The refinement and more consistent implementation and consolidation of the components "compact camera and interchangeable lens" ends here in the form of S1, the very close based on the scope of equipment and the technical features of the Nikon J2, thereby partially but relies on an even more simplified operating concept. It already applies the S1 at the beginning in the expectations realistically classified. Can be expected certainly a device that can upscale compact cameras High in the cold and can be seamlessly integrated into the enqueues passable number now very good system cameras, but of course can not offer full-fledged replacement for a DSLR equipment.
Hardware impression:
The S1 looks high quality and perfectly in workmanship and quality. Traditionally, many different colorful housing options offered me personally the classic white plastic cover like actually best. The body itself is very handy, slightly arched, protected all connections with clean plastic caps. The kit lens rotates slightly, snaps without hesitation and sits stably, but is also rapidly decreases again with a gesture in reverse. At the same time the camera is extremely light (without lens).
Operation:
As already mentioned, the operating concept of S1 is minimalist. A viewfinder is (unfortunately) does not exist, is focused and controlled via the rear 3-inch display. Solid and well I would describe its quality, although in direct sunlight the Blind Flight is inevitable. The key layout is clear, certainly, but also a matter of taste. One - Turning the camera works on the power button or alternatively via the lens release button. A manual dial is (as opposed to the virtual dial in the menu structure) is not available, but only two trigger for image and video function. The flash mode regulates a small button on the left side. The remaining controls can be found on the back of the display, in which case the tilt function of the rotating wheel are associated with another four setting modes (exposure mode, exposure compensation, flash mode, shutter mode).
Clearly, the basic idea of the camera is on rapid and immediate functionality drauflos snap under the motto "goals-shoot" applied. Although the basic menu is kept relatively simple, annoying the change to the sub-categories and the various setting possibilities in the long term. Search confirm, change and save a lot of time here devouring instead of immediate change of preassigned basic functions by pressing a button at comparable system cameras. Nevertheless, many menu settings can be for something familiarization configure free will.
Of course, a staggering amount of effects filters and other know-how is also offered by the Nikon 1 S1. Power in the advertising portfolio of the camera happens to very good, attracts customers and may in certain situations also sure to be a fun, interesting and varied enrichment. Worth mentioning, I consider at this point, especially the BestCaptureModus which automatically filters the purely objective point of view technically elegant image of a set of photographs. Painfully I miss the other hand, the panorama mode.
Technology & Image Quality:
10 Megapixel may seem in conjunction with a CMOS sensor for current conditions somewhat low, but also resemble here the well-known features of J2. Of course, this is considerably less than in good SLR but still stands out of an average compact camera. The image result is the logical consequence of a contrario. While is delivered under good lighting conditions and daylight some outstanding image quality that will never achieve a compact, the result in poorer conditions, therefore dusk, evening light, etc. already noticeably worse. Here is an uneven flash illumination clearly available and, depending on intervention in the ISO values, the results of different "marginally acceptable" to "significantly faded, grainy and dull". At this point I must then but really more professional photographers leave further assessment and evaluation of the image quality of the camera.
There is no doubt compelling is the release rate of S1, triggers with incredible 60 frames per second at full resolution. Here also another short series in different speed versions can be selected. Battery life was a little different in the first test series, but probably also due to the many gimmicks. Meanwhile, the availability stabilized at 250 - a 300 shots, an acceptable for me any time value.
Conclusion: ambitious amateur photographers who aspire to take the plunge into a high-priced DSLR equipment (not yet), the S1 offers certainly a certain urge to buy. Under assistance of automatic programs, it is possible with the S1 to shoot very good and possibly better pictures than with a compact camera, and in addition to rely as appropriate various interchangeable lenses. However, should this not be forgotten that not to be underestimated Surcharges. More generally, the question arises to what extent such a system camera exceeds a really good compact camera or whether some low added value in the photo quality justifies the sometimes significantly higher purchase prices. And especially in view of the already mentioned in the review similarity to J2 I would possibly have recourse to an older, technically almost equal rank, but still cheaper device personally in a direct comparison. That being said - four earned stars for a mature and good system camera, convinced their simple and effective user interface.
