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Nikon COOLPIX AW120 Camera Review

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Powered by Mom Blog shares her review of the Nikon COOLPIX AW120 camera!

Powered by Mom Blog had the opportunity to review the Nikon COOLPIX AW120 16MP Waterproof Shockproof Freezeproof Orange Digital Camera Kit provided by BuyDig. This Nikon COOLPIX AW120 camera kit was selected as it met my criteria for what I was looking for in a compact camera AND I wanted to get it from a reliable source that has great customer service, good prices and fast shipping.

Nikon COOLPIX AW120 camera

I wanted a camera compact enough to fit in my handbag, had superior low-light performance, made for taking action shots and was waterproof. There were other features that I was also looking for but those were my must have features. As a blogger I attend various events and have learned the hard way that my phone is NOT the best option for taking action and low light pictures. Sadly I can't always bring my DSLR camera as it's too bulky and it's just not always practical bring it. I also wanted a camera that would do double duty for family vacations and events hence the waterproof feature. We are travelling to Disneyland this year so can was say water rides. After much researching I decided the Nikon COOLPIX AW120 camera was the one that not only met but exceeded what I was looking for in a small camera.

Although this is not a low light picture it's an example of events I have to attend and how even my 12 year old daughter can take a fabulous picture with ease. The colors are amazing!

Nikon COOLPIX AW120 camera

I went and looked at BuyDig.com first and was happy to learn that they did indeed carry the Nikon COOLPIX AW120 camera and even had a nice camera kit package which I discovered the kit was either the same or less than the price of the camera alone on other sites! Here's what this particular bundle from BuyDig.com included: Bundle Includes:

  • 16GB Secure Digital SD Memory Card
  • Compact Deluxe Gadget Bag for Cameras/Camcorders
  • AA Charger (100-240v) w/ 4 3000mah AA Batteries
  • Hi-Speed SD USB 2.0 Card Reader
  • 3pc. Lens Cleaning Kit
  • Flexible Mini Table-top Tripod

This was quite impressive as everywhere I looked everyone had JUST the camera for more than what BuyDig.com is selling the WHOLE kit! As of today the kit is on for even less at BuyDig.com at only $296.95! Did the Nikon COOLPIX AW120 camera  meet my expectations? YES,  it met my expectations and in some cases already is exceeding them. I say some cases because I'm still figuring out all the features as there are so many! I've taken some fun and colorful shots with ease that I'm quite happy about. Here's an example I love this one 🙂

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I've tried it out for the low-light shots and it has lived up to it's claim of the "Superior low-light performance. The Nikon COOLPIX AW120's highly sensitive CMOS image sensor performs so well in low-light situations that in most cases, using the flash is optional. Capture the moment without interrupting it." Something I hadn't been looking for but I've come to really like is the built-in GPS and Wi-Fi. The GPS will tag and show on the screen and on the digital copy of your picture (if you want) the location of the picture. Now that is invaluable for anyone taking pictures not just for articles that we bloggers do but for family vacations. How many times have you looked at a picture and couldn't remember where it was taken or when? I now use all those features. The wi-fi allows you to upload immediately to share with friends and family or social media, invaluable for a blogger and mom on the go like myself.

This picture I purposely did without a flash to see how it worked in a low-light situation. I liked it as I wanted a detailed but soft focus and the color of the roses stayed true in the picture 😉

roses

I now have a wonderful compact choice for a camera that takes action shots yay! Wish I had this camera when we were at Stars on Ice to capture those moments of skaters jumps and throws. Alas I didn't have the camera then but let me tell you I'm ready to snap those pictures of the family on the rides at Disney as the Nikon COOLPIX AW120 can keep up with those action shots no problem! We have not tested taking pictures underwater but I'm quite confident that it does a superb job as it has with everything else. We'll be testing the waters (ahem) with it on the water rides at Disneyland and Universal this summer. Overall I'm simply thrilled with this camera both professionally and personally speaking as I FINALLY have a camera that I can take anywhere, weighs next to nothing, is nice and small and does a superb job! Thank you BuyDig.com!

This portrait picture also did well as it shows my daughter's beautiful blue eyes, focused on the face ad not the background just what I wanted!

daughter

Are there any cons to this camera? If had to pick a con I would say that you do have to spend some time reading the manual a bit as there are so many features. However you can get started without the manual if you really had to but to fully utilize the camera you should check the manual. The only other thing I would change is the fact that you have to have the cover where the batter is located open in order to plug in the cable to charge the battery. I didn't care for that but it's not the end of the world. It would be better if you could take the battery out and charge it on a separate charger that's my personal preference.

