Kodak Easyshare P850 5.1 MP Digital Camera with 12x Image Stabilized Zoom

by Kodak

Product Details

Product Manual [6.70mb PDF]

• Product Dimensions: 7 x 6 x 5 inches ; 14.1 ounces
• Shipping Weight: 3 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B0009VU7TE
• Item model number: 1720614
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (57 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,826 in Camera & Photo (See Top 100 in Camera & Photo)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: May 2, 2006

Product Description

Manufacturer Description

The Kodak Easyshare P850 camera makes it easier than ever for amateur photographers to shoot like a professional. It features a 12x, 36 to 432 millimeter (35mm equivalent), image-stabilized, f2.8 to f3.7, Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon lens to get incredibly close to a scene while maintaining detail and sharpness.

Optical image stabilization, combined with the advanced, hybrid AF system (25 selectable points), provides a 2-stop advantage over non-Image Stabilized systems for better capturing subjects in low light for both still and video. For instance, if a particular scene called for at least a 1/500 shutter speed to "stop" the action under normal circumstances, the Easyshare P850 could deliver the same effect with a much slower 1/125 shutter speed, resulting in a bright yet crisp image. It also minimizes handheld camera shake at longer focal lengths, which is critical when not using a tripod--a scenario found on the sidelines of sporting events, on scenic hiking trails, and during everyday spontaneous picture-taking when carrying a stabilizing device is impractical.

The P850 model shares many elements of the more advanced P880, including 30-frame-per-second VGA video with single-frame still-extraction and trim/cut/splice/merge editing abilities. Thanks to cutting-edge Motion JPEG technology, record longer, TV-quality videos with sound--up to 80 continuous minutes depending on card capacity--while using less memory storage. Easyshare Software version 5 even makes combining, rotating, and adding music to video clips a breeze. The camera's bright, high-quality LCD and EVF simplify working with, viewing and sharing videos.

Other features include a unique hot shoe for extended lighting control; PASMC and extensive preset scene modes; multiple burst modes for action shooting; a live histogram; highlight/shadow clipping displays; RAW/TIFF/JPEG support; and lithium-ion battery. It is compatible with Easyshare printer docks, the Imagelink print system, and PictBridge technology.

A powerful zoom combined with precision optics

• Fast f2.8 to f8.0
• 12x (36mm to 432mm) all-glass Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon Optical Zoom Lens for extraordinary creative performance and sharp images
• Image stabilization for improved image quality at longer zoom ranges and slower shutter speeds

Image quality with exceptional sharpness and color

• 5.1-megapixel sensor for excellent resolution and prints up to 20 by 30 inches (50 by 75 centimeters)
• Capture stunning, accurate color with Kodak Color Science

Advanced video features for an excellent on-screen performance

• Capture VGA (640 x 480) video at 30 frames per second
• Up to 12x zoom with image stabilization during capture
• On-camera video editing, including trim, cut, split, merge, fast forward, and rewind
• Print 2 by 3-inch (5 by 7.5-centimeter) wallet-sized photos from video

Be in control with sophisticated camera features

• Hot shoe flash connector for enhanced, flexible lighting control
• Take advantage of the optional Kodak P20 Zoom Flash for extended flash range
• Responsive performance, including fast power up, click to click, and click to capture
• RAW file format for full creative flexibility
• View pictures on the high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) and 2.5-inch (6.4-centimeter) indoor/outdoor color LCD

Manual controls

• Exposure compensation: +/- 2.0 EV in 1/3 EV step
• Aperture: wide (f2.8 to f8.0) and tele (f3.7 to f8.0)
• Shutter speed: automatic: 1/2 to 1/1000 second; manual: 16 to 1/1000 second
• ISO equivalents: automatic: 50, 64, 80, 100, 125, 160, 200, 250, 320, 400, 800, selectable in PASM and custom modes
• Auto-focus: multi-zone, center-zone, 25 selectable points
• Exposure metering type-selectable zone AE (25 positions), multi-pattern AE, center-weighted AE, center-spot AE
• White balance: auto, daylight, tungsten, fluorescent, cloudy, open shade, sunset, click, custom 1 to 3
• Flash compensation: +/- 1.0 EV in 1/3 EV step
• Built-in flash: auto, fill, off, red-eye reduction with flash, algorithm, or both

Program auto, aperture priority, shutter priority, and custom modes

• Program mode (P): camera sets optimal shutter speed and aperture combination
• Aperture priority mode (A): you choose aperture, the camera sets shutter speed
• Shutter priority mode (S): you choose shutter speed, the camera sets aperture
• Three individual custom settings (C) allow you to create your own capture mode: The Kodak Easyshare P850 Zoom Digital Camera remembers your settings until you change them. Set your preference for PASM, picture quality, JPEG compression, resolution, color, and sharpness.

