Nikon Coolpix 4200

My first foray into didital photography is this point and shoot from Nikon. After two years I have to say that I'm mostly pleased with the prints I get from this camera. It was a nice way to get comfortable with digital before moving to the ever-changing digital SLR world. Although Nikon has had much success with the Coolpix series, I wouldn't recomend this particular model (4200) should you find it for a nice price on EBay or the "clearance" bin.

1. Excellent overall outdoor / indoor pictures.
2. Very sharp photos in the "NR" position.
3. Decent colors for small P & S
4. Accurate fill flash levels
5. Metal body
6. Good battery life, but see weakness below.

1. Half of the "picture modes" are usless. The "party mode" takes horrible pictures at a party. Keep it on the default setting except for sunset/sunrise.
2. Needs specific (and expensive) battery so you'll need two if you're shooting for a few hours.
3. Compared to recent models, small preview window.
4. Slow to start, fast to sleep mode.
5. Slow and occasionally confused auto-focus.
6. Technologically 3 years old - a digital lifetime.

All film
Pentax
Olympus

Does anyone have decent customer service? Still looking :)

After my HS reunion, the pictures I took in the "party mode" gave everyone that dark "heroin-look" around the eyes and facial features. I was devastated. When I called Nikon, it was suggested that I use a tripod in the party mode.

I have never seen anyone bring a tripod to a party.