Kodak CX7530 Review

Incorporating all of the features found on the EasyShare CX7430 , the CX7530 adds 5.0 megapixels of resolution, 32MB of internal memory and a 1.8-inch LCD display. It offers a variety of pre-programmed exposure modes and an Auto (point-n-shoot) mode allows new users to obtain high-quality results without a long learning process. As you turn the Mode dial from one setting to another, it briefly displays a message on the LCD, informing you of the selected Mode and what it's used for. This combination of automation and ease of use provides you with the ability to obtain good results in a wide range of shooting conditions.

The shooting performance of the CX7530 was very impressive for a camera in this class. In our testing, the delay between turning the camera on until capturing the first image averaged about 3.5 seconds (with flash.) Shutter lag when pre-focused was a fast 1/10 of a second and 4/10 of a second including auto focus. The shot to shot time averaged about 1.3 seconds between frames with the flash Off and about 1.8 seconds with the flash On. Shooting in Continuous mode, I was able to capture 5 images in about 1.4 seconds. The LCD viewfinder went blank during the continuous capture sequence; you need to use the optical viewfinder when taking a rapid sequence. All performance tests were done using a SanDisk Ultra II 512MB SD card, preview off, flash off, and Auto record mode (unless otherwise noted.) Times may vary depending on lighting conditions, media, camera setting, etc.

The Kodak Retinar 3X optical zoom lens has a 35mm-equivalent range of 34-102mm, giving you coverage from wide angle through telephoto focal lengths. At the 34mm end of the zoom range you'll have enough field of view for most interior and landscape shots, and at 102mm you'll be able to capture the details of distant subjects. The lens produced sharp images throughout its zoom range, with only slight barrel distortion at wide angle, and almost no pin cushioning at telephoto. The zoom is smooth, and makes no noticeable noise when extending the lens or during autofocus.

I was pleased with the overall image quality in BEST 5.0MP mode. Indoor flash portraits were well exposed, and skin tones appeared very natural. The flash range of up to 11.8 feet (at wide angle) won't illuminate large rooms, but is adequate for most interior shooting, especially group portraits. You can include yourself in these portraits thanks to the CX7530's tripod mount and self-timer. The flash also works extremely well for macro photography and "throttles down" to prevent over exposure at even the closest range. Although it has no focus-assist lamp, the CX7530 autofocus system was surprisingly effective in low ambient lighting conditions. However, the LCD was difficult to use in dim lighting; you'll appreciate the optical viewfinder in these conditions. When shooting outdoors, our test shots were sharp, well exposed and richly saturated. There was almost no visual noise in high contrast (open blue sky) areas, and very little in low contrast (shadow) areas, which is impressive for a camera in this class.

Bottom line - The EasyShare CX7530 is a great all around camera. Its 5.0 megapixels of resolution will allow you to create photo-quality 13x19-inch or larger prints, and its small size enables it to be carried in almost any size handbag. With a street price of ~$299, the CX7530 offers a great value. It makes a good choice for those wanting an easy to use camera that produces high-quality pictures. I think the CX7530 will be an excellent camera for family, business, and "tourist" users alike. Combine it with a EasyShare Printer Dock, and you'll have a quality digital system capable of capturing and printing that special "Kodak Moment."   If you don't need 5.0 megapixels of resolution, then check out the 4.0 megapixel CX7430, but with a street price of only $20 less, I would recommend purchasing the CX7530.