Histogram feature
Verify the exposure of your pictures using the histogram feature with highlight clipping.

Programmed scene modes

• Portrait modes: portrait, self-portrait, night portrait, backlight
• Landscape modes: landscape, night landscape, fireworks
• Bright scene modes: beach and snow
• Action modes: sports and children
• Close-up mode: flower
• Party mode: use for photos of people in indoor setting in lower light
• Text/Documents mode: for sharp text when photographing documents
• Manner/Museum mode: use when sound or flash is not desired
• Low-light modes: sunset and candlelight

3 color modes

• Color (high, low, natural)
• Sepia
• Black and white

Share your creations with one-touch simplicity
The Kodak Easyshare P850 Zoom Digital Camera is part of the Kodak Easyshare System, so sharing starts right on the back of your camera.

• Exclusive Share button lets you tag favorite pictures to print or e-mail later
• Favorites feature lets you share your on-camera collection at a moment's notice

Kodak Easyshare Software (included)

• Works seamlessly with Kodak Easyshare Cameras and Docks to enable one-button transferring and sharing
• The simple way to view, edit, organize, print, or view a slide show from your computer
• Exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature automatically adjusts the settings on your inkjet printer to give you traditional-quality photos when printing on Kodak Inkjet Photo Papers

What's in the Box:
Get shooting right away--the Kodak Easyshare P850 camera's ready to go:

• Kodak Easyshare P850 Zoom Digital Camera
• High-capacity Kodak Li-Ion Rechargeable Digital Camera Battery and Charger
• USB cable and audio/video cables
• Neckstrap
• Lens cap with strap
• Kodak Easyshare Software
• Getting started kit
• Custom camera insert for optional Kodak Easyshare Camera and Printer Docks
• 32 MB internal memory

Product Description

The Kodak EasyShare P850 is a digital-camera that combines point-&-shoot simplicity with pro quality. Capture images with clarity and detail at 5.1 MegaPixels of resolution. Share your creations with one-touch simplicity. The P850 offers a 12X (36 mm-432 mm - 35mm equivalent) Optical Zoom Lens providing an very long focal length, from wide-angle to telephoto for versatile creative performance and sharp images. Blurred images are a thing of the past since the P850 includes Image stabilization for improved image quality at longer zoom ranges and slower shutter speeds. Still image quality is up to 2608 x 1952 pixels and movie resolution up to 640 480 pixels at 30 fps with QuickTime compatibility. Contrast & Sharpness - high, normal, low Burst mode - Approx. 2 fps, maximum 12 images in standard JPEG mode at full resolution Time lapse burst mode - User-selectable time lapse (10 sec-24 intervals, 2-99 images) Exposure - Program mode (P) - Camera sets optimal shutter speed and aperture combination / Aperture priority mode (A) - Choose aperture, the camera sets shutter speed / Shutter priority mode (S) - Choose shutter speed, the camera sets aperture / Custom mode (C) - Allows you to create your own capture mode Auto and Manual Focus 2.5 inch LCD with adjustable brightness settings Shutter speed - Automatic at 1/2-1/4000 seconds, Manual at 16-1/4000 seconds Self-timer - 10 seconds, 2 seconds On-camera video editing 32MB Internal Memory / Slot accepts optional SD Memory Card PictBridge Compatible Dimensions - Width 4.3 Height 3.3 Depth 2.8 inches / Weight - 14.2 ounces Data transfer is Windows and Macintosh compatible EasyShare Dock is optional (not included)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

96 of 97 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The PERFECT CAMERA, October 4, 2005

By 

Elizabeth V. Brennan (Tampa, Florida) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Kodak Easyshare P850 5.1 MP Digital Camera with 12x Image Stabilized Zoom (Electronics)

