Prior Nikon Cameras owned and used by reviewer:Nikon FE2 (1), Nikon F3 (4), Nikon F5 (2)Coolpix 5700 (first Digital), Nikon D70 (2), Nikon D300 (2), Coolpix S210I have been using the above listed Nikon products for about 30 years from film to digital; the parenthesis denotes quantity along with a full array of lens, from manual to autofocus.Subject of review:Coolpix P7000Usage:General usage including spot news, emergency situations, Educational/legal tool, posed vehicle/ fire apparatus photos in less than pristine weather conditions.(So far, in 20 degree temps in winter conditions, has preformed admiralty with reasonable precautions)Sadly the Coolpix 5700 was my first digital camera and only served to re-enforce my love of film. It was a real clunker. Finally, I jumped with both feet, after excellent reviews, into the digital age with the D70s, then up to the D300s, my present workhorses for serious jobs/projects.Like everyone, you dream of a "Kick-around" camera to have when just doing daily chores or off relaxing, but not wanting to haul the heavy artillery. Hence the purchase of the Coolpix S210, it was ok but just barely.So, after reading the reviews, I was a little hesitant to purchase, (especially touch unseen over the internet) the Coolpix P7000.So now comes the Coolpix P7000 and in getting a good deal over the internet for under $400.00 and an extra battery for $ 27.00, I figured, why not.I have had it for a week and used it multiple times in a series of field tests and situations, all, I am pleased to say, with excellent results.First, it is a solid feeling camera with the exception of the lens ring which is a feature I would rather do without, not wanting to compromise the integrity of the inner workings in a harsh work environment. If you are a Nikon user, you will be almost totally up to speed with this camera in a very short time, as most features follow the other Nikon cameras. The spin dial on the right side back is a new feature that I need to get used to it can go where you don't want to go.A lot has been said regarding the time for saving the image to the disc, I found in the non Raw mode, with the dial on any other setting but AUTO, and in the menu, set to continuous, this camera works fine on multiple shots in a burst up to 45 seconds.Low light shots inside or on the street with city lighting has gotten interesting and impressive results. The pop up flash is useless outside and after about 12 feet inside, but put a Nikon Speed light SB-800 on top and "Oh, Man", the results spank inside and outside!The HD movie setting seems to be decent for this camera although in low light situations are lacking but then see my disclaimer.The Macro is excellent, with results bordering on spectacular but suggest that it be used in manual mode in order to have full control of the depth of field issue.The telephoto lens is impressive during daylight usage but had minor issues in low light. I personally prefer not extending the telephoto lens into the digital Interpolation. The trade off isn't worth it in my opinion, with that said, it does have quite a reach for a point and shot format camera.The viewfinder is adequate, if you use it at all. First, it does cover the monitor, in other words, what you see in the viewfinder is what you see on the monitor. The back piece is like using a pinhole camera, if you ever made one, or using a pinhole rear sight on a 22.cal rifle. You have to get your eye right up to it and that usually means contact between the monitor and your nose!The monitor is large and generous in viewing, although bright sunlight can be an issue. I wish there was some type of protection on the screen, but an after product static film should help especially if the camera is keep in a coat pocket ( like I do) or cargo pocket in the Summer.I wish they would have PDF file of the manual which would make for a better search experience.The battery charger with a slide out plug makes for a great addition, no cords! Full charge is about a one and a half hour.Nikon ViewNX2 software: personally I have always found Nikon Software sadly lacking to the point where I don't even use it relying on other software to complete my photofinishing/ printing.I have to add a disclaimer, many reviews I read were comparing this camera with higher end products, I will say here that this is a FOUR hundred dollar camera, not a thousand dollar camera so for the money, it is a lot of bang for the buck, but at the end of the day, it is a FOUR hundred dollar camera.Price on Amazon was great and shipping cheap and fast, received it in three days.I would highly recommend this camera as long as you understand; it's a four hundred dollar camera.
