SMILE, blink and distortion controls are the smarts that set the Nikon S550 apart from the rest of the pack.

The smile detection function is just dandy. And it works even for group shots. Using this mode, I grew lazy. I simply pointed the camera at myself or others, smiled and waited for the camera to take my photos without even touching the shutter button.

The blink warning notifies you once a blink is detected. So gone are the days when someone would unintentionally ruin a group shot by blinking or shutting his eyes briefly.

The S550 also detects distortions (when using the camera's zoom lenses at wide angles) and tries to straighten the lines. This is great for wide-angle shots where the horizon is in the background or when shooting pictures of buildings.

With its 10 megapixel sensor and a 36 to 180mm zoom at 35mm equivalent, the S550 has the same capabilities - and weaknesses - as the S210. This is mainly noise in the images. Try to limit the ISO setting to 400. Use the Hi ISO function only when quality is of secondary concern.

FINAL SAY
A point-and-shoot camera that distinguishes itself from its rivals with its three detection technologies.