The Nikon Lite Touch Zoom 120ED is interesting because it is a Nikon Lite Touch zoom with ED-glass prestige in the name. It has its own place among compact 35mm cameras rather than feeling like a generic point-and-shoot.

The distinctive detail is that ED glass is the design flex here: Nikon brought lens-tech language from its serious optics into a pocket zoom. That gives the camera a more memorable personality and helps shoppers understand why this model is different from the next compact on the shelf.

It is best for travel, portraits and sharper-looking daylight details. In practical terms, it is the sort of camera you choose when you want to finish rolls and make real photographs, not just collect a famous name.

A useful tip is to the 120mm end is useful, but give it light. Like most compact film cameras, it performs best when you work with its strengths instead of forcing it into every situation.

Buy the Nikon Lite Touch Zoom 120ED if its particular mix of size, handling and personality matches the way you want to shoot. It uses standard 35mm film, and this camera is tested by Analogue Amsterdam before sale with a 2-month warranty.