Nikon's Coolpix 3500 follows up on the design of their 2500, featuring a swivel-out lens, complete with a 3x optical zoom, which closes up when not in use. The lens clicks into three different angles (straight out, 45-degrees above and below) when taking pictures, with the user lining up the shot in the bright and crisp 1.5-inch LCD.
The 3500 also has a built-in autoflash and can capture images at up to 3.2 megapixels. It does take a few moments to focus in on your subject, and the image quality isn't the best we've seen (we noticed some flares and dark shadows). But this camera was built more for portability than high-end imaging.
And it definitely hits--and fits--on that level. It weighs only six ounces, and the camera can easily slide into a jeans pocket or hang around your neck.
Several features geared toward the beginning user are included with the 3500. The one-touch upload option takes the thought out of transferring images to your PC. And with the Best Shot Selector option turned on, the 3500 will quickly capture up to 10 shots and choose the sharpest and brightest image. There's also a 20-minute introductory video on CD that walks novices through the digital camera basics.
A 16 MB CompactFlash card ships with the 3500, which will hold 19 images at the highest resolution. However, if you're going to use the camera's movie mode (it can hold passable 35-second soundless clips), you'll want to expand. Our one beef comes with the lithium-ion battery, which needs to be removed to be recharged.
The Nikon Coolpix 3500 would make a great gift for a parent or child new to the digital camera world. It's very user friendly and ultimately portable. --J. Curtis
Pros:
- Nicely compact
- Innovative twisting lens design
- Excellent features for the beginner
- Bright, crisp LCD
- Average image quality
- Have to remove battery to recharge
Product Description:
Take the Nikon Coolpix 3500 out for a spin. This elegant digital camera features a unique inner-swivel design for free-angle shooting. Hold the camera in any position comfortable for you, and twist its 3x Zoom-Nikkor Lens and built-in flash to get the best view. Its 3.2 effective Megapixel CCD captures every image with stunning sharpness and brilliant color. The Coolpix 3500 is so stylish, compact and lightweight, it slips right into your pocket - but you won't want to keep it there. Its ergonomic design puts every function within easy reach. Take advantage of 12 Scene Modes to set the camera for any shooting situation at the touch of a key, a Quick Review and Small Picture button to view and save images for e-mailing, and One-Touch Upload to transfer your pictures to a computer with ease. The Coolpix 3500. Sure to turn some heads.
Nikon Coolpix 3500 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom