Gadgetrepublic.com - Gadget Review

The Coolpix S1000pj is a 12.1-megapixel digital compact with a 2.7inch wide viewing-angle TFT LCD monitor but the novelty angle is the built-in projector that allows the user to project their images onto their living room wall across an area varying in size from 5 inches up to 40 inches, depending on the lighting in the room.

If you should feel like putting on an old-fashioned slide show of your holiday snaps, the Coolpix S1000pj comes with a remote control and projection stand so you can stand back and get the popcorn in.

The projector is activated by pressing a button on the front and you can focus the image using a slider. Depending on where you aim the picture you get a different sized 'screen'.

Your best best is to aim at a white wall and turn out the lights but I projected images onto my colleagues faces and backs (to their annoyance) and it worked fine.

The quality of the 12-megapixel camera itself is quite good and it is straight forward and easy to use. Because of the built-in projector it is a little heavier and therefore not as portable as the average compact snapper but this wasn't a problem for me as I was too excited about subjecting friends and family to my fascinating slideshow.

You can also play back video footage but be warned that the battery life on full projection only runs to about an hour.

The S1000pj also has a host of intelligent imaging tweaks including face tracking, anti-blur and 'Skin Softening' for onboard airbrushing of imperfections as well as red eye elimination and Smile Mode.

It is a bit pricey but considering it is a pretty unique compact digital it is worth getting if you want to splash out on a quality camera with extras without going the full hog and opting for a DSLR (digital SLR).

Price: €485
Get it: All good camera shops nationwide

By Marie Boran