[CES 2009] Kodak’s Z980 – 24X Optical Zoom On A $400 Camera

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kodak z980

By David Ponce

That headline pretty much sums up why I’m writing about this camera. Kodak’s Z980 is nice looking, but it is yet another one of those bulky pieces of kit meant to make you feel like you’re holding a DSLR, when this is really nothing of the sort. I won’t get into why this is the case, if you’re into photography, you should know. But the $400 Z980 does have one redeeming feature: 24X optical zoom. At that price point, it’s not half bad. And it’s 12MP, in case you want to know.

There’s a bunch of other features, and it looks like an ok camera. They’re all listed in the partial press release, which I’ve pasted, you guessed it, after the jump.

Oh yeah, it’s available “spring ’09”.

Rochester, NY, January 8, 2009 — Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today announced new additions to its digital camera line, led by the high-zoom KODAK Z980 Digital Camera, featuring outstanding control and Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature that consistently delivers high quality images.

Featuring a wealth of power and versatility, the KODAK Z980 Digital Camera offers a 26 mm wide angle, professional quality, 24X image stabilized optical zoom lens, a vertical shutter release and a hot shoe, all at an affordable price.

The Z980 enables serious photographers to easily handle both long-distance and wide-angle shots, and boasts Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature, which automatically adjusts the camera’s settings to deliver brilliant images automatically.

“The Z980 is an ideal camera for photographers looking to do more and get more from their digital camera,” said John Blake, General Manager Digital Capture and Devices, Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. “The versatile lens, combined with our exclusive Smart Capture feature, lets consumers shoot great pictures in any setting — from daylight to night or from close-ups to landscapes, the camera makes adjustments automatically.”

The new KODAK Z980 Digital Camera offers:
• Kodak’s exclusive Smart Capture feature, which analyzes scenes and adjusts camera settings to deliver beautiful pictures more often;
• 26 mm wide angle/24X SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON Image Stabilized Optical Zoom Lens;
• HD picture and video capture;
• Vertical shutter release and detachable vertical grip, for greater comfort and control when shooting scenes vertically;
• Hot shoe for the optional KODAK P20 flash;
• 12 MP for prints up to 30”x40”;
• Bright and detail-rich 3-inch indoor/outdoor color display;
• Compatible with KODAK SDHC/SD Memory Cards;
• Available at US$399.95 MSRP from Spring, 2009.

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