By Kodak
It’s true, Kodak has taken
photography to the next level with the introduction of the Kodak EasyShare Z915
digital camera. The camera combines the simplicity that an amateur looks for
and the performance that professionals yearn for. The Z915 is unlike many other
compact digital cameras on the
market in select areas. The impressive 10x optical zoom uses optical image
stabilization to guarantee long range shots and sharper pictures. The camera
also provides for a 10 megapixel CCD sensor giving users the freedom to
customize prints and not sacrificing the quality. The only major drawback was
the 2.5inch LCD display which is at most adequate, but for a camera of that
size, disproportional. On the other hand, the display is significantly color
accurate and adjusts well to changes in the external light. It has an
impressive 230,000 dot display, but like similar cameras, is no match from the
sun’s glare. Being said, the Z915 outperformed many other cameras in indoor and
low lit settings, but was lacking for use in the outdoors.
In addition, I found
the Kodak Smart Capture feature and the Perfect Touch processor to be a
highlight of the camera, ensuring better pictures for less experienced
photographers. Kodak also came through on the organization of the display
interface. It was easy to search through the many features using the designated
tabs and pages to take full advantage of what it has to offer. These features
include but are not limited to, creating multimedia slideshows, adding text
text or sound to captured pictures, selecting various color and scene modes, as
well as PASM. PASM is an acronym for program, aperture, shutter priority, and
manual mode which gives either the camera or users control over the shutter
speed and aperture. For example, the program mode enables the camera to set the
aperture and the shutter speed, on the other hand, the manual mode gives you
total control. The two other modes allow you to set either the aperture or
shutter speed, which ever you prefer. The camera also has a large 32MB internal
memory, which for most compact cameras is unheard of. If 32MB is not enough, it
was simple enough to pop in an SD card and switch to the external memory.
The
camera powering options are standard but convenient, use either 2x AA
rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. Personally I prefer using batteries
specifically in cameras, making it easier to travel with. Aesthetically, the
camera is appealing for some but not all. When I hear the words compact camera,
I visualize one that fits nicely in your pocket. But then again, how can a
camera with a 10x zoom and features in all be pocket sized. Overall the camera
has a good weight, sturdy design, and a professional look for a retailer’s
price. The camera is a great steal at a significantly reduced price of 130
dollars. Honestly, you can’t find a better camera for such a low price, and you
would be foolish to think otherwise.
Technical Specifications:
10x Optical Zoom
10 Megapixel
<.03s Click-to-Capture Speed
32 MB Internal Memory
16-1/1250s-16-1/1000s Shutter
Speed
Box Contents:
Kodak Easyshare Z915 Digital
Camera
2x AA Kodak Alkaline Batteries
USB Cable
Wrist Strap
User’s Guide
EasyShare Software