| Like |
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- Great viewfinder resolution
- Optical image stabilization
- Great price
- Lots of movie editing features
- Hot shoe
- Cool time lapse mode
- Nice software package
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| Dislikes |
|
- Marginal image quality
- Poor color reproduction
- Rubber surfaces attract dust and hair
- Poor LCD resolution
- Built-in flash casts uneven light
- Limited ISO range for enthusiasts
|
Conclusion
On the spec sheet, this digital camera looks great. It has a 12x optically stabilized Schneider-Kreuznach zoom lens, full manual controls and custom modes, a built-in flash unit and a hot shoe, and a 2.5-inch LCD screen. Granted, many of its components on the SLR-shaped body are very nice. The 5.1-megapixel Kodak EasyShare P850 has a large cushy viewfinder with resolution that is better than most of its competitors. Its stabilization system keeps video looking smooth even when utilizing the long lens while recording. There are lots of movie editing features that allow users to save only what they want. The list of great features coupled with the low $299 price tag does sound very inviting. But are you buying the specs or the pictures that will come from the camera? If beautiful pictures are desired, pass up this model. Even with all the manual modes and components, the Kodak EasyShare P850 skimps on its inner workings. The color reproduction isn’t up to par with compact models – and this is supposed to be the Performance series! There is noticeable shutter lag and the built-in flash casts an eerily uneven light that is reminiscent of the Blair Witch Project’s now infamous cover shot. Overall, the P850 can take decent pictures in bright light but its indoor shots are just as scary and amateur looking as the Blair Witch's cover art.
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