The 10.1-million-pixel Nikon 1 J2 is due out on 6 September priced £499.99 in a kit that includes a 10-30mm lens.

The new compact system camera boasts a 3in, 921,000-dot resolution, LCD screen. Nikon’s current J1 model features a 460,000-dot display.

The Nikon 1 J2 will debut alongside a new Nikkor 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6
lens, priced £179.99, and an optional waterproof case (WP-N1), the price
of which is yet to be confirmed.

Rotation of the new lens will allow the camera to be switched on, while retracting it turns the camera off, according to Nikon.

The size and weight of the J2 is on a par with the J1.

However, the J2’s dials and other controls are larger than those on its predecessor, ‘making them easier to see and enabling smoother operation’, claims Nikon USA.

Nikon 1 UK product manager Simon Iddon said: ‘Keen photographers will enjoy using the Motion Snapshot and Smart Photo Selector to explore new ways of taking and sharing images.

‘We’ve also added new intuitive features like Creative Mode – sure to appeal to compact camera upgraders and DSLR users looking for something more portable with artistic potential.’

The Creative Mode, accessible via a dedicated button, allows the user to apply settings and effects, such as Soft Filter, and preview the image before capturing the shot.

Creative options are also expected to include Night Landscape, Night Portrait, Backlighting, Easy Panorama, Miniature Effect, Selective Colour and four exposure modes (prior to shooting).

In the UK, the new lens will be available in a choice of black or white, while the J2 camera will come in six colours: black, white, silver, red, pink and orange.

The Smart Photo Selector – also featured in the Nikon 1 J1 and V1 models – captures 20 high-resolution images ‘at high-speed’ and automatically selects the five best shots based on facial expressions, composition and focus.

In a statement Nikon added: ‘It then displays the best image… If you are not happy with the shot, the camera will suggest other images to choose from, meaning you’ll never take a bad picture again.’