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 Kodak's
4-megapixel LS443 is so feature-rich and easy to use that it has the
potential to appeal to nearly anyone. Kodak also includes a docking station
that serves as a battery recharger and as an easy connection to the PC that
lets beginners upload shots to the computer. Working in conjunction with the
docking station, the EasyShare software enables you to easily print, e-mail,
organize, and edit pictures.
In testing, we were able to adjust everything from the white balance and
ISO settings to focus zones and exposure controls. Beginners can simply set
everything to automatic and snap away. Either way, the camera takes clear
pictures with true colors, and close-ups look particularly good.
However, taking quick action shots is virtually impossible because of the
camera's relatively slow reaction time. The delay between pressing the
button and the shutter release is long enough that we had to carefully
anticipate every shot, and the recovery time as the picture is processed
makes taking a quick follow-up shot impossible.
Unfortunately, the camera's aggressive compression scheme robs large
images of their quality. The LS443's highest-resolution setting yields
pictures with enormous dimensions that are squashed into 1 MB JPEG files,
resulting in a multitude of compression artifacts when images are viewed at
full size. The good news is that the large pictures look fine when scaled
down to smaller sizes. Unfortunately, Kodak doesn't include a low- or
no-compression option.
This compression does benefit this camera's target audience, though, as
it enables users to stuff more large pictures into a smaller amount of
storage space while also making it easier to e-mail the large pictures. But
there is a lot to like about the LS443, a great choice for those looking for
a 4-megapixel point-and-shoot camera. --T. Byrl Baker
Pros:
- Enough settings to satisfy power users, yet very easy to configure
- Internal memory doesn't take up a memory expansion slot
- Also expandable using Secure Digital and MultiMediaCard memory cards
- Included software and docking system make sharing pictures easy
Cons:
- Extreme compression degrades picture quality
- Relatively slow response and recovery times
Product Description
Kodak's EasyShare LS443 represents something new in the
world of digital cameras--it's the first 4-megapixel ultracompact aimed
directly at the point-and-shoot crowd. Its size and shape are appealing, and
the simplicity of its controls makes it a great choice for those who like to
take pictures but don't want to deal with the more technical aspects of
digital photography.
Optics and Resolution
The EasyShare LS443 has a 4-megapixel sensor that captures enough detail for
photos from 4 by 6 inches to 20 by 30 inches (poster size). It also features
a world-class Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon lens. Codeveloped by Kodak with
Schneider-Kreuznach, this 3x optical aspheric all-glass zoom lens provides
crisp close-ups. Get even closer to the action with the 3.3x digital zoom;
however, remember that digital zoom tends to reduce the sharpness and detail
of your image.
To compose your images, either use the traditional camera viewfinder or
the 1.8-inch LCD display (which is also used to review the shots you've
taken). Kodak's new indoor-outdoor LCD significantly reduces glare even when
in bright sunlight.
Storage and Transfer
With the 16 MB internal memory, you can store 12 pictures at the
"best" setting (4.0 megapixels) or 22 photos as the
"better" setting (2.2 megapixels). You can also expand the
EasyShare LS443's memory with optional memory cards from Secure Digital and
MultiMediaCard.
The included LS443 EasyShare dock allows you to transfer images from the
camera to your PC with one press of a button. The on-camera share button
also makes it simple to prepare images for e-mailing or printing. Just tag a
photo with the share button, then, when transferred to your PC, the tagged
pictures will be automatically printed or e-mailed to one of the 32 e-mail
addresses you can store right in your camera. And while the LS443 is docked,
its lithium-ion battery is being recharged--in three hours or less.
Movie Mode
In movie mode, the EasyShare LS443 captures video clips with sound. Most
cameras can only shoot for a limited amount of time (often 30 seconds)
before filling the buffer, but the LS443 lets you keep shooting as long as
you have memory available.
More Features
- Multizone autofocus with focus-assist illuminator
- Five scene modes: close-up, landscape, sport, night, and movie
- Automatic-orientation sensor rotates portrait mode shots
- Shutter speeds: 1/2 to 1/1,000 sec (automatic)
- TTL multipattern metering with center-weighted or center-spot options
Power, Size, and Contents
The camera is powered by a proprietary, rechargeable Kodak EasyShare
lithium-ion battery (included). It measures 4.3 by 2.4 by 1.8 inches and
weighs 7.9 ounces. This package includes the EasyShare LS443 digital camera
and camera dock, lithium-ion battery and AC adapter, USB and AV cables,
wrist strap, and CD-ROM with Kodak EasyShare imaging software and USB
drivers for Windows and Mac.
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