A Nikon for the Masses

Nikons have a reputation as cameras for the hard-core photographer, but the company's new Coolpix models are targeted at the neophyte. I looked at a preproduction version of the $350 Coolpix 3100, a small, light, and nicely designed 3.2-megapixel camera. It comes with an astounding 14 scene modes, plus something new to Nikon cameras: settings that help novices compose their shots.

Most digital cameras include a few scene modes that let snapshot photographers quickly fine-tune the camera's exposure settings for different types of shots. Picking sports mode, for example, asks the camera to use faster shutter speeds, while choosing portrait mode on a sunny day asks the camera to use the fill-flash function. On the 3100, Nikon placed the four most commonly used scene modes--portrait, landscape, sports, and night portrait--on a dial; the remainder are found in the camera's menus.

Each of the four primary scene modes has several assist modes--think of them as built-in training wheels for proper composition. The assist modes are helpful, but using them takes a bit too long for quick snapshots.

Don't assume that this camera is strictly for beginners. Though the 3100 has few advanced features and takes only silent video, it does include white-balance calibration and in-camera image cropping. In addition, the Coolpix 3100 feels solid in your hand, and its zoom buttons are large and easily worked. Most important, it takes pleasing shots.

SUMMARY

Nikon Coolpix 3100 (Preproduction unit, not rated) Moderately priced, pocketable, light, and especially easy to use. Price when tested: $350 Current prices, if available.