One area where most consumer-level digital cameras have lagged is in their ability to create wide-angle shots. Most of them include a zoom lens, but almost none can handle wide-angle photos, too. Kodak has fixed this problem by including two lenses with its EasyShare V570 -- a 5X optical zoom lens and an ultra-wide angle lens.

The wide-angle lens is a handy addition to this digital camera, and it's a feature that -- after you use it for a while -- you'll want it in every digital camera you own. The two lenses produce outstanding results, both outdoors and indoors. The EasyShare V570 shoots at 5.0 megapixels of resolution, which is plenty for creating sharp prints up to 20x30 inches, if the photos are shot under good lighting conditions.

This dual-lens configuration gives the EasyShare V570 a unique look, with one lens placed above the other on the front of the digital camera body. The EasyShare V570 is an ultra-thin model, measuring only 0.8 inches in thickness. Because of the layout of this digital camera's controls, you will definitely want to try the EasyShare V570 before you buy it; it won't be comfortable for everyone to use.

The EasyShare V570's response times are slightly above average. You can shoot your first photo 2-3 seconds after pressing the power button. Shutter lag is minimal, registering less than half a second. You can shoot four photos in a little more than 1 second in continuous-shot mode.

This digital camera lives up to its EasyShare name. Kodak designed the EasyShare V570 and its fully automatic mode with beginning photographers in mind. You'll find a few manual features on this model, but nothing beyond the basics.

You can perform some photo editing directly on the digital camera, including photo rotation and cropping. Managing your photo collection is even easier with the included docking station. When used with the docking station, the EasyShare V570's 2.5-inch LCD can run a slide show of your photos. The LCD, which also serves as the EasyShare V570's viewfinder, is one of the best available on a digital camera in this price range, displaying sharp, bright images, regardless of the exterior lighting.

Kodak has created a unique digital camera in the EasyShare V570 -- an outstanding option for beginning to intermediate photographers.


Pros: Wide-angle lens is handy feature, extremely easy to use, model is unique in consumer market, 2.5-inch LCD is sharp and bright
Cons: Add-on components can be pricey, camera has no viewfinder, few manual features

Warranty
1 year