Home > Consumer Reviews > Kodak Z740 Zoom Digital Camera [5MP, 10 x Optical Zoom]

I have just purchased one of these, after reviewing SLR cameras, and after narrowing it down, chose this one. The zoom (optical & digital) are excellent, and I am impressed by the quality. The battery it came with (lithium non-rechargeable) has lasted over 200 photos, which I was very pleased with, as digital cameras usually eat batteries. It also takes normal / rechargable 2 AA batteries, a great plus. The only slight negative (hence 4 stars) is there is a thumb lever thing (in the middle of the dial) on the back which is a bit awkward to control, but other than that I would definately recommend this camera.

Having been used to Olympus and Canon EOS SLR technology over many years I sought a low-cost digital camera to supplement other equipment rather than replace it. However, I have found that the Kodak Z740 is likely to become my camera of choice not least for its simplicity, light-weight and accuracy. The scene modes make the most of the camera's capabilities and appear to be well tuned to the preset subjects. Of most interest to me was a unit which would provide me with accurate control over depth of field for portraiture and again I have not been disappointed at all. Not only does the portrait mode perform well but if we add into the equation the ability to switch to manual and then additionally control exposure metering between three options as well as focus zoning, the overall package is excellent. Try using center-spot metering combined with center zone focusing for some truly stunning vibrant portraits. Having just ventured into the falling snow I shot below recommended temperatures and with a damp camera unit and still obtained excellent results. With regards battery usage I have managed to get over 200 shots, with the flash being used 70 per cent of the time, from one pair of Mignon Ni-MH 2400 mAh rechargeable batteries. By all accounts this is superb performance. In my opinion you would be well advised to purchase 2400 mAh rechargeables for any heavy flash work. Take notice of Kodak's documentation: never use Alkaline batteries!! So, would I recommend this camera? Absolutely! It represents tremendous value, portability and performance. Buy it, you won't be disappointed.

As an ex-pro I thought that I would never buy a Kodak camera! It is a real gem. Amazing definition of our little dogs nose, every little hair and blemish. Nice big screen but I still prefer viewfinders. Versatile and easy to use features acquired from a turn-disc with announcements on screen rather than scrolling through menus. Amazing battery life,light, not too big but not a pocket model. Nearly bought a Fuji Fine Pix at £200, this Kodak camera is one of the best small cameras I have ever owned, just can't put it down!

This camera really is the business. It does exactly what it says, and is everything and more than can be expected. Amazon were great as always, I ordered the camera on friday afternoon and recieved it Saturday morning. I then spent the rest of the day trying to take a bad photo, but was struggling. I took photos of dogs running, and the definition of their fur was fantastic. The optical zoom is fantastic and no detail is lost, and I was also pleasantly surprised with the digital zoom. I have had a 5mp digital camera before but this is in its own league. I would definatley recomend it to first time buyers who just want to point and shoot, but this camera also allows more advanced users to adjust the manual settings for optimum photos. The only bad point to this camera is that it is slightly bigger than most and probably wont fit into your pocket, but is definatly worth carrying a bag round all day to get the perfect photo.

I have had several Digital cameras and SLR's. I am an ex Pro.My Last Camera was a 5 Megapixel Practika which I liked.
However this kodak beats it hands down, picture quality is stunning. The only complaint I have is the USB cable was a very dangerous tight fit, and could damage the camera. I got on to Kodak 2 weeks ago. They said they would sort it, I am still waiting after 2 calls. I have now bought a card reader. So far as the camera itself goes BUY iT. It is comfortable to hold, very easy to use.