Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am going to buy a new digital camera. I've already decided on a Nikon Coolpix but I'm not sure which model to go with. Here are some features I am looking for...

1)ease of use
2)great macro shots
3)ability to take good field pics from a few feet away to landscape shots

I've been looking at different reviews but still unsure. I was thinking either the 4300 or 5700. Please let me know your thoughts , especially those that may have used both of these models. Also, are there any extra's such as a tripod or other item's you would deem essential. Thanks in advance. Happy Holiday's!

Tom

I don't know anything about the Nikon CoolPix Cameras, really. I use Canon SLR's. Anything that Nikon makes should be good, though.

What I can tell you is that for consistently good Macro work, a tripod and cable release (or remote release) are indispensable. You have to eliminate vibration because it is magnified along with the image.

I have used both and both do very good macro work as well as good all around shots. The 4300 is easier to use but neither is very hard once you read the manual and play around with them a bit. The 5700 can be a tad confusing simply due to having a ton of things you can adjust on it but the controls are similar to the 4300.

Phil