The eight-megapixel, 5.8x optical zoom Kodak Easyshare P880 is the most serious camera in Kodak’s range, with looks and chunky build to match; it’s basically a baby SLR.
The P880 lens’ 24mm wide-angle setting will appeal to group portrait or landscape photographers, while the ability to alter the focus or zoom manually rather than pressing a button and waiting for it to change will please those used to older film cameras. With extras include a TV-quality video mode that allows full use of the zoom, a reasonably sized 2.5in display, plus the ability to save maximum-quality unprocessed RAW images alongside common JPEGs. The P880 powers up in around a second and, as enthusiasts would expect, it allows you to manually tweak the camera’s settings including the speed at which it takes an image (shutter speed) and the amount of light it lets reach the sensor (aperture). It can also save a personalised set-up so it can be recalled next time you switch on. There is also the familiar range of pre-programmed scene modes, though its Program mode in which it automatically selects the best combination is a reliable fallback, capable of picking up fine detail like dust on a jar lid.
Overall, it’s one of the nearest experiences you’ll get to owning an SLR without actually buying one.