Nikon P6000 gets geo-tagging, RAW, Ethernet

Nikon on Thursday introduced its newest flagship COOLPIX P6000 compact camera. Offering 13.5 megapixel resolution, the solid Magnesium alloy P6000 includes a new, built-in global positioning system (GPS) unit for geo-tagging photos, RAW file support, my Picturetown connectivity with built-in uploading functions via the built-in Ethernet and Nikon's exclusive EXPEED image processing. The P6000 can record "geotags" of a photo's location with both latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates and users can pinpoint the location via maps available in Nikon ViewNX Software.

Like other COOLPIX P-Series cameras, the P6000 includes controls via dedicated command and mode dials for shooting controls and exposure mode settings. The P6000 offers Programmed Auto [P], Shutter-priority Auto [S], Aperture-priority Auto [A] and Manual [M] modes DSLR-like in its COOLPIX line. It also offers two user-defined settings, a shooting menu (with a tabbed menu interface), and customizable Function buttons to quickly switch between camera settings.

The camera also supports Nikon’s original COOLPIX Picture Control System and a new NRW (RAW) support. The COOLPIX Picture Control System offers controls that enable users to adjust their images to pre-set parameters such as Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome and apply tweaks to image sharpening, tone compensation, brightness, overall tone and saturation. In addition, images shot in the all-new NRW (RAW) format can be opened and viewed in Nikon ViewNX Software (due in early October 2008) for advanced editing features.

In addition, the P6000 incorporates a pop-up flash, optical viewfinder for easy composition and supports accessories such as an optional convertor, Speedlights, and wireless remote control. Nikon's new 0.76x Wide-angle Convertor WC-E76 offers users the option to utilize focal lengths as wide as 21mm (35mm format equivalent). P6000 users can also take full advantage of Nikon's Creative Lighting System with the built-in accessory shoe that supports Nikon's i-TTL flash control, which enables wireless control over one group of remote Speedlights including the newly announced SB-900 Speedlight.

The new P6000 camera is compatible with new high-capacity SDHC cards, and utilizes a Nikon EN-EL5 rechargeable Li-ion battery. It also comes bundled with the COOLPIX Software Suite for editing, organizing and sharing images.

The Nikon COOLPIX P6000 will be available beginning September 2008 for $500.