Yes I love taking pictures of plants and flowers as much as I do people 🙂

flowers

If you're looking for a compact camera with lots of amazing features is waterproof, shockproof and Freezeproof the Nikon COOLPIX AW120 camera is the one for you!

By on June 19th, 2014

About Powered by Mom

I’m Michelle aka Powered by Mom. I’m married with one daughter, my hubby was my high school sweetheart, our two dogs Nyx and Cleo and our cat Oliver. As you can see we’re a family of animal lovers. We love to travel when we can, try different food and activities all over the world and enjoy being together. My passions are writing, travelling, creating new recipes, encouraging people to adopt not shop and just to enjoy life while we can.

More posts by this author.

119 thoughts on “Nikon COOLPIX AW120 Camera Review”

  1. I love that the camera has the image sensor, it really does show that no matter the lighting of the area, the camera can take sharp photos and not lose too much color vibrancy! It's also cool that it has the GPS feature! The bundle from Buydig is pretty incredible as it includes many essentials, like the tripod and the charger for the batteries! I'll have to keep the Nikon COOLPIX AW120 in mind since I'm considering buying a new camera soon. The slim size, water-proof quality, GPS, light-sensitivity and so many other features makes this a really good choice!

    Reply
  2. What a fabulous camera! I am all for a camera that you can take pictures with ease and that come out so clear and colorful. I love that's it's water and shockproof, too. I can be clumsy...lol

    Reply
  3. This looks like an awesome camera. The flower pics and the other ones turned out really good. Thanks for the great review 🙂

    Reply
  4. This sounds like a great camera 🙂 I have been looking for a new one to capture my son and new baby girl (arriving next month ) 🙂

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    • Love to have a camera we don't own one but like to be able to do family pics but I.play these sweepstakes all the time never any luck

      Reply
  5. Thank you for the thorough review. I would never have thought such a little camera could pack such a punch! I like the real life pictures.

    Reply
  6. wow what a great value for the pack. I can't believe how great the color is on those pictures. I love a camera that can capture great action shots.

    Reply
  7. I love Nikon cameras and this one is just as awesome. Plus it's waterproof, that means I can take it to the beach and to the pool.

    Reply
  8. This camera looks awesome! Your pictures turned out very clear! I love the package included with it, the rechargeable batteries are pretty much a must have for digital cameras. I would love to win this because I only have my cell phone for pictures, and it is very low quality. I have 3 children under the age of 5 so I would really like to be able to capture their milestones with a good camera!

    Reply
  9. I would love a camera that is a bit smaller than the one I have. This one looks like it accomplishes that without sacrificing on photo quality! I would also love a DSLR but I know I still need something that fits in my bag that doesn't require assembly to use!

    Reply
  10. I love taking photos and for me it is still better with a camera vs the phone. Would love a camera with more bells and whistles.

    Reply
  11. What a great camera.I ussually use my phone,but for special ocassion i would love to use real good camera.My old one was destroyed when i accidently dropped it pool when i was taking picture of my kids.I need waterproof one!

    Reply
  12. How great to find a reliable camera that's waterproof and shockproof! And at a terrific price with all the things I would want and more on a small digital camera. Thanks!

    Reply
  13. This looks like an amazing camera. The pics you took are awesome. I would soooo love to win because my poor camera died after I dropped it. =(

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  14. Love to own one missing a lot of time and chances to take family pictures affording one is the hard part but if I get lucky you never no never give up hope or until they announce a winner I guess lol

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  15. I love this camera! It does all I would need it to. The pics you've put here....the colors just pop right off my screen! Then you have the whole bonus of the kit with it. WOW!! I really hope I win this but if not, I may just have to look into buying one. Great review, much appreciated!

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  16. Thanks for takinga variety of pictures so that we can truly see the camera in action. It's got a lot of great features!

    Reply
  17. I would Really LOVE this Camera and all the accessories with it!!!!!! I believe the best way to *capture* your memories, is by taking pictures of what You see and where You go; then You can share your experiences with the world!!!! As the saying goes: "A picture is worth a thousand words"......and it really is! !!!!! The right photograph can ivoke such a reaction for someone, that they aren't going to ever forget!!!!! I WANT to INVOKE such a "reaction".....and make my "Mark on the world"!!!!!

    Reply
    • I love the camera my family needs a good camera but I can't afford to buy one but wish we could missing out on taking pictures of us and my little neices and more family pictures , now its gone more technical we can share on social networks like facebook thanks for the chance

      Reply
  18. I'm really impressed by the image quality, the fact that you can practically drop if out of an airplane doesn't hurt either. I never really had consider one of the "cool pix" camera's since I really want an slr, but this might be worth considering

    Reply
  19. This was a wonderful review. Very indepth and informative. Love the features. Great for moms/dads on the go! especially if your like me with 3 kids under 10 running around. What a great way of capturing those FOREVER moments. Thank you for the chance to win such a wonderful prize.

