Nikon Coolpix S710: A compact that wants to be a dSLR

(Credit: Nikon)

Many photo enthusiasts shun the use of compact digital cameras. And while attempts have been made to woo dSLR users to the small side, the Coolpix S710 offers up a lot of compelling features in a stylish package. With its 14.5-megapixel resolution, 3.6x Zoom-Nikkor wide-angle glass lens, 3.0-inch LCD monitor with an antireflective coating, and a viewing angle of 170 degrees, the S710 has all of Nikon's bells and whistles found across the Coolpix line, but goes the S710 takes them a little further.

For example the Face-Priority AF feature automatically finds and focuses on up to 12 faces within one frame (in comparison, the S610 only focuses on five faces). Likewise, while the S610 stops at an ISO sensitivity of 3200, the S710 ISO goes up to 12800.

(Credit: Nikon)

What'll really be of interest to hobbyists is that the S710 offers Programmed Auto [P], Shutter-priority Auto [S], Aperture-priority Auto [A] and Manual [M] modes--previously only available on Coolpix P-series cameras and SLRs.

All this in a pocketable package available in graphite black, deep red, and brilliant silver. You'll be able to pick one up in September for $379.95.