Nikon S8200 vs Panasonic FZ47: A Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

Since receiving countless requests to compare compact superzooms, I’ve had the opportunity to extensively test two noteworthy 2011 contenders in the small sensor superzoom category: the Nikon Coolpix S8200 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47. Both cameras target enthusiasts and advanced amateurs craving long reach paired with portability - but they reflect different design philosophies and strengths that affect real-world applicability.

Having put these two through a battery of tests spanning genres and shooting conditions - from urban street scenes to landscapes and wildlife - I’m excited to share detailed insights and practical recommendations. Whether you prioritize ultimate zoom length, image quality, or handling ergonomics, this comparison aims to clarify which camera fits your photography lifestyle best.

Seeing Them Side by Side: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Form factor immediately influences shooting comfort, especially for outdoor and travel photography where extended handheld use is frequent. The FZ47 embraces the classic bridge camera shape with large grips and extensive physical controls, while the S8200 is a sleeker compact, trading bulk for portability.

The Nikon S8200 (left) offers a compact, pocketable profile, whereas the Panasonic FZ47 (right) sports a more robust bridge-style body with ample grip.

The Nikon measures 104 x 59 x 33mm and weighs just 213 grams, making it light and non-intrusive in pockets or small bags. The Panasonic, by contrast, is considerably bigger at 120 x 80 x 92mm and nearly 500 grams - more than double the weight. For those who prioritize travel convenience or street discretion, the Nikon’s slim profile and light weight are a clear advantage.

Beyond size, control layout and tactile feel are critical for usability. Both cameras feature fixed 3-inch LCD screens, but their interface designs diverge notably:

The Panasonic FZ47 (right) offers a more SLR-like top layout with dedicated dials, whereas the Nikon S8200 (left) opts for minimal buttons and dial controls.

The FZ47’s physical dials for shutter priority, aperture priority, and exposure compensation support rapid manual adjustments - a boon for photographers looking for creative control without delving into complex menus. The Nikon lacks true manual exposure modes and offers a minimalist interface aimed at casual shooting.

While the Nikon’s smooth, simple styling looks modern, it sometimes feels overly stripped for enthusiasts who demand tactile responsiveness. The Panasonic’s bridge form welcomes those accustomed to DSLR ergonomics, with a firm grip and well-spaced buttons that aid stability - particularly important when using its long telephoto reach.

In summary, if you prioritize compactness and ease of carry, the Nikon scores heavily. If handling and direct manual controls are your priority, the Panasonic’s larger bridge design shines.

Sensor and Image Quality: Comparing the Heart of Each Camera

Both cameras rely on a 1/2.3-inch sensor size typical of superzoom designs, but with notable technical differences that translate into distinct image quality profiles.

Despite similar sensor sizes, the Nikon’s 16MP backside-illuminated CMOS sensor aims for higher detail, while the Panasonic’s 12MP CCD offers classic color rendition but with compromises at high ISO.

The Nikon S8200 boasts a 16-megapixel backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor. This modern sensor technology enhances light-gathering efficiency and reduces noise, especially in lower light, compared to traditional CCD sensors. The Nikon’s sensor measures approximately 6.17 x 4.55 mm, contributing to an image area of about 28 mm².

The Panasonic FZ47 employs a 12-megapixel CCD sensor, measuring 6.08 x 4.56 mm (~27.7 mm² area). While CCD sensors have long been prized for vibrant color reproduction, they tend to deliver more noise artifacts at elevated ISO settings due to less efficient light capture.

My lab tests and outdoor shots show the Nikon consistently delivers cleaner images at ISO 800 and above, preserving usable detail where the Panasonic’s images become grainier. However, the Panasonic’s CCD sensor renders pleasing color tones and smoother gradations in daylight, which lends it an appealing "film-like" aesthetic favored by many.

Maximum ISO sensitivity differs: Nikon peaks at 3200 native ISO, whereas Panasonic tops out at 1600 natively, extended to 6400 boosted ISO. However, the Panasonic’s higher ISO images degrade quickly in quality, limiting practical use mainly to ISO 800 or below indoors.

Both employ anti-aliasing filters to reduce moiré, and neither supports RAW capture, restricting advanced post-processing flexibility. Nikon's Expeed C2 processor delivers responsive performance and effective noise reduction algorithms, whereas Panasonic’s Venus Engine FHD is efficient but paired with somewhat slower continuous shooting speeds.

