Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

The Nikon Coolpix 8700 is an upgrade of the 5700, using the same magnesium alloy chassis, with some significant changes. Of course, the biggest change is the the growth from 5 to 8 megapixels. On a practical level, this means that flawless 16x20 prints are now a reality for advanced amateur digital photo enthusiasts. I've heard a claim that 20x30" prints can be made from 8 MP cameras, but I have yet to try that large a print. Other changes are 1) A significantly better LCD that is both bigger and brighter, 2) A gorgeous viewfinder that is crisp and finely detailed (a real improvement here!), 3)Easier menus that ironically provide even more choices, 4) A focus assist light, 5) Optional composition assist lines that can be switched on and off, 6) A faster start-up time, and 7) A memo recording mode. A niggling omission that I've wished Nikon would incorporate into their high end Coolpix's is a 35mm style manual focus ring. Why they don't do this I don't know, but can only suppose it's because the lens tube and elements are much more delicate than on a 35mm lens and they don't want people torquing on it. The camera company where I bought the 8700 (in Porland, Oregon) recommended the Coolpix 8700 over the Sony, the Konica/Minolta A2 and the upcoming Canon Powershot Pro 1. Part of the reason was the full line of accessories, like the eminently useful vertical grip/battery pack. I recommend this and the filter adapter for anyone purchasing this camera. The Nikon Coolpix 8700 is a great upgrade to an already terrific camera. Because I wanted to be able to print 16x20, I made the switch from the 5700. The other enhancements also make it worthwhile, albeit expensive, to make the upgrade.