the place of several lengths of "prime" or single focal length lenses. But it will save you from changing lenses while you miss the shot (very common problem) and unless you want to pay extra for an inconvenience like that look for a camera with a kit lens, and 18-105 should be in your price range. Some camera shops put a kit together like a Nikon D3100 with an 18-55mm and a 55-200mm(VR) for $599.00 A very good start!
I'm only using Nikon as an example, and I'm sure that Canon has a similar kit with their lenses.Their quality is excellent as well. Like anything else, a guy who likes Ford will tell you to get a Ford. A couple of things that you should keep in mind. 1)Use the internet to see what bodies are current production (lenses do not change nearly as often) and what kit lens or lenses should come with it.
2)If you buy a Canon, you want Canon lenses!
3) Go to the website (ie. Nikon.com or Canon.com) and look at the products. I know Nikon has tools like a lens focal length simulator, so you know what focal length lenses you you will need (NikonUSA.com) I'm sure Pentax, Sony, Canon, Panasonic and Olympus have similar sites.
4)Go to a camera shop that will put a camera in your hands, so you know how the brand feels to you. Make sure you can reach the shutter button and the control dials/buttons. If the camera is for you, it should fit well in your hands.
5)DON'T BUY AT YOUR FIRST STOP! Try it at the shop, handle the lens, check the return policy. Only go to a giant store unless you know exactly what you want, and how much it will cost. The local camera shop may match the price anyhow, but if it's a little more maybe it's worth it for them to show you a few things to get you started. A store near me, has classes for beginners, sometimes included, sometimes at a discount. A bigger store will have short videos on their site like Youtube. A shopping channel may have last years model. Decide the extra warranty question BEFORE you go. Some credit cards have an extra year warranty, some have accident or theft insurance. Don't pay extra for something that you probably will never need and don't fall for the 20 piece kits when 15 of them are the lens wipes.
I know that's a lot to take in for a beginner but you asked a loaded question. Most of the major brands are safe and they have tech support, most of them have image stabilization (IS) or vibration reduction (VR) The Presidents day sales usually run all week. If you have questions, write in, someone will respond. A photo buff will always try to help you. You will always remember your first camera, and at $500.00 you're right at the border, so if it's a little more for the right one. Don't skimp to save $50.00 it's not worth it.
The only other thing you'll need is a memory card or two and some practice. One big advantage with digital is, shoot it, look at it on the screen and keep it or delete it, all in 10 seconds. Write back, let us know how you do. Remember, the DSLR is a step up from the compact super zoom cameras. I'm sure you will see when you hold them for yourself Good Luck Soccer Mom!
Joe Prete
Joe Prete (02/21/2011)
Soccer Mom,
One other thing I should tell you. When I mention camera shops, you should always make sure that the camera shop is an AUTHORIZED DEALER for the brand that you decide to buy. If you're not sure, call the manufacturer. The dealer should also have the color brochures supplied by the manufacturers they're like 4-6 pages that you can take home to compare models and help you decide. The equipment should have a USA WARRANTY and not should NOT BE "GREY MARKET"!
Joe Prete
reply to this commentOne other thing I should tell you. When I mention camera shops, you should always make sure that the camera shop is an AUTHORIZED DEALER for the brand that you decide to buy. If you're not sure, call the manufacturer. The dealer should also have the color brochures supplied by the manufacturers they're like 4-6 pages that you can take home to compare models and help you decide. The equipment should have a USA WARRANTY and not should NOT BE "GREY MARKET"!
Joe Prete
(Leo — 02/19/2011)
I have carried my 6-year old Nikon Coolpix E8800 over 30 countries, and am looking for a replacement - with a wider wide angle, a little more tele, and little more resolution - but with all the features of the 8800.
I gave up the problems of traveling with extra lens cameras (SLRS) years ago.
Is the P500 the camera I have been waiting for to replace the Nikon Coolpix E8800? The 8800 is phantastic, with metal body,10x zoom, optical stabilization, built-in remote control, tilting LCD monitor, viewfinder, 58mm threaded lens filters,
raw, jpg, manual, etc.?
reply to this commentI gave up the problems of traveling with extra lens cameras (SLRS) years ago.