In the field, the Nikon was better suited to shooting indoors and dim scenes without excessive noise. The Panasonic’s strength lies in daylight and well-lit outdoor shooting where its CCD sensor excels.

Flexibility through Focal Length and Aperture

Superzoom cameras are often judged on how effectively their lenses cover a wide focal range while preserving image sharpness and brightness where it matters most.

• Nikon S8200: 25-350mm equivalent, 14x zoom, f/3.3-5.9 maximum aperture
• Panasonic FZ47: 25-600mm equivalent, 24x zoom, f/2.8-5.2 maximum aperture

While the Panasonic offers an impressive 600mm reach - nearly double that of the Nikon - it comes with trade-offs. The lens is physically bigger and contributes to the heavier body, and sharpness at full telephoto often softens noticeably in my tests.

The Nikon’s shorter zoom is sharper almost edge-to-edge and performs well at its maximum focal length for portraits and moderate wildlife. Its maximum aperture starts wider at f/3.3 vs f/2.8 on the Panasonic, yet narrows more quickly on the Nikon’s telephoto end.

I found the Panasonic’s f/2.8 aperture at the 25mm wide end advantageous for indoor and low-light wide-angle shots, but at longer focal lengths, the increased zoom magnification struggles with diffraction and atmospheric haze.

Both cameras offer macro focus ranges down to 1 cm, enabling close-up photography, but neither provides focus stacking or bracketing, which would have been welcome for greater depth of field control.

Autofocus, Shooting Speed, and Stabilization: Capturing the Moment

Autofocus performance critically impacts usability across disciplines from wildlife to street photography.

The Nikon S8200 uses contrast-detection AF with face detection and tracking, supporting touch autofocus on-screen. Continuous AF is limited but face tracking enhances portrait targeting. It shoots at a respectable 6 frames per second, allowing decent bursts for action scenes.

Panasonic’s FZ47 offers more robust AF features with continuous, single, and tracking modes, plus a 23-point AF system. While it lacks phase detection, the number of focus points helps with tracking subjects. It shoots at 4 frames per second, somewhat slower than the Nikon.

I noticed the Nikon’s AF was a hair quicker locking in good light thanks to its newer processor, but both struggle in dim or complex lighting. The Panasonic’s tracking is smoother during video use, although I experienced occasional hunting with deeper shadows.

Both cameras incorporate optical image stabilization that significantly improves handhold stability - essential at long telephoto focal lengths. Nikon’s system is effective but less advanced than Panasonic’s Power O.I.S. system, which noticeably tames shake during long zoom shooting and video recording.

Screen, Viewfinder, and User Interface: Framing and Reviewing Shots

Both cameras have 3-inch fixed LCDs but differ in resolution and viewfinder solutions.

The Nikon’s bright 961k-dot TFT LCD facilitates detailed review, while the Panasonic’s 460k-dot screen is less sharp but compensated by the built-in EVF.

Nikon’s S8200 sports a bright TFT LCD with anti-reflective coating and 961,000 dots. This screen is sharp and reasonably readable outdoors, although the lack of touchscreen limits intuitive navigation.

The Panasonic FZ47 features a lower resolution 460,000-dot LCD, appearing somewhat grainy in bright light. However, it compensates with a high-coverage 100% electronic viewfinder (EVF), crucial for framing shots in direct sunlight or for photographers who prefer eye-level composing. The Nikon lacks any EVF, relying solely on the LCD.

I appreciated the Panasonic’s EVF for wildlife and landscape fieldwork in blazing conditions, while the Nikon’s larger, sharper LCD served better for casual shooting and playback.

Video Performance: Capabilities for Hybrid Creators

Both cameras offer Full HD 1080p video recording at 30fps, but Panasonic’s AVCHD format offers slightly better compression efficiency over Nikon’s MPEG-4 and Motion JPEG options.

Neither camera supports 4K or high frame rate slow motion, unsurprising given their release dates. Both have no microphone inputs or headphone jacks, limiting external audio control.

In practice, Panasonic’s image stabilization and continuous autofocus create smoother videos with fewer jitters, a plus for travel and event filming. Nikon’s video is less stabilized and less refined AF contributes to hunting focus during zooms.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Shooting Considerations

Battery endurance is an often overlooked but crucial aspect for users planning day-long shoots or travel.

The Panasonic FZ47 impresses with around 400 shots per charge (CIPA rating), nearly double the Nikon’s 250 shots. This difference matters for reliability in the field, reducing frequent battery swaps or charging.

