Best Replacement For Nikon Coolpix 995?

June 10, 2015

I bought a Nikon Coolpix 995 in 2001 and it has served me well. Even after 14 years of taking watch and pen photos, about all I can do is put it on a tripod, point and shoot. I have no knowledge of settings and don't use any post processing. Still, the pictures are pretty good - at least, good enough for my purposes.

I have tried to use macro settings on slightly newer small pocket sized cameras like Sony DSC S90 and Canon SD850 but can't seem to get them to focus properly. My Nikon almost always gives me a good shot first time every time.

The camera seems to be misbehaving and I think maybe it is time for a replacement. So what's a good choice for a total simpleton like me? What has given you good results for pen photography?

June 13, 2015

For my pen pics, I still am using an old timer too, a Nikon D80 with a manual micro nikkor 55mm.

But I also have a compact Sony DSC RX-100 which I can higly recommend. Sometimes, it's used for pen pics too:

Pelikan 400 101 Tortoise by C.M.Z., auf Flickr

C.

June 16, 2015

B&H Photo has this for $70, used but the page says:

Nikon Normal Macro 55mm f/3.5 Micro Nikkor Manual Focus Lens (Non-AI, NOT for Digital)

Comment?

June 17, 2015

B&H Photo has this for $70, used but the page says:

Nikon Normal Macro 55mm f/3.5 Micro Nikkor Manual Focus Lens (Non-AI, NOT for Digital)
Comment?

Absolutely correct. BUT, if you don't use any autmatical mode* (as I don't for my pen pics), it works perfectly.

But wait, my advice was NOT to get a Nikon D80 with a manual micro nikkor, I highly recommended the SONY DSsC RX-100 in my post!

C.

*means: no auto focus, no auto exposure.

Edited June 17, 2015 by christof

June 17, 2015

I already have a Nikon D70. I am trying to find the best solution using it. I have an Olympus OM1 with a macro lens, and I may just try a roll of slides and convert to digital from them.