Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP Compact Digital Camera
| May 9, 2012 | Posted by admin under Nikon |
Boasting a full 42x optical zoom lens, this 16.1-MP model with an electronic viewfinder and vari-angle 3-inch (921,000-dot) LCD offers a full range of modes, functions, overrides and special effects options.
Extras include built-in GPS, Scene modes that combine multiple photos for superior high-ISO quality, in-camera HDR and a 7-fps framing rate at full resolution.
Based on the full specs, the P510 should be competitive with some DSLRs in many respects.
Pros
- 24-1000 mm zoom with VR stabilizer
- 4 picture-style modes with overrides
- Many DSLR-style features
- Many external controls
- Full HD video with stereo sound
- Tilting high-res LCD screen
- Fast AF with many modes
- Fast framing rate
Cons
- Somewhat large, though smaller than expected
- The zoom is slow if you’re extending it the full range and it takes a few seconds to focus
- Battery life is not that good – would definitely recommend getting a back up!
Sample Photos
Video Review
Excellent Features, low price
Manufacturer’s Product Description
Every image and Full HD (1080p) movie dazzles when produced by the advanced 16.1 MP CMOS sensor.
Stills and movies up to 42x zoom
With a 42x optical Zoom-NIKKOR ED glass lens, an incredible world of optical power and versatility awaits you. Shoot from 24mm wide-angle then zoom to an amazing 1,000mm and capture distant images. In addition, its close-up macro mode is incredible, allowing you to focus as close as 0.4 inches (1cm).
The optical Vibration Reduction system minimizes the chance of blur while you take both photos and movies and the side zoom control provides easy access to the P510′s powerful zoom capabilities.
16.1 megapixel CMOS processing power
A 16.1 MP CMOS sensor expertly manages high-resolution imagery, delivering exceptional quality in any environment. Even when shooting in low light, your photos and movies will look great. The backside illuminated CMOS technology increases the flow of light to the CMOS sensor’s surface, thereby yielding improved quality and minimum image noise.
High-speed continuous shooting
Don’t let a slow performing camera allow you to miss a single moment! Enjoy non-stop shooting with the P510′s incredibly fast and responsive performance – up to 5 shots in approximately one second. So whether you’re at a sporting event where the action never stops or are simply hoping to capture those fleeting smiles, the P510 delivers all the action with pinpoint accuracy.
Built-in GPS and geotagging features
A long way from home? Switch on the built-in GPS feature and as you shoot, your files are geotagged and provide a visual travelogue that pinpoints latitude and longitude. Geotagged photo and movie files integrate with Nikon’s my Picturetown photo sharing site, Google Earth and Nikon View NX2 software. Access all the P510 has to offer on its stunningly vivid, ultra-high-resolution 3-inch LCD monitor.
Full HD (1080p) movies with stereo sound
Capture those once in a lifetime moments with vibrant Full HD (1080p) movies. With a single touch of the button, record movies using continuous AF and stereo sound. Choose from special effects such as High Contrast Monochrome or Nostalgic Sepia and add a creative touch to your movies.
You can even shoot in slow- or fast-motion for more dramatic action sequences. The P510 connects easily to your HDTV via the HDMI port so you can share the sights and sounds of your adventure.
Graceful images, memorable moments
Put your personality into every photo. The P510 boasts a variety of quick creative options that include Backlight HDR.
Gain new perspectives
Use the 3-inch ultra-high-resolution (921,000 dot) Vari-angle LCD monitor to capture the most unconventional angles.
Camera does the thinking for you
Keep it simple. Let the camera determine the best settings for the job with 20 pre-programmed Scene modes including Sunset mode.
Frame wide panoramas
Easy Panorama mode automatically combines multiple shots into a seamless 180º or 360º panoramic image. Create unique wide views of your scene.










This has become my “favorite” camera in a very short time. The zoom lens with stabilization makes for some amazing shots. Operation of the camera is fairly intuitive.
The main advantages of the camera are that it is relatively light weight and provides an excellent zoom range, all in one package. Thus, when I don’t want to carry a full sized SLR with lenses, I pick up the P510. Thus, I carry a camera more frequently now.
Got this as a lightweight substitute for my D90 and VidCam for a trip to London & Paris.
Aside from weight savings, advantages were the extra tele zoom range, HD video capability and DSLR style grip. I ended up mostly using the “dummy” point and shoot mode since most we’re record shots. For the most part it performed well. Some issues were having to manually pop the flash when I wanted fill, and poor video auto-focus, and no Raw option. Overall the price/performance was good.
I am a recreational photographer and enjoy this camera immensely! It takes clear crisp photos and is easy to use. Not complicated to use but gives you many options to use to get the perfect shot. The 42x power zoom is awesome!