Nikon Coolpix P5000

Picture Quality / Size Options (7.5)
The 10-megapixel CCD measures 1/1.8 inches, which is a typical size for that amount of resolution. Nikon’s website claims that the P5000 can print pictures up to 20 x 30 inches; check the performance section of this review to see how the 10-megapixel resolution really pans out in prints. Images can be captured as JPEG files in the following resolutions: 3648 x 2736, 2592 x 1944, 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, 1280 x 960, 1024 x 768, and 640 x 480. There is also a 3:2-formatted option that snaps 3648 x 2432 pixels and a widescreen-optimized resolution of 3584 x 2016 pixels. Pictures can be resized in the playback menu to 640 x 480, 320 x 240, and 160 x 120 pixels: these make transferring and e-mailing a faster process. Of note is the ISO 3200 setting that trims the image size to 5 megapixels when in use. All other modes and settings can operate in full resolution though. Many serious photographers considering this camera may wonder if the P5000 can shoot in RAW format. No, it can not and it’s an unfortunate omission.

Picture Effects Mode (7.5)
The P5000 has a handful of picture effects grouped under the Optimize Image portion of the recording menu. Normal, Softer, Vivid, More Vivid, Portrait, Custom, and Black-and-White settings are available. However, the lack of a live preview makes it difficult to choose a proper setting because it’s hard to how the final image will look. The custom image option allows users to change the sharpness, saturation, and contrast all with auto or +/- 2 scales in full steps.

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