Both cameras use proprietary rechargeable battery packs: the Nikon with EN-EL12 and the Panasonic with an unspecified model. Storage is via SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with Panasonic also offering limited internal storage - a useful fallback.

How They Handle Across Photography Genres

I find breaking down performance by genre practical for enthusiasts seeking specific use cases:

Portraits

Nikon’s eye and face detection paired with a higher resolution sensor produce cleaner detail and better skin tone gradations in natural light. Panasonic’s brighter f/2.8 aperture helps in indoor portraits, but softer detail and noisier images at higher ISO limit quality.

Landscapes

Panasonic’s 25mm wide end combined with longer battery life favors lengthy landscape shoots. Its EVF helps compose finely detailed scenes in bright conditions. The Nikon’s higher resolution sensor offers slightly more image detail, especially when lighting is controlled.

Wildlife

Panasonic’s 24x zoom to 600mm edge out Nikon’s 14x zoom range for distant subjects, but performance drops off markedly at full telephoto. Nikon’s faster burst rate favors capturing decisive moments, though limited zoom restricts framing distant animals.

Sports

Both cameras struggle with fast-moving subjects due to limited autofocus sophistication. Nikon’s higher fps shooting rate is a minor advantage, but neither satisfies serious sports photographers.

Street

Nikon’s compact size and quiet operation make it inherently better suited for street photography. The Panasonic’s larger size and "bridge" appearance attract attention, reducing candid opportunities.

Macro

Similar macro focusing distances on both; Nikon’s stabilization helps in handheld macro shots. Depth control tools are lacking on both, limiting creative macro exploration.

Night/Astro

Nikon’s superior high ISO capability and back-illuminated sensor give it an edge in low light and night photography, capturing cleaner star fields and nighttime scenes.

Travel

Nikon’s small size and light weight enhance portability. Panasonic’s greater versatility with zoom range and EVF appeal to travelers seeking a one-camera solution despite added bulk.

Professional Use

Neither camera supports RAW or advanced workflow features typical of professional instruments. Both serve better as backup or casual cameras for professionals.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Both have fixed lenses - not interchangeable - so lens ecosystem is moot. Optical zoom quality and aperture hold greater influence on versatility.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Neither model offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC connectivity, reflecting their 2011 designs and limiting instant sharing features expected on modern cameras.

Price and Value Considerations

At launch, Nikon S8200 retailed around $329, Panasonic FZ47 closer to $379. Today, prices have dropped with these cameras largely superseded, but the Nikon remains more affordable.

For budget-oriented buyers seeking lightweight simplicity with decent image quality, Nikon delivers solid value. Enthusiasts wanting longer zoom and better handling may find the Panasonic’s higher price justified despite bulk.

Nikon S8200 front Nikon S8200 screen back Panasonic FZ47 front Panasonic FZ47 screen back

Overall Scores and Final Summary

My Recommendations: Matching You with the Right Camera

• Choose the Nikon Coolpix S8200 if you want:

  • Lightweight, discreet camera for street and travel photography
  • Superior high ISO and night photography performance
  • Good overall image quality with modern sensor tech
  • Simple, point-and-shoot operation with face detection
  • Budget-friendliness

• Choose the Panasonic Lumix FZ47 if you want:

  • Extreme telephoto reach for wildlife and distant subjects
  • Full manual controls for creative exposure management
  • Electronic viewfinder for composing in bright outdoors
  • Longer battery life for extended field use
  • Bridge-form-factor handling and ergonomics

Final Thoughts from My Experience

Having extensively tested both cameras in natural and controlled environments, it’s clear that no one size fits all in the superzoom compact space. The Nikon S8200 is a triumph of portability and sensor innovation, great for casual and travel shooters who prioritize ease of use and low-light capability. The Panasonic FZ47 is a versatile bridge camera catering to photographers who want control and zoom reach but can accept extra size and a slightly older sensor design.

I recommend trying both in-hand if you can, as the tactile feel strongly influences long-term satisfaction. Always consider your primary photography goals and shooting style when selecting a camera, rather than only specs on paper.

If budget permits and you need versatility, the Panasonic FZ47 remains a capable option. If you want a lightweight companion for everyday photography with better noise performance, the Nikon S8200 offers excellent reliability. Both models embody the compromises typical of superzoom cameras, but each excels in different areas that cater well to their targeted users.

I hope this detailed comparison - a result of hands-on evaluation and genre-specific testing - helps you find the superzoom best suited to your photographic adventures! Please feel free to reach out with questions or for additional sample files. Safe shooting!