This camera is AWESOME!! I recently purchased the Kodak P850 and have been very pleased with the camera - it's really cute too. The camera takes excellent pictures and is a steal at $499. I've had numerous compact cameras (including Kodak) but they all seem to deliver the same picture quality .. great pictures under ideal conditions - but when the conditions are not perfect, Compact digital camera shots are unacceptable. This camera is just the right size and is easy to handle. The 12X zoom makes it difficult to ever pick up a 3X camera again !! The camera has little if no shutter lag making that impossible shot easy to take. It is one of the very few camera's on the market that allows you to zoom during video - this is a very desirable feature. The Auto setting "glams" all pictures, making them look their best. But sometimes you don't want to "glam" your pictures .. candlelight conditions, etc - that's when you use one of the many "scene" modes. You tell the camera your present "scene" and it takes the picture without over dramatizing it (like the previous Kodak's did). The 2.5" LCD screen is also the perfect size - the indoor/outdoor display enables you to view pictures under all lighting conditions. The battery life is also generous, I've been playing with it for 2 weeks and still have not had to charge the batteries. Oh and the best thing about this camera is something called "Image Stabilization", this basically means no more blurry pictures - even at High Zoom !! If you buy this camera - you won't regret it. In the future the Digital Camera's and Camcorder will merge and become one - this Camera may have achieved that since it takes excellent video.
PROS:
* High Optical Zoom - 12X
* High Quality Lens
* 2.5" LCD Display
* Zoom during Video
* Image Stabilization Technology - no blurry pictures
* No shutter lag.

CONS:
* Zoom Motor Noise heard during Video playback
* Camera comes with no case

Overal Rating: 5 STARS
RECOMMENDED BUY: YES

78 of 80 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Kodak does it again...!!, September 15, 2005

By 

R. Ozer "Family of 4 Purchaser" (Newton, MA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Kodak Easyshare P850 5.1 MP Digital Camera with 12x Image Stabilized Zoom (Electronics)

So glad this was finally hit the market. I've been a loyal Kodak customer since digital cameras hit the market. I've owned the DC280 and then upgraded to the DX6490 and have been very satisfied. So, with its 10X and other great features, you'd wonder why someone would look to migrate from the DX6490 to the P850. My gripe with the DX6490 is that it is difficult to get clean pictures when using the maximum zoom due to camera shake AND I really want a camera that takes great video...320 x 240 pixels at 20 fps is adequate but not great. Well, the P850 does it all. With image stabilization, camera shake is not an issue...and the video quality is surperb...the 30 fps at 640 x 480 in a compressed format is terrific. And you can also use the zoom during movie mode which is a huge improvement.

I've had the DC280, the DX6490 and now this camera...what I appreciate most is that Kodak has maintained its outstanding menu user interface across all models. As I've migrated up, the learning curve has been minimal and I was able to use the camera's advanced features immediately.

My only disappointment with Kodak is that it purchased Ofoto instead of Shutterfly...Shutterfly is a far superior platform and I would have preferred the EasyShare integration with that platform instead of the other. Oh well...that's what Adobe Photoshop is for! Enjoy.

42 of 42 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I Like This Camera!!!!, November 22, 2005

By 

S. Reddick "sredd68" (Newark, NJ United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Kodak Easyshare P850 5.1 MP Digital Camera with 12x Image Stabilized Zoom (Electronics)

First off let me say that the Kodak P850 is not an upgrade to the Z/DX7590 in my opinion. It is in a different product line. So please don't compare one to another. The P850 is a camera made for enthusiasts that like to have control from set-up to shutter press to PP (post-processing). This camera is better in its P,A,S,M & C modes than Auto and Scene modes. That being said here are my lists of positives and negatives:

Positves: Image Stabilization, RAW and Tiff modes, Manual Focus, Improved Flash w/ increased range, 12x optical zoom, Slightly wider angle than the DX/Z7590, Customizable White Balance, Multiple ISO ranges from 50 to 800, more detail (bigger jpeg files=less compression), Hot flash shoe


Negatives: Tends to over-expose in AUTO mode, hunts in focus in Macro mode, certain scene and low-light conditions, somewhat slow write for RAW and Tiff files, No burst mode for RAW and Tiff modes, different jog wheel operation, No exposure compensation in Auto and Scene modes, ISO 800 only available in 1.2 megapixel setting, no manual flash release lever.

Most of the negatives can be corrected with a firmware upgrade that is being worked on now, according to a Kodak representative in an email reply, and should be released shortly.

Now that's out of the way...the picture quality is great, the camera feels good in my hands, it takes all of the accessories made for the DX/Z7590 and the ability to add an external flash that syncs with the camera settings. I would recommend this camera to anyone that likes to work the camera, instead of letting the camera do all the work. If you already own a DX/Z7590 you really don't need this camera unless you want the hot shoe, IS, RAW and Tiff modes, better overall low-light and the PictBridge capabilities. IF you do, then this is the camera for you. You can find this camera cheaper than just about any of the other Ultra Zooms.

***EDIT*** Kodak has recently released a firmware upgrade for this camera that decreases shutter lag, improves the auto focus and exposure and adds a pixel remapping program to remove any malfunctioning pixels on the sensor. I upgraded mine and I highly recommend anyone that owns this camera to do the same. It makes a world of difference in its operation.