9. Conclusion

Though we have several reservations about the Nikon Coolpix 8700, we have to admit that its innate qualities override many failings. Its short battery life is very bad for intensive use indoors or out, but its compactness and versatile lens are enough in themselves.

As we have seen, the 8700 is above all a very smart compact, much more than a digicam with reflex attitude. It's up to the photographer to decide for or against, according to need. We are convinced its real place is in the studio, an environment where control of lighting conditions and electricity allow it to do its best. And that's where you miss the synchro socket, but you can't please everybody.