    Reply
  20. From all the Reviews I'm reading it sounds like the all around perfect camera especially for the busy Mom on the go all the time, especially with children. Sounds like it almost has a mind of its own and will help to keep us amateurs from making common mistakes, I like that. A really good camera to decide to go from amateur to serious and not spend an enormous amount of money in making the transition. Mighty Fine!!!

    Reply
  21. Wow, I was unaware that Nikon made an relatively affordable camera that is waterproof and shockproof! It sounds like the perfect camera!

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  22. I havent had a real camera besides my phone in such a long time. This camera is awesome alot of features its amazing. Love to own it

    Reply
  23. The camera looks small enough to fit right in my purse. I would really put this Nikon Coolpix to some good use. My cell doesn't have a camera 🙂

    Reply
  24. I would love to win this camera!!! I don't have one and have been wanting to get one and don't have the money for one!! I love taken photos of every thing I can't take very photos on my phone :(. So please pick me if not I am ok with that.

    Reply
  25. Waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof and it's orange. Now, that's impressive. I'm so used to my cell phone for a camera, I actually miss having a camera. This is one that I will need to check out.

    Reply
  26. Thanks for the highly descriptive review of this camera, along with the photograph examples!! This little camera has so many wonderful features for being so compact - and all the accessories that come with it are amazing!! Additionally, the waterproof, shockproof, etc. features are really necessary to protect the camera in all environments - especially taking photos around the pool or lake (or, on water park rides, as you mentioned in your review - great example!) Also, I wouldn't have thought the GPS feature would be necessary - but, it seems very useful for traveling. And lastly, the wi-fi feature is an added bonus - very much needed in today's mobile environment!! What a great camera/prize!!

    Reply
  27. I really like the fact that this camera keeps up with the shot and that it holds true to it's superior low light! Been looking for a camera that does that. So many say they do, but they just don't! Great review, Michelle! Thanks! 🙂

    Reply
  28. Thank you so much for being a fair blogger I think that some bloggers do not pick winners fair at times ( depending on the prize), you are great

    Reply
  29. I really do not much about cameras never had one most I always borrowed but the pictures look great, the color and details are beautiful thanks

    Reply
  30. This camera has so many great features! I can't believe this camera is even freezeproof! Great for winter and summer (waterproof)!

    Reply
  31. I like that your 12 year old daughter can take good pics - that's good news for me! I was also pleased to learn that there is a Flexible Mini Table-top Tripod. That would be a handy item.

    Reply
  32. Great review! This looks like a great camera.. I have been searching for a good one that can take pics of my kids,nature etc

    Reply
  33. Love the review - it sounds like this camera will be perfect in so many situations. It would be awesome for our upcoming cruise. Love that I don't have to worry about water!

    Reply
  34. It does take wonderful pictures. The GPS and WiFi is amazing, being able to upload as you take them is amazing. Great review, I am sold on this!

    Reply
  35. My favorite feature of this camera is that it is waterproof. I'd love to be able to get action shots of the kids at the pool or beach without worrying about destroying my camera, which I did last year.

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  36. Lady those are some fabulous shots! That little camera is a dream! I am in the market for a lil camera as my cell is NOT cutting it. We have lots of grandbabies and I am the typical grandma that loves catching them all being so cute ! We are growing a sunflower Forrest the entire width of the house . They are just starting to open and I can not wait to get pics of them Grands smack in the middle of all those sunny flowers! I have been reading & researching pixels & mega pixels and all other techie jargon trying to make an informed decisions on a small camera. Thanks for showing me what this camera can do.

    Reply
  37. This camera does all you said and Im sure there is more you couldn't even get into the review!!! How lucky you are to have it to try out!!! This is a great camera and I am sure would take just as many great pictures of my kids and plants as it did your your daughter and plants and flowers!!! Great Job!

    Reply
  38. What else is there to say? Waterproof, Shockproof and Freezeproof! Unbelievable! I would love to have this amazing camera! My son is always on the go, so I wish I had a camera that could keep up with him. I think this one would be able to. This sounds amazing! Thank you for the review, and all of the awesome information. God bless!

    Reply
  39. I am going to WI next mth on business so excited and thsi camera would come in handy for when we do sight seeing

    Reply
  40. We are looking for a camera to take the place of our old smartphone which the new phones do not do. Can't believe that the old ones were better. I like the looks of this camera; would the kids take it??? LOL

    Reply
  41. As someone who is looking to buy a new camera I found your review very thorough. The examples of pics in low and high light conditions, really gave me a feel for how the camera would perform! Thank you for giving such an in depth review and the fact that it's waterproof is a huge selling point for me having Grandkids who love to take pics! Nikon should be very happy with the review you provided because I know I am! Thanks so much!