Is the P500 the camera I have been waiting for to replace the Nikon Coolpix E8800? The 8800 is phantastic, with metal body,10x zoom, optical stabilization, built-in remote control, tilting LCD monitor, viewfinder, 58mm threaded lens filters,
raw, jpg, manual, etc.?
Joe Prete (02/21/2011)
Leo, I think I remember the E8800. That's several years old now right? I think I wanted that one, but it was always on backorder. That usually means it was a good one. But the age must make it an unfair comparison. I want to see about the slow lens on the P500. Maybe with the VR it won't be a problem at all, but with that zoom I start to think about time exposures on a tripod, which seems to defeat the purpose. And on the wide angle end, if the pop up isn't enough, I would have to use slave flash because there's no hot shoe. Are you looking at any of the others? some due out March and April - if they're on time. The DMC-FZ100 is still hard to find in stock. Maybe the P500 will be a winner too. I hope so!
Joe Prete
reply to this commentJoe Prete
(Liam McCabe — 02/28/2011)
Joe Prete, you're making my job easy! Thanks for chiming in with all your comments, very helpful and much appreciated -- always good to get a different perspective on these pages.
reply to this comment (Joe Prete — 03/01/2011)
Liam, I'm glad to help where I can. You deserve a lot of credit for what you do! I heard on one of the news programs the other day how the internet and sites like yours have become "The New Tech Support". Feel free to email me if it gets a little too busy for you, I'll help wherever I can. (and conversely, If you need me to back off a little. I won't be offended) I guess you know, I'm from the old school, always with a darkroom somewhere in the house - b&w & color, and now on the computer. It's been close to 40 years for me now. Keep up the good work, a lot of people are depending on you now! Thanks,
Joe Prete
reply to this commentJoe Prete
(sanjay — 03/06/2011)
actual price of nikon coolpix P500 in dehradun,india
reply to this comment (03/09/2011)
P500 RELEASED! I got an email at 10:06 PM on March 8th From a larger New York City store that the P500 is now available. For everyone who likes to be the first it's GO time. Good Luck!
Joe Prete
reply to this commentJoe Prete
sukrit (03/09/2011)
can somebody tell me the date when P500 is getting launched in India?
reply to this comment (03/12/2011)
Sukrit,
The P500 is available right on the NIKON STORE. Just go to Nikon.com and look at the map and choose your area. I got so used to typing Nikonusa.com that I forgot the home page where you choose your location. The price is the same, as they set the same price for the dealers. They even have a few DSLR'S along with their instructional video's, books, logo items etc. By the way, this is happening with most of the dealers, selling certain items themselves and cutting out the middle man (the dealers). In your case it's a + Let us know what happens.
Good Luck Sukrit
** LET'S ALL SAY A PRAYER FOR JAPAN** camera's and electronics don't seem too important right now. ..... Joe Prete
reply to this commentThe P500 is available right on the NIKON STORE. Just go to Nikon.com and look at the map and choose your area. I got so used to typing Nikonusa.com that I forgot the home page where you choose your location. The price is the same, as they set the same price for the dealers. They even have a few DSLR'S along with their instructional video's, books, logo items etc. By the way, this is happening with most of the dealers, selling certain items themselves and cutting out the middle man (the dealers). In your case it's a + Let us know what happens.
Good Luck Sukrit
** LET'S ALL SAY A PRAYER FOR JAPAN** camera's and electronics don't seem too important right now. ..... Joe Prete
(Kunal S — 03/23/2011)
The Nikon P500 is launched in Mumbai, India... u could get it for around Rs. 20,500..
reply to this comment (Liam McCabe — 03/10/2011)
The first impressions I've read at the DPReview boards are generally positive. Typical superoom issues like soft corners, but overall the test shots look nice and sharp even at full telephoto, and users seem to be happy with the performance. We shall see how this plays out, and will hopefully have a full review of our own.
reply to this comment (Kunal S — 03/11/2011)
Hey Liam and Joe,
Thanks so much for all the inputs. it was all really helpful. U guys are like a guiding light for us not-so-tech-savvies...
