Segmented digital cameras that allow the lens to swivel separately from the body have always been able to capture the attention of customers. Swiveling lens digital cameras look cool and allow you to easily make odd-angle shots. Nikon was among the first companies to create a swiveling lens camera in the late 1990s, and it continues that tradition with the new Coolpix S10 model. Because of the swiveling capabilities, the Coolpix S10 carries a higher price tag than most digital cameras with similar specifications, but the Coolpix S10 is a pretty powerful model.

This model's 10X optical zoom lens is impressive. Because the swiveling camera body can leave you holding this model in some awkward positions, it is especially important for the Coolpix S10 to carry good image-stabilization technology, and Nikon has included its own impressive hardware-based Vibration Reduction (VR) technology. You will rarely have a blurry photo caused by camera shake with the Coolpix S10, even when the 10X zoom lens is fully extended.

The Coolpix S10 offers 6.0 megapixels of resolution, which is plenty for high-quality prints of 8x10 inches. You will find quite a few digital cameras in this price range with more resolution, but 6.0 megapixels is as much resolution as most consumer-level photographers will ever need. Photo quality is outstanding outdoors and is more than adequate in low-lighting conditions, thanks in part to the VR.

The Coolpix S10's 2.5-inch LCD is bright and sharp in all lighting conditions. You have to use the LCD to frame photos, as there is no optical viewfinder. Response times for the Coolpix S10 are very good. You can shoot your first photo about 2 seconds after pressing the power button. Shutter lag can be a problem with long zoom lenses, and this model will have occasional shutter delays ranging from 0.5 to 1 second. Shot-to-shot delays with the flash never exceed 3 seconds, which is a very good measurement. However, shot-to-shot delays without the flash typically fall in the 1 to 1.5 second range, which is longer than we'd like to see.

This model includes 16MB of internal memory, which is handy, but you will need to purchase a memory card immediately. We'd also recommend purchasing a second rechargeable battery with the Coolpix S10 because its battery life is below average. You'll need to include costs for a battery and a memory card with your initial cost estimates for this model.

The Coolpix S10 measures only 1.6 inches in thickness when not in use, and it will fit in a large pocket. It is smaller than average for a 10X zoom camera. When you rotate the lens to 90 degrees of the body, the unit measures about 2.5 inches in thickness. Overall, the Coolpix S10 is a decent model that has some cool features. Shooting with the rotating lens will take some practice, but if you're someone who likes shooting self-portraits and other odd-angle shots, the Coolpix S10 will deliver. The starting price for this model is a little high, but it carries enough above-average features to make it a very good choice.


Pros: Swivel lens allows odd-angle shots, good image quality, 10X optical zoom lens, good image stabilization, unique-looking camera
Cons: Initial cost is a little high, using a swivel camera takes some practice, shutter lag and shot-to-shot delays can be problematic

Warranty
1 year, limited