    Reply
  42. I would love to have this CoolPix Camera! The photos you took with it are really beautiful pics!! I could really use a waterproof camera around my 2 1/2 year old grandson! He is always squirting the hose outside at everything!

    Reply
  43. I love the photo of the yellow roses, it turned out so nice. It's also great that your daughter can use it. We took a trip recently with a friend of mine and tried to get some fun pics but they all turned out blurry. That is so frustrating! I really need to get a new camera. I love that it will hold a 16GB card!

    Reply
  44. I have been looking for a good camera for my granddaughter. This one looks like a perfect choice for her.

    Reply
  45. Last time we went to the beach, my husband ruined his camera because it wasn't waterproof. This would be the perfect replacement!

    Reply
  46. this review makes me want to go to the store and check out the camera. pictures are memories of fun times and families. this looks like a good system for it.

    Reply
  47. so many cool things on this website. I would love this awesome camera. Mine is getting old and need a new one.

    Reply
  48. This camera looks like it's a really great one! Love the photo's you posted, they have such great quality to them.

    Reply
  49. My first point and shoot was a Nikon Coolpix, though a much much older model of course. I love the blurring of the background in the photos you took!

    Reply
  50. The last camera that I had was nice but someone took it and I never got it back. But this camera is super fantastic. I would so love to have it! The pictures that you took are superb!

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  51. Love this camera. It does take some nice pictures. I love all of the features and extras shown here too. Thanks for the information on it.

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  52. Thanks for showing example shots. I know it says low light shots, but I'm a bit of a cynic about product claims until I actually see proof. Your shots are all fantastic! I'm amazed at all the features on this camera for a compact and for such a low price.

    Reply
  53. Seems like a great camera. I love that it works so well in low-light; something that my current camera isn't so good at.

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  54. Great review I love that it is compact, but my favorite this is that it is waterproof. I love the beach and pics in the water is a must have on vacation. thankyou for the review.

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  55. The nikon-coolpix-camera-waterproof looks like a really great camera.I love that it is waterproof.I am really thinking about getting this camera soon.

    Reply
  56. I haven't owned a camera for years and this one sounds really nice. I would love to take pictures of my grandchildren again so I have those wonderful memories. I also love the waterproof feature too. You never know when that would come in handy.

    Reply
  57. Love all the pics you've posted. I could really use a new indestructible camera to take pics of my three kiddos.

    Reply
  58. What a great review! I hate taking pictures with my phone, they always turn out horrible. They look all grainy and blurry, and the color is always off. I would love to buy this camera! It sounds perfect. Thanks! 🙂

    Reply
  59. I love all your pictures! I have an old digital camera that I use as well as my phone. This would be awesome to win, I live by the beach and love taking pictures of the water, thank you for the awesome review 🙂

    Reply
  60. Nice review and cool camera, I have never owned a digital camera and would love to have one. I have an old cell phone that I take pictures on but boy, the pictures are nothing like these. The pictures from this camera are so clear and crisp.

    Reply
  61. This seems to be the perfect camera for summertime activities. Being versatile enough to withstand beach trips, cookout, camp out sad more, yet still n provide sharp pictires!

    Reply
  62. Wow! That's a pretty nice camera. I am definitely interested in it. My camera is OLD. It's an Easyshare 5 megapixel. Had it for 9 years now and it still works but these cameras do so much more now than what mine does. I'm going to go check one of these out. Thank you for the info, I like it!

    Reply
  63. I love the color quality of those pictures. My cellphone takes horrible pics and my good camera is so big; love that you can just put this in your bag and take it with you (you can't forget it). Love your reviews, you always address all the key elements honestly.

    Reply
  64. I love the camera comes in orange. My favorite color is orange and it hard to find electronics in that color. You can definitely tell that it is 16MP. The pictures turned out great.

    Reply
  65. I love that the camera takes such wonderful pictures and light weight, I have been trying to win a camera going to keep my fingers crossed 🙂 great review and awesome pictures 😉

    Reply
  66. Love the color and the camera too,I have arthritis in both of my hands and looks light weight,so it would be easy for me to handle,thanks for the chance.

    Reply
  67. I love this camera it is smaller then mine it is also a cool pics but it had the snap out lense. This would be so much easier to handle.

    Reply
  68. This is really a nice camera!! thanks for sharing your pics so we can see for ourselves what great photos it took!!
    My poor 'ol camera has seen better days so I'm keeping my fingers crossed!! Again thanks for the pics and your honest review

    Reply
  69. This is such an awesome camera, the pictures are great!! They are so clear, love all the features you mentioned

    Reply

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