Nikon snapped into action further today, refreshing its popular P300 range with a 16Mp creative compact, basic in design and bold in functionality.

The Nikon Coolpix P310 features a Nikkor 4.2x optical zoom lens with a 24mm wide angle and a bright f/1.8 aperture.

The back-illuminated CMOS 1/2.3 type sensor claims additional image stability with 'lens shift vibration reduction' which apparently enables the steady use of shutter speeds up to four times slower.

Supported by Nikon's latest image processor, the Expeed C2; full manual shooting; and a 99-point AF system, the P310 packs a photographic punch.

On the rear rests a 3in LCD screen with a 921,000-dot resolution where users can run through a host of features such as panoramic shots, auto HDR and 3D stills. There's also 1080p video recording with a dedicated record button and stereo audio, as well as an HDMI port to connect directly to tellies.

The Nikon Coolpix P310 touches down in Blighty on 22 March, in either black or white versions for £299. ®