Here is a little more details on how the BSS works:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2002_...nikon5700.html

The models prior to Coolpix 8400/8800 including 5700 can use most of the Nikon Speedlights before introduction of i-TTL. So experimenting with multi-flash photography is very low cost with these cameras and can be a lot of fun.

If you want a wider lens, the Coolpix 5000 has almost identical feature set and differ only in the lens.