The Coolpix S3100 is a 14-megapixel camera with 5x optical zoom and has a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 26mm-130mm. It has a 2.6-inch LCD (230,000 pixels).
Because of its small size, we consider this model a subcompact.
The Coolpix S3100 stores photos and video on SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and has 45MB of in-board storage. It captures images as JPG files at a top resolution of 4320 x 3240 and HD-resolution video as AVI files at a top resolution of 1280 x 720.
Like most digital cameras, this model comes with a proprietary rechargeable battery.
The image stabilization system for this camera is electronic.
The Coolpix S3100 measures 3.7 inches wide by 2.4 inches high by 0.7 inches deep, and weighs 4 ounces (with battery, memory card, and strap).
About This Brand
Nikon has a fairly extensive line of point-and-shoot models, known as Coolpix cameras. Its subcompacts, compacts, and super zooms are divided into three series—the budget L, step-up S, and high-end P series. Nikon also has an innovative S series camera that includes a built-in projector that lets you beam images or video clips onto any surface. Like Canon's SLR lineup, Nikon's D series offers cameras for every SLR user and budget and a wide range of lenses. High-end SLRs include large, full-frame sensors, which offer better quality in low light.
Optical zoom Optical zoom is the maximum magnifcation of the lens.
Optical zoom
5
Manual controls Some cameras allow the user to set the aperture (f-stop), shutter speed, or (usually) both. This feature is used to override the automatic exposure settings when more control is needed. During a sporting event for example, you may want to use a high shutter speed to freeze the action. Or, you may want to use a low shutter speed to blur moving objects (like a waterfall) while keeping stationary objects sharp. Using shallow depths of field can be used to blur the background of photos while keeping the foreground in focus. Typically up/down arrow keys are used to change settings displayed on the LCD or in the viewfinder. These controls are not as easy to use as on conventional film cameras.
Manual controls
No
LCD size (in.) Digital cameras have a small liquid-crystal display (LCD) screen on the back so you can see the images and decide which to keep. You can also use the LCD to help frame photos, but that's a sure way to run down the battery in a hurry. Most LCD screens are too dim for viewing clearly in sunlight. Many cameras also use the screen for displaying menus and camera settings. It is desirable to have both an LCD display and a viewfinder with an eyepiece.
LCD size (in.)
2.6
Touch screen Touch screen indicates touch capability on the LCD.
Touch screen
No
Viewfinder Found on virtually all models, this optical device allows you to look through an eyepiece to frame the subject before taking a picture. Not to be confused with the LCD image display found on the back of the camera, which is mainly to view photos you've already taken.
After years of being the one to take vacation pictures I encouraged my wife to take some of her own. We tried an older camera and another cheap digital camera for her. This last trip to St. Croix, I got her the Nikon. With a little instruction on how to get the camera to focus she took some wonderful shots. Some were indoors, some at the beach, in the hills and some portraits. I charged the battery before we left home and didn't recharge for 11 days after about 50 pictures which was alot for her.
How long have you owned it:
One-to-three months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By
Harley
from
New Brunswick, Canada
(4 of 4 customers found this review helpful)
5.0
Excellent little camera
10/22/2011
Pros
Easy To Use
Good Image Quality
Great Zoom
Nice Body Color
Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
Family Photos
Indoors/Low Light
Landscape/Scenery
Travel
Video
Comment:
I bought this camera because of it's small size and the Nikon name. I was pleasantly surprised with the dedicated video button. This camera is easy to use and has many options. Just point and shoot for great photos. I also like the fact that the battery can be charged while in the camera, no need to take it out. I am very happy with my purchase and would buy it again.
How long have you owned it:
One-to-three months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By
Sonya
from
Norman, OK
(7 of 7 customers found this review helpful)
4.0
Great camera for not so much money
7/5/2011
Pros
Easy To Use
Fast/accurate auto-focus
Good Image Quality
Good Image Stabilization
Good in Low Light
Great Zoom
Large Clear LCD
Nice Body Color
Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
Family Photos
Indoors/Low Light
Travel
Comment:
We bought this camera to take pictures of our granddaughter and dog. For the 1st time in 25 years my husband can take a clear picture with his shakey hands. Nice to finally see an unblurry picture that he took. So far I haven't found a thing I don't like about it. It's small enough to stick in a pocket.
3 people have reviewed this model.
Optical zoom
