Kodak EasyShare V803 Digital Camera Review

by Karen M. Cheung
Published on September 21, 2007

Navigation
Intro	Testing / Performance
Components	Design / Layout
Modes	Control Options
Image Parameters	Connectivity / Extras
Overall Impressions	Conclusion
Sample Photos	Photo Gallery
Specs / Ratings

The Kodak EasyShare V803 fits into a growing market of gadgets that double as fashion accessories. The Kodak camera comes in eight colors and has standard point-and-shoot features including a 3x optical zoom lens and 2.5-inch LCD screen. Beyond the basic specs, the updated EasyShare camera has a sensitivity range up to 1600 ISO and a new Maintain Settings function that stores a user’s frequently used camera settings. The Kodak EasyShare V803 launched in January 2007 with a $199.95 introductory price.

Front (7.25)
The front of the Kodak EasyShare V803 features a silver extending lens covered by sliding metal doors with the printed text: “Kodak Retinar Aspheric All Glass Lens” and focal length information, “36-108mm (Equiv.) AF 3x Optical.” To the right side of the lens are two tiny holes for the microphone. The position of the microphone on the front of the camera rather than the top is to better record the subjects rather than the photographer’s voice. Next to the lens is the AF assist lamp, placed next to the moderately sized, off-center flash on the top left corner. Mid-way down is the Kodak brand logo in embossed silver. Toward the bottom left corner is the 8.0-megapixel count printed in silver text.

Back (7.75)
The back of the Kodak V803 shows off an interesting design that allows users to handle the camera the way gamers hold controllers. In the center is a 2.5-inch LCD monitor, surrounded by two metal control panels on either side. The right control panel possesses a nubby joystick in place of a four-way controller. Above the joystick is the zoom toggle to zoom in Shooting mode or magnify images during playback. The left panel features five capsule-shaped buttons for Flash, Delete, Menu, Review, and Kodak’s signature Share functions.

Right Side (7.5)
The right side of the Kodak V803 hides the AV port well, under a plastic hinged door that seals off the port. Most cameras AV ports are on the bottom or lower side of the camera body and are used to connect the camera to a TV set. The placement of the AV port isn’t standard practice, but it should not hinder the user from accessing the AV connection. The right side also possesses a tiny eyelet for a wrist strap.

Left Side (6.5)
The left side of the EasyShare camera holds the DC IN 5V jack for recharging the camera. Unfortunately the port lacks a cover, leaving it exposed to potential debris if stuffed in a pants pocket or left unprotected in a purse.

Top (7.75)
The top of the V803 has buttons for Favorites, Movie, Record, Power, and the shutter release button – each properly labeled with a graphic icon.

Bottom (7.0)
The bottom of the EasyShare point-and-shoot stores the memory card and lithium-ion battery in a dual media compartment under a sliding hinged door. In the center is the tripod socket and dock port. To the right is serial information and holes for the speaker, which are usually placed on the camera’s top or front.