However, with the D500 on verge of release, i have decided to wait and then finalise between a Nikon D500/ Panasonic DMC-FZ100/ Canon SX 30ix. However, i am eagerly waiting for your review on the D500. Also would really appreciate if you guys can give a brief overall comparisons between the above 3 models as i guess they are the hottest super zoomers currently in the market.
Thanks once again for your support....
rgds, Kunal
reply to this commentThanks so much for all the inputs. it was all really helpful. U guys are like a guiding light for us not-so-tech-savvies...
However, with the D500 on verge of release, i have decided to wait and then finalise between a Nikon D500/ Panasonic DMC-FZ100/ Canon SX 30ix. However, i am eagerly waiting for your review on the D500. Also would really appreciate if you guys can give a brief overall comparisons between the above 3 models as i guess they are the hottest super zoomers currently in the market.
Thanks once again for your support....
rgds, Kunal
( — 03/11/2011)
Why are you leaving out the Finepix HS20 EXR? You can't wait until May? Check the specs and the overall size!
Is the power zoom the reason? Don't forget the power that it will use. The Fuji runs on AA's
reply to this commentIs the power zoom the reason? Don't forget the power that it will use. The Fuji runs on AA's
(03/12/2011)
It's not just the power zoom, there are many other things to consider. They are all good cameras, but like I said, (see my unmarked text above) AA batteries vs a Nikon battery, 20-30 dollar difference. Nikon has the zoom switch, but selecting it may jar the camera. Fuji has the barrel zoom, which if used right can be very smooth. The barrel also is marked on top so you can see how far you're zoomed out. I don't think Canon or Panasonic need to update theirs yet. The Nikon does cost less, but it has no hot shoe. The FUJIFILM HS20 EXR was set for March, then April and now They tell me their site will be updated to read mid May. So if Time is a consideration, then you have your answer. If battery price (over three or so years) then look at AA. If you need more flash, the hot shoe is on the Fuji. The Fuji will tower over, and side to side over the Nikon. You can hold it steady with two hands. How good are you with compact cameras in one hand. You can fire off still's while your filming for Youtube. The resale on these things are terrible, so make a careful choice. For my hands the wider body is better, but for me it's just another toy.(sorry) One of you wrote D500 by mistake. It's P500. I'm still waiting to hear from a friend in India, I didn't forget. Talk to you guys soon. ..... Joe Prete
reply to this comment (03/12/2011)
Sukrit,
The P500 is available right on the NIKON STORE. Just go to Nikon.com and look at the map and choose your area. I got so used to typing Nikonusa.com that I forgot the home page where you choose your location. The price is the same, as they set the same price for the dealers. They even have a few DSLR'S along with their instructional video's, books, logo items etc. By the way, this is happening with most of the dealers, selling certain items themselves and cutting out the middle man (the dealers). In your case it's a + Let us know what happens.
Good Luck Sukrit
** LET'S ALL SAY A PRAYER FOR JAPAN** camera's and electronics don't seem too important right now. ..... Joe Prete
reply to this commentThe P500 is available right on the NIKON STORE. Just go to Nikon.com and look at the map and choose your area. I got so used to typing Nikonusa.com that I forgot the home page where you choose your location. The price is the same, as they set the same price for the dealers. They even have a few DSLR'S along with their instructional video's, books, logo items etc. By the way, this is happening with most of the dealers, selling certain items themselves and cutting out the middle man (the dealers). In your case it's a + Let us know what happens.
