Review on Nikon COOLPIX S30: 10.1 MP Blue Digital Camera with 3x Zoom, 2.7-inch LCD by Frank Mayes

Intended use of this camera: photographing gardens and landscapes, mainly for before and after photography, but also for documenting technical aspects - performing landscape installation work. (Valves, wiring, joinery, etc.) Why I bought this model: Less than $150. Powered by (2) standard AA batteries, no proprietary power supply. Advertised as waterproof to 10 feet. (Important because I can use it in wet/muddy conditions in the garden.) My experience so far: Received the camera in May 2012, took a few hundred shots, dropped it about 3 feet onto a linoleum surface (not exactly a big one actually drops), and the LCD screen went black. Warranty service was free (full replacement) but took over 6 weeks to process. Image quality is good (for such a small lens) *when the camera autofocuses correctly*, which it does about 75% of the time, even in broad daylight. Often tends to overexpose shots taken in bright light. Distortions are particularly noticeable. when trying to photograph faces from less than 6 feet away. Macro/close up mode is good to around 2 inches. annoying in some low-light situations. Not sure about the water resistance, haven't tested it underwater or in heavy rain yet. Automatic exposure. For simple service purposes, however, it works well for now. Don't expect great pictures from it.