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Picture Quality / Size Options (7.0)
The 6-megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 has several image size options and an editing feature in the playback mode that creates more email-friendly-sized pictures. The following options are available: High (2816 x 2112), Normal (2816 x 2112), Normal (2048 x 1536), PC (1024 x 768), and TV (640 x 480). All of the pictures are compressed JPEG files, but only the top resolution has control over the compression: High or Normal. In the playback mode, pictures can be resized to 640 x 480, 320 x 240, or 160 x 120 pixels. The top resolution is theoretically good enough to make a smooth 8 x 10-inch print (although Nikon claims it can print up to 16 x 20 inches), but check the Testing/Performance section of this review to verify the S5’s actual resolution quality.
Picture Effects Mode (7.0)
 There aren’t many picture effects on this digital camera; it certainly isn’t like the Canon PowerShots, which have vast numbers of color modes. Still, there is a selection of color filters on the S5, including Standard, Vivid, Black & White, Sepia, and Cyanotype. There are live views of these color effects, but they are hard to see because the enlarged text blocks the view. The color effects are accessible only while recording and not at all in playback. The vivid color mode enhances the saturation, while the sepia looked a little too pink and the cyanotype looked an eerie blue. In the playback mode, only one picture effect can be applied: D-lighting compensation. This is done by pushing the one-touch portrait button and viewing the preview next to the original file. Users then confirm that they want the enhanced version to save the D-lit picture. Overall, this isn’t one of the S5’s best attributes, but there is a small selection for point-and-shooters who like to experiment with color.
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