Kodak EasyShare Z980: Review

Posted to Digital Cameras 2010-03-28

Kodak EasyShare Z980 review:

The 12 megapixel, Kodak EasyShare Z980 digital camera has a 26mm wide angle lens which is good for broadening the visible area of your shot. In addition, it has an included detachable vertical shutter release, which not only adds to the conveniently horizontal release but gives the capability to shoot vertically as well.

A Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon, 24x optical zoom lens provides the magnification capabilities to give a crisp quality to shots that are taken at a distance. Image stabilization assists the user in creating steadier shots by allowing the camera to minimize any shaking that is taking place. Additional improvements upon earlier models include an increase in the click to capture speed which in the EasyShare Z980 is 0.2 seconds from click time to shot capture. Kodak has included a one year warranty with the unit.

Rating:

3.6 out of 5

Features

The 3 inch high resolution display on the back of the camera has 5 different levels of brightness to adjust to the current light that is available. Face priority auto focusing as well as light assisted auto focusing features of the Z980 will help novice photographers achieve a better picture, though these options can be turned off for more control. Flash options include red-eye reduction, while pre built shooting modes such as Smart Capture, sport, portrait and panorama will also help the user not get lost in the wealth of menu functions and photo options that digital cameras now have.

Ergonomics

A Z980 will weight around 14.6 ounces without the SD card or battery installed. Connection to your PC or MAC is achieved through USB 2.0 interface included on the camera. Measurements of the unit are 3.5 inches wide, 4.9 inches high and 4.1 inches deep making it more cumbersome than other compact digital camera. PictBridge enabled capability is available, whilst the included Neck strap and previously mentioned detachable vertical grip will mean that camera operation and functions are easily accessible.

Summary

With its size being a bit of a hindrance, the Z980 manages to provide enough features to make it an attractive camera. The zoom range is the most that can be found without moving up into a lower end DSLR camera, and the click to capture speed will give a more responsive feel to photos as well. If size is not a problem, image quality and shutter response times, along with zoom capabilities make the Z980 a good choice.

Pros

Detachable vertical grip
24 times optical zoom range
HD movie capture
0.2 second click to capture

Cons

Bulkier than average zoom compact cameras