Bridge cameras are literally a bridge between the compact ‘point-and-shoot’ camera and an entry-level DSLR.  Nikon’s range of bridge cameras, including the COOLPIX P520, L820 and L320, offer some of the functionalities found in its entry level DSLRs: they are light, user-friendly and ideally designed for photographic enthusiasts.

The most notable features of these cameras are the impressive super-zoom capabilities, high megapixel count, the relatively compact proportions of the camera, and in the case of Nikon’s offerings, the quality NIKKOR glass.

Travelling the range

The Nikon COOLPIX P520 is billed as being ‘the ultimate bridge camera’ boasting 42x super zoom capabilities and 18 megapixels. With the ability to shoot wide angles or telephoto, this camera gives its user creativity to shoot different angles, and a choice of 19 scene modes. The P520 bridge camera is equipped with built-in lens vibration to help steady hand held shots, and also offers a vari-angle LCD screen for self-portraits. Additionally, users can easily switch over to full HD video and geotag their photographs with the P520’s built-in GPS function. The optional Wi-Fi capabilities further enable photographers to share images straight to a smart device.

Nikon COOLPIX P520

The Nikon COOLPIX L820 is a stylish and user-friendly camera with a 16 megapixel count and large 7.5cm LCD screen. Billed as a camera for every occasion, it offers both a 30x zoom and the flexibility to film all the action in full HD at the touch of a button. The camera is similarly equipped with 19 scene modes. It however, caters particularly to beginners, as it offers an Easy Auto mode to ensure all the settings are correct no matter what the location or lighting. Furthermore, the L820 can keep images sharp thanks to its side lever zoom and optical lens-shift vibration technology.

Nikon COOLPIX L820

The Nikon COOLPIX L320 is a lightweight and classic-looking 16 megapixel camera that is intended to cater to a myriad of photographic opportunities. To this end, it boasts a 26x zoom lens, user friendly buttons and Easy Auto mode. The latter configures the Nikon L320 to automatically choose the best scene mode to capture the optimal image possible, while ensuring that no shot is missed. The Nikon L320 is also equipped with anti-blur lens vibration technology to assist with hand held shots, and a 7.5cm LCD screen to view images in crisp clarity.

Nikon COOLPIX L320

To the point

In essence, a bridge camera offers users the creative control to play around with settings, while switching over with ease between manual and auto functions. Thanks to the lightweight design, these models are perfectly suitable for a range of activities. Photographic enthusiasts, nature lovers and families can use these cameras to capture special occasions, outdoor activities and even birdlife.

For photographers seeking a camera that is affordable, compact and lightweight that offers optimal zoom functionality in almost any situation, Nikon’s range of bridge cameras is an ideal choice.