Nikon Coolpix 4500

Depending on the exposure mode, shutter speeds range from 1/2,300th second to eight seconds, and for night time and creative long-exposure shots there's a bulb mode too. The flash gave some nice, subtle, slightly underexposed results. It's quite powerful, but don't expect it to light large areas of space.

Other modes include programmed, shutter or aperture priority, and manual. Like much of the camera, these are based on proven ideas from earlier models, including the 256-segment matrix metering system. In virtually every situation, point-and-shoot captures enough detail, so few will be tempted by the benefits of the centre-weighted or spot modes. The latter can be linked to whichever of the camera's five AF zones is active. There are plenty of other options too, like saturation and sharpening controls, plus Nikon's Best Shot Selector, which all add up to a capable package.

It may have taken Nikon a while to enter the 4-megapixel arena, but the Coolpix 4500 was worth the wait. Features and image quality are good, and there are plenty of additional options, which extend the camera's capabilities further. It may not be revolutionary, but the 4500 does the job well.

Author: John Clements