Digital Camera News

February 19, 2007

Nikon Expands P-Series with P5000

February 19, 2007 – Commemorating the 10th anniversary of Coolpix cameras, Nikon launched a new spring product line that includes the Coolpix P5000. The 10-megapixel camera comes with a new processing engine, new mode dial, and enhanced menu system. The P5000 will retail for $399.95 when it debuts next month.

"The Coolpix P5000 was designed for the photographer who enjoys a high level of control, advanced imaging technologies, and the ability to take creative control of their photography," said Nikon Coolpix general manager for Marketing Bill Giordano in a company press release today.

Adding to the existing P-series line, "P" standing for "Performance," this 10- megapixel P5000 totes a higher megapixel count over its predecessor, the 8.1-megapixel Coolpix P3 and P4. The P5000 borrows the 3.5x Nikkor optical zoom lens from the older models, but the new camera adds a higher resolution 230,000 pixel, 2.5-inch LCD screen with anti-reflective coating for viewing in bright sunlight. Users also have the option to capture images using the LCD or through a new optical viewfinder.

The P5000 does not include Wi-Fi capabilities like the P3, but the Nikon P5000 does boast a new processing engine that promises improved signal-to-noise ratio for lower noise in high ISO settings, according to the release.

The camera is capable of automatic and manual modes that users can access through a new mode dial with an anti-shake mode, that activates Optical VR Image Stabilization, High ISO of up to 3200 ISO, and Best Shot Selector. The P5000 has 16 scene modes, 7 movie modes, an anti-shake mode, and high ISO mode.

Another new feature on the P5000 is the new menu system, a graphic-based interface that includes help dialogs. Through the menu, users can activate Nikon’s standard features called "image innovations" of face-priority AF, in-camera red-eye correction, and D-lighting.

"The P5000 will be compatible with system-expanding accessories that will allow photographers take their creativity and image to new heights," said Giordano. This camera supports Nikon add-on accessory lenses for an expanded focal range; users can opt to purchase the additional Wide-angle lens Converter WC-E67 for 24mm shooting or the 378mm Telephoto Converter lens, the TC-E3ED. The camera comes with a built-in hot shoe for external flashes. The camera accepts SD and SDHC memory and Li-ion batteries.

Key Features:
10-megapixel count
3.5x Nikkor optical zoom
New processing engine
New mode dial with Anti-shake mode
Optical VR Image Stabilization
Face-priority AF
New Menu system
Optical Viewfinder
Compatibility with lens converters

Spec Sheet

- Nikon Coolpix P5000