Nikon's 3D matrix metering -- which the camera defaults to in full-program mode -- was designed to read light reflected off the film in the original Pronea. Unfortunately, the smaller capture size and different reflectivity of the CCD, which replaces the film, confound its operation. Hence, Kodak recommends using the center-weighted or spot metering, rather than the matrix metering.
The 330 can accommodate Type II or Type III memory cards, including CompactFlash cards, IBM Microdrives or PC card drives, though no storage media come with the camera. Our review unit included a 260MB Type III PC card drive. The 330's 32MB buffer let us shoot 1 frame per second without having to wait for a disk write. We used a card reader to transfer images from the 330 to our host PC, but there's also an IEEE 1394 port on the body.
An assortment of buttons and two display screens cover the back of the camera. A 1.8-inch colour LCD displays the camera's extensive setup menu, captured images, or exposure tools (tonal histogram and highlight). The other LCD provides access to numerous other exposure parameters.
Utilising all of the 330's options efficiently requires some study and practice, as there's much that can be adjusted. For those who want to hit the ground running, the camera's full program mode does a reasonable job. Once you're accustomed to the camera, it's easy to switch among its exposure modes (full-program, aperture- and shutter-priority and full manual), change ISO speeds (125 to 400 only), alter metering and auto focus parameters and otherwise customise the camera for your