Good Luck Sukrit
** LET'S ALL SAY A PRAYER FOR JAPAN** camera's and electronics don't seem too important right now. ..... Joe Prete
(03/13/2011)
JOE PRETE 3/13/11 First let me say that they are now asking for donations for JAPAN. Like I said, they should have OUR PRAYERS, it's much worse than what we first heard. Give what you can, even a little bit, from each of us will help. Don't forget We are a group. That said, you also need to *BEWARE OF THE SCAMS. TRUST THE RED CROSS & WHAT OUR PRESIDENT AND GOVERNMENT DEEM TO BE SAFE* A bit of photo info I wanted to pass on for those that don't know. On ITUNES, there are many podcasts from the manufacturers, dealers and just some people in the know. Originally, they were all free, but there are still very many that are free and informative, as you can see the products being tested and what should be included in the box. You don't need an IPOD or mp3 to play podcasts, you can join for free PC OR MAC, subscribe to what you like and watch/listen on your computer, Netbook or Smartphone without spending a dime. I think these bridge cameras are the fastest growing segment of the industry right now due to the advancements in technology. Remember, though, the best camera is the one you have with you. I was amazed to see the photos and videos documenting the tragedy in JAPAN. I also wanted to mention, reading through some of the remarks, some of you seem to be getting a little rough on Liam and the staff. They are doing a great job considering the questions put to them, A doctor works on two models, male and female. anyone want to guess how many cameras models there are? I don't think so. Read your manuals over again and go out and take some pictures. You don't have to be Irish to take pictures of the ST. Patrick's day parade! It's a photo op. cover it, and you'll gain some more experience. Charge up your batteries (+extra's) format your cards and go out and shoot some photo's. And most likely whatever camera you have, it will probably say on it "MADE IN JAPAN" ......
JOE PRETE 3/13/11
reply to this commentJOE PRETE 3/13/11
Erin Lynch (03/21/2011)
panasonic lumic fz100 or Nikon P500 on a safari??
reply to this comment (Liam McCabe — 03/21/2011)
The P500 just came out and there are limited reviews so far, can't say for sure. The feedback about the P500 until now is generally positive, as is the feedback about the FZ100. There are plenty of folks that hate the FZ100, as I'm sure there will be with the P500 as well -- just remember you're buying a point-and-shoot with a huge lens, not a mini-dSLR.
Anyhow, back to your question -- how much zoom do you want? A lot, or a whole lot? That's the most obvious difference on paper.
reply to this commentAnyhow, back to your question -- how much zoom do you want? A lot, or a whole lot? That's the most obvious difference on paper.
Erin Lynch (03/25/2011)
OK, I have decide to buy the Nikon p500. Any recommendations as to which web site is best for delivery, returns warranty ect. I live in Fresno Ca. and it is not available in any of our Best Buys, or camera stores Thank you!
reply to this comment (Liam McCabe — 03/29/2011)
I think you'll be happy with it -- we have a number of merchant listings above, and we've included user ratings next to the merchant name. Most major ones have 4+ ratings, so you'll probably be good to go. Feel free to poke around though.
reply to this comment (03/24/2011)
Joe Prete 3/23/11
Sounds like liam covered this pretty well Erin, I just wanted to add that if you're worried about the settings on a dslr, I think they all have Auto settings, so you wouldn't have much to learn.The camera can do the "thinking" for you until you learn how to set it. The P500 will need extra batteries for sure, that was in the specs, I just wanted to give you a little more info, a safari doesn't sound like you would be doing again soon. But the zoom IS a big part of this. Isn't there someone you know, who can show you? How about the local camera club? Aside from the batteries, bring enough memory cards and something to store them in. Good Luck!
Joe Prete
reply to this commentSounds like liam covered this pretty well Erin, I just wanted to add that if you're worried about the settings on a dslr, I think they all have Auto settings, so you wouldn't have much to learn.The camera can do the "thinking" for you until you learn how to set it. The P500 will need extra batteries for sure, that was in the specs, I just wanted to give you a little more info, a safari doesn't sound like you would be doing again soon. But the zoom IS a big part of this. Isn't there someone you know, who can show you? How about the local camera club? Aside from the batteries, bring enough memory cards and something to store them in. Good Luck!
Joe Prete
(Patty Jones — 03/26/2011)
Can anyone help me pick between the Canon SX30IS or the Nikon P500? I take Eagle and wildlife pictures, so a long zoom and clarity is the most important factors to me. I now have a Kodak 26 optical zoom, I like it, but you know how it goes, we're always wanting closer pictures, can anyone help me decide which one?
reply to this comment (Liam McCabe — 03/28/2011)
Short answer: the P500 is brand new so folks are still "feeling it out," but all the shots and feedback I've seen and read so far make it seem like the P500 is a better camera in many ways. SX30 gets flack for soft pictures.
reply to this comment (Gaurav Beri — 03/27/2011)
guys i just bought this camera a week back from New Delhi n i'm in luv wit it, the 36 X zoom gives a waow experience, the photo quality is awesome ....the HD video recording is at its best.... the tilted screen is an add on... this is a gr8 product from Nikon.
reply to this comment (04/08/2011)
(Joe Prete -4/6/11)
I heard the sensor in the P500 is the new Sony sensor. The camera has been available, I've heard very few comments so far, is any one able to make any comments yet? We know it's good, but how good from a users perspective? People are waiting to hear some feedback. If any one can, please let us know.
Thanks guys ...... Joe Prete
reply to this commentI heard the sensor in the P500 is the new Sony sensor. The camera has been available, I've heard very few comments so far, is any one able to make any comments yet? We know it's good, but how good from a users perspective? People are waiting to hear some feedback. If any one can, please let us know.
Thanks guys ...... Joe Prete
(Liam McCabe — 04/13/2011)
The sensor might be made by Sony (most sensors are -- either them or Samsung) but I don't think Sony's used it in any of their fixed-lens models. Last year's batch used 10 mp CMOS, this year's uses 16 mp CMOS and this is a 12 mp version.
Also curious to hear more feedback. There's a fair amount of chatter over at the dpreview.com boards now. Always a bunch of trolls on those boards though -- folks with lots of unrealistic expectations for what a camera like this can/should do.
reply to this commentAlso curious to hear more feedback. There's a fair amount of chatter over at the dpreview.com boards now. Always a bunch of trolls on those boards though -- folks with lots of unrealistic expectations for what a camera like this can/should do.
netoche (03/29/2011)
acabo de recibir la p500 y definitivamente es de las mejores su alta calidad es impresionante en fotografia y video y el superzoom definitivamente sensacional se las recomienndo saludos desde argentina
reply to this comment (Liam McCabe — 03/29/2011)
I understood enough of that to know that this commenter thinks this camera is sensational.
reply to this commentErin (04/10/2011)
I just got the P500 and I am enjoying it. The battery life is NOT good at all. Any ideas as to what I need to do for extra batteries, I am going on a safari in 2 months and will not have access to re charging??
reply to this comment (Liam McCabe — 04/11/2011)
I'd say buy an extra battery or two to keep charged when you can (it's the Nikon EN-EL5 battery). Looks like it's only $15 from some retailers, not bad at all. As for re-charging -- a quick google search for "nikon battery solar charger" turned up some interesting results. Poke around a bit -- you might be able to use the sun to re-charge your batteries.
reply to this commentJOE PRETE (04/14/2011)
Hi Erin,
There's probably other brands of that battery, but I would stay with Nikon brand just in case! Also, there shouldn't be any "memory" effect but it's a good idea to top off your batteries before use and then, run them down most of the way before swapping them out. The only instance you should change them early is when your subject is "on deck" or just ready to perform. Keep your fresh batteries in the right pocket and the used ones in the left, which ever storage system you use, make it consistent so you never make a mistake and miss the shot. Happy Shooting!
Joe Prete
reply to this commentThere's probably other brands of that battery, but I would stay with Nikon brand just in case! Also, there shouldn't be any "memory" effect but it's a good idea to top off your batteries before use and then, run them down most of the way before swapping them out. The only instance you should change them early is when your subject is "on deck" or just ready to perform. Keep your fresh batteries in the right pocket and the used ones in the left, which ever storage system you use, make it consistent so you never make a mistake and miss the shot. Happy Shooting!
Joe Prete
Nikon Coolpix P500 Reviews
Nikon Coolpix P500 Reviews by Digital Camera-HQ Users
- 5.0 out of 5
Amazed
(Lim — 03/14/2011)
Just got the P500 camera yesterday from a 4 days IT Show 2011 in Singapore. Tried taking a shot at The Singapore Flyer with the 36x optical zoom from my home at 30th level and I was like wow... Great price at SG$699 bundled with a Nikon Silk Stand, 2x 8GB SDcard, USB Card Reader, Screen Protector, Camera Case, Spare Lit Battery.
