Nikon Best Shot Selector^TM

Best Shot Selector^TM is a Nikon exclusive technology that takes up to 10 shots as long as the shutter release is pressed. The sharpest single shot is saved and the rest is discarded. This feature is useful for minimizing motion blur due to camera shake, especially if the zoom is set to telephoto. The first photo in the series determines focus, exposure, and white balance. The manual also suggests BSS may be ideal for macro close-up shots at ranges less than 1’ 8" (52cm). But engaging the self timer to minimize shutter release shake will disable BSS since the self-timer will only take one shot. So you have to make a choice: Use BSS and risk shutter release shake or engage the self-time and disable BSS. Nikon does not include a remote shutter release so you have to use the shutter release on the camera. As stated on page 113 of the manual, BSS will only work in Single shooting mode and will be disabled when noise reduction is set to Clear Image Mode^TM. Selecting BSS also disables the flash since the flash cannot fire 10 time consecutively in the given time. Typically, you would not use BSS when taking flash shots since the flash will effectively freezes most motion blur. BSS is not recommended for moving subjects.

The Nikon BSS feature is most useful in diminishing blur due to camera shake. The G2 does not have this feature but it does have a faster lens. At full telephoto, the G2 can shoot at f/2.5 compared to the CP5000's f/4.8. That makes the G2 1 2/3 stops faster than the CP5000. In low light handheld test, the CP5000's BSS worked remarkably well even when shooting handheld at 1 sec. Ultimately, you have to be the judge of what’s more important when it comes to low light telephoto shots, BSS or a faster lens. Wouldn’t it be great if the ultimate digicam featured BSS and a fast image stabilized lens? One can only dream.

Advantage: CP5000 for a very innovative solution to a very common problem.