Introduction
About Your Nikon COOLPIX P950
The Nikon COOLPIX P950 is a versatile compact digital camera designed for capturing both still images and video. It features an expansive 83x optical zoom lens, a 16MP 1/2.3" CMOS sensor, and built-in connectivity options. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your camera.
What's in the Box
Verify that all items are present in your package. The standard camera kit includes:
- Nikon COOLPIX P950 Digital Camera
- EL20a Battery Pack
- Battery Charger
- Micro USB Cable
- Camera Strap
- 67mm Lens Cap
- Lens Hood
Depending on your purchase, additional accessories may be included:
- 64GB Transcend SD Memory Card
- Premium Camera Bag
- 50" Tripod
- USB Memory Card Reader
- Lens Blower
- Lens Cleaning Pen
Image: The Nikon COOLPIX P950 camera shown with various accessories including a tripod, camera bag, memory card, battery, charger, and cleaning tools.
Setup
1. Charging the Battery
Insert the EL20a Battery Pack into the provided charger. Connect the charger to a power outlet. The charging indicator light will show the charging status. Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use.
Image: Individual components of the Nikon accessory kit, including the battery, charger, USB cable, lens cap, lens hood, and camera strap.
2. Inserting the Memory Card
Open the memory card slot cover on the camera body. Insert the 64GB Transcend SD Memory Card with the label facing the correct direction until it clicks into place. Close the cover securely.
Image: Additional bundle accessories, including a Transcend 64GB SD card, camera bag, tripod, USB card reader, lens blower, and lens cleaning pen.
3. Attaching the Lens Cap and Hood
Attach the 67mm lens cap to protect the lens when not in use. For glare reduction and additional protection, align the lens hood with the markings on the lens and twist to secure it.
4. Attaching the Camera Strap
Thread the camera strap through the strap lugs on both sides of the camera body and secure it as instructed in the strap's packaging. This helps prevent accidental drops.
5. Initial Power On
Press the power button to turn on the camera. Follow the on-screen prompts to set the date, time, and language.
Operating the Camera
Basic Photography Modes
The COOLPIX P950 offers various shooting modes accessible via the mode dial:
- Auto Mode: The camera automatically optimizes settings for most shooting conditions.
- Program Auto (P): Allows manual control over some settings while the camera sets exposure.
- Shutter-Priority Auto (S): You set the shutter speed, and the camera adjusts aperture.
- Aperture-Priority Auto (A): You set the aperture, and the camera adjusts shutter speed.
- Manual (M): Full manual control over both shutter speed and aperture.
- Scene Modes: Pre-set modes for specific scenarios like Landscape, Portrait, Sports, etc.
- Movie Mode: For recording videos.
Image: Top view of the Nikon COOLPIX P950, highlighting the mode dial, power button, and zoom control around the shutter button.
Zoom Function
Utilize the 83x optical zoom lens by moving the zoom lever around the shutter button. The camera covers a focal length range equivalent to 24-2000mm. Dual Detect Vibration Reduction helps stabilize images at long zoom settings.
Focusing
The camera uses Contrast Detection Autofocus with 99 autofocus points. Half-press the shutter button to focus on your subject before fully pressing to capture the image.
Connectivity
The P950 features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Use Nikon's SnapBridge app on a mobile device for wireless file transfer and remote camera control.
Display and Viewfinder
The camera features a 3.2-inch LCD display and an electronic viewfinder. The LCD display can be articulated for flexible shooting angles.
Image: The Nikon COOLPIX P950 camera demonstrating its vari-angle LCD screen, which can be rotated and extended for various viewing positions.
Image: Rear view of the Nikon COOLPIX P950, displaying the main LCD screen, directional pad, menu button, and other control buttons.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Camera
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body. For the lens, use a lens cleaning pen or blower to remove dust, then gently wipe with a specialized lens cloth if necessary. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
Battery Care
Store batteries in a cool, dry place. Do not expose them to extreme temperatures. Recharge batteries regularly, even if not in frequent use, to maintain their lifespan.
Storage
When not in use, store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment, preferably in a camera bag. Remove the battery if storing for extended periods.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Nikon COOLPIX P950.
- Camera does not power on: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
- Images are blurry: Check if Dual Detect Vibration Reduction is enabled. Ensure sufficient light for the scene. Use a tripod for very long zoom shots or low-light conditions.
- Memory card error: Ensure the memory card is correctly inserted and not full. Try formatting the card (this will erase all data).
- Cannot connect to smartphone via SnapBridge: Ensure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on both the camera and your smartphone. Restart both devices and try pairing again.
- Flash not firing: Check flash mode settings. Ensure the flash is popped up if set to auto or fill-flash.
If problems persist, consult the official Nikon support resources or contact customer service.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon |
| Model Name | COOLPIX P950 |
| Photo Sensor Resolution | 16 MP |
| Photo Sensor Size | 1/2.3-inch CMOS |
| Optical Zoom | 83x |
| Focal Length (Equivalent) | 24-2000mm |
| Image Stabilization | Dual Detect Vibration Reduction (Optical) |
| Display | 3.2-inch Vari-angle LCD (921,600 dots) |
| Viewfinder | Electronic |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, HDMI |
| Supported File Formats | JPEG, RAW (NRW) |
| Video Resolution | Up to 2160p (4K UHD) |
| Memory Card Type | SD, SDHC, SDXC |
| Battery | EN-EL20a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery |
| UPC | 657768067259 |
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
This product typically comes with a 90-day limited warranty. Please refer to your purchase documentation for specific warranty terms and conditions, as these may vary for renewed products.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty claims, please contact Nikon customer support or the seller from whom the product was purchased.
