By design_prof (New York, NY USA)

I just purchased this camera after owning a few compact cameras and DSLR’s. So far the camera is a gem. Small but easy to grasp, simple and fast to use, change settings, and above all, I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the image quality, color rendition, and image stabilization features. The optical and digital zoom combined with these features achieved sharp results.

The software that knits together panorama intended shots (using the panorama scene feature) is better than most with very little distoration.

A single 2 Gig SD card represents 500 best quality and size photos on this camera even at 8.1 megapixels.

The noise levels above 200 iso is diminished by the higher megapixels and NR builtin the camera.

This is a great travel camera given its wide angle for shooting buildings, landscapes, panoramas and people.

I highly recommend this camera.

Cons: No raw image support and movies are not highly compressed and use up the memory quickly.

By J. Brow “full-spectrum reader” (Seattle, WA USA)

I gave away my Nikon Coolpix 3200 and waited awhile before purchasing another Nikon. At the store I didn’t go for the most expensive Nikon Coolpix–just one that was recommended for low light shooting. I’m moderately familiar with photography so I do not mind experimenting.This camera is very nice! The many types of programmed settings for indoors and low light are very handy. Usually when I want to take a great photo I will fire off several shots (I have two 2 Gb memory cartridges) using a variety of settings until I get close enough. The built-in retouching functions (D-lighting) are nice and work well. When I’m done I download onto my computer and perhaps do some contrast adjustment and cropping. The results are great.

Please, PLEASE read the manual. It will definitely help anyone to use this camera to its fullest potential. I’ve ordered the AC adapter and charger/batteries to add to my tripod (already own). I also recommend purchasing a tripod; with the camera’s timer you can take nice shots even in indoors and low light.

None of my pictures have turned out grainy (yet), and if they ever do I check the settings. Photography is not idiot-proof, you must experiment! I’d recommend only using point-and-shoot settings for daylight/outdoors. Oh, and take multiple shots of a subject, there is enough memory in the camera to do this. Back in the old 35mm film days pro photographers would take rolls and rolls of pictures just to get that ONE great picture. Try the same approach and do not be satisfied with just one shot. This camera will let you do this easily.

If I had a friend who had at some prior knowledge of taking photos I’d recommend it. If you are just a beginning picture-taker, look elsewhere.

Anyone who takes their time to learn all the ins and outs of this camera will be rewarded with a fine product for many months and years to come.

• Read More About Nikon Coolpix P50

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