Kodak Reviews

The only problem I had with it was the flash crapped out during a family get-together. It was a little embarrasing, especially since it produced a loud "bang" noise when it happened. I have since had that issue resolved.

However, the feature I'm most interested in is not the camera, but the possiblity of uploading the images to my computer using the FD300 device Kodak produces. This camera provides great looking pictures on a tactile medium, and also provides a means to upload digital images to my home computer. Once the film cartridge is processed I can use it to put those pictures on my computer. I have yet to try the FD300, but I'm anxious to use one.

Another advantage of this camera is that the flash doesn't suck down the battery power. I've taken at least 100 pictures with the flash and I'm using the same battery I had three years ago.

The major disadvantage of this camera is that it ONLY uses Kodak Advantix film, which comes in a cartridge and loads automatically when you pop it in. It's excellent film and a hell of a lot better than Fuji (even if more expensive). The disadvantage is that a lot of stores outside the U.S. simply don't carry it. In Budapest last summer, I checked in four different photo shops and nobody had it, so stock up before you leave. Kodak Advantix sometimes comes in tube-form, but unless you've got the version that comes in a cartridge, you can't use this camera. Additionally, you can't remove the cartridge in the middle of a roll -- so if you want to switch back and forth between color and black-and-white, you've got to buy two separate cameras.

***

Usually, I use disposable camera's. Then I saw this thing and grabbed one. I love it.

It has two cool features. Panoramic format and self timer.

The panoramic pictures look great. If your camera won't take them, then you are missing out. Take a few panoramic pictures and you will be hooked. It is so nice to be able to include tons of stuff in a picture. Sitting at a dinner table, it was easy to get both sides of the table--amazing. Landscapes are obvious, but is it is good for so much more. I think you will find yourself using this feature more times than not.

The self timer is very nice and a handy feature that cheaper cameras don't have. I have to have a self timer. It is essential for those situations where you want to get everyone in the picture.

I also like the film format. Drop it in and it takes care of itself. There is a tripod mount on the bottom for more position control.

Very easy to use, great pictures, cheap price. Try it you will like it.

Conrad B. Senior

***

Cons: Unsophisticated focus means that quite a few pictures are not quite crisp; automatic flash makes it impossible to photograph anything but close-ups in low-light conditions - for instance, photos of the final red rays of sunset won't come out.

I used this camera on several trips to Europe, and although I wasn't happy with the way some (say, 15%) of the pictures came out, I would never have taken most of them with my bulky 35mmm manual focus camera. So this camera is a good choice for travelling, especially if you want some pictures, but don't want to go to a lot of trouble taking them.

all i would say is that, while the camera itself is very inexpensive, and well worth it, the film and especially developing are noticeably costlier than with standard 35mm film