Digital cameras are quickly moving from the realm of the novel to the realm of the practical. Compact and able to capture a decent picture, the latest digital cameras have a lot to offer. The question remains, how do they perform in the field?
We recently reviewed two of the latest digital cameras from Kodak - the DC240 and the DC280. Here's what we found.
Point and click
Both cameras were easy to use, and offered a number of choices when capturing images. We found that outdoor lighting seemed to produce better shots than the indoor photos. Colour quality was high, and the overall photo quality was impressive.
For businesses looking to use the final images in print the DC280 offered higher resolution capture than the DC240 and a higher sensor resolution, both of which enables larger prints. The focus range on the DC280 also allowed for close-up focussing in the 0.25m - 0.5m range.
Each camera was able to store a decent number of high resolution pictures - between 20 and 30 - before the memory card was filled. Of course a nice feature of all digital cameras is the ability to selectively keep or delete images as you take them.
Batteries did drain at a rapid rate, which made outings with the camera restrictive. Not only were extra batteries needed, but without a laptop or extra memory discs, it was impossible to download pictures in order to free up the memory card. If you're considering this camera, count in an investment in several memory cards, along with several packages of rechargable batteries and careful management of your recharger.
The focus adjusted itself automatically, which is handy when you're not a pro. For the advanced user wanting to take more artsy shots, the option of manually focusing the camera will be missed. One reviewer was irritated by the fact that her view-finder was off-centre, which made it very difficult for her to take close-ups without using the digital display on the back. Distance shots with the same camera were fine.
Transfering the photos through a USB port posed no problems. When we tried to transfer photos to a computer without this port it was doable .. but a headache to accomplish. If you're planning on investing in a high resolution, Kodak digital camera, the necessary ports - if you don't have them already - will be a worthwhile investment.
When comparing the Kodak to another camera she was familliar with, the Sony MVC- FD83 digital camera, one reviewer commented that the Kodak felt more comfortable as it is smaller and more like a camera. However, with the Sony it was easier to get pictures into a computer if you lacked the necessary USB connection.
The current (May 2000) suggested retail price is $1199.00 for the DC280 and $899.00 for the DC 240.
