Kodak EasyShare Z1285 Digital Camera Review
In this review we’ll take a look at another Kodak EasyShare Digital Camera, the Kodak Z1285. Kodak cameras are frequently being discounted and the question is to they perform well or are they being discounted for a reason? Let’s see what we can find out about this Digital Camera.
Review Continued Below…
We’ll begin by taking a quick glance at the features of the Kodak Z1285. It’s a 12MP digital camera that can take both 720p and 1080i HD formats in still photos and record 720p30 HD video. It has a 5x optical zoom Schneider-Kreuznach lens although the stabilization is digital. On paper, at least, the specs are fantastic for a digital camera in this price range. However, like with some other Kodak digital cameras I’ve reviewed, the Kodak Z1285 isn’t without it’s warts.
The biggest fault of the Kodak Z1285, in my opinion, is the lack of a viewfinder. I find this essential for properly framing shots, especially at night or low light situations. Another weak point that’s been widely reported is that the LCD screen used on the Kodak Z1285 doesn’t perform well under certain conditions as compared to other brands of digital cameras in the same price range.
As far as photo quality goes, the Kodak Z1285 seems to be better than some of its cousins. It shows steady improvement over the older Kodak models. One thing to note is the close-up macro mode on this camera has gotten a few jeers so if you plan to take close-ups this might not be the camera for you.
One thing that you should be aware of before purchasing the Kodak Z1285 is that you will need to also purchase some additional gear to get the most out of this digital camera. Like other Kodak digital cameras the Kodak Z1285 eats batteries quickly. You should add rechargeable batteries to your shopping cart. Also, the Kodak Z1285 only comes with 64MB internal memory, about 16 pictures worth, so you should add a 2GB or higher SD memory card to your list as well.
Bottom line, the Kodak Z1285 digital camera is probably worth what you’ll pay for it if you catch it at a good discount price. Just be aware of its inherent limitations due to its cost cutting compromises.
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I have not yet entered the digital camera era. I have heard my friends complaining of the batteries being used up quickly and not enough memory. I may stay away for yet another little while…waiting for the next big breakthrough in digital camera technology.
We are looking at buying cheap digital cameras for our oldest two children, and it really is intensely confusing. There are so many models and so many price points, that it is almost impossible for us to make a choice. The Z1285 looks like it might be a bit spendy for a camera for our kids, but the e-mail I received today from PC Mac also had some suggestions for good buys at the lower end of the digital camera market. Any other suggestions for low-end digital cameras, preferably ones that are quite sturdy and can survive being thrown in kids backpacks, would be more than welcome.
Hi Waterbed,
I’ve been buying the really cheap $20 Wal-Mart digital cameras for my son to take to scout camp and the like. All have gotten broken or lost rather quickly so I doubt I’m really saving money that way although I feel better about a $20 camera getting destroyed or misplaced than I do a $100 one.
I’ve been looking into some durable construction digital cameras so I may do a review of some of them soon.
That makes a lot of sense and yes, that’s exactly the sort of scenario I’m talking about … two of my kids are at sleepaway camp right now, and I know they’d have loved to take a camera but I’m unwilling to risk the family one getting destroyed.
Frank, that makes a lot of sense. My daughter heads to girl scout camp next week and I’m going to follow your advice and get her a Target cheapy (sorry, just can’t do WalMart … I’m a Target gal through and through!)