Kodak EasyShare V603

Value
With a price of $299 MSRP, the Kodak EasyShare V603 is certainly a viable option considering the 6.1 MP CCD, the 2.5-inch 230,000 pixel LCD screen, the easy control system and the menu structure that is intuitive and simple to access and navigate. The camera does seem to suffer for space, choosing to diminish the size of the controls in an attempt to continue decreasing overall camera size.

The only major concern with this camera is the lack of manual control, for users who will discover over time that they are ready to move beyond auto mode. At this point the EasyShare system falters, since it relies on users not wanting to increase their control or shooting knowledge. If at all concerned about the lack of manual controls, it would be wise to consider other manufacturers. Kodak cameras are easy because they are stripped-down and simple, which at some point becomes more of a hindrance than a help.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters - This camera is a shoe-in for the point-and-shoot market, providing a basic auto mode, a couple of quasi-manual controls and a plethora of preset shooting modes to cover nearly every occasion.

Budget Consumers - The V603 is looking to retail for $299 MSRP, so the budget consumer could definitely consider this camera if a full auto mode is wanted and some personal style is craved in your point-and-shoot.

Gadget Freaks - Although the automatically adjusting Perfect Touch system is interesting, I’m pretty sure the gadget freak would snub it for being too automatic or not revolutionary enough.

Manual Control Freaks - Well, there is exposure and ISO adjustments, but that isn’t going to make up for the lack of manual control options.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists - There wouldn’t be a reason for the pro or serious hobbyist to examine the V603, not even as a pocket camera. It just doesn’t have the mechanics to make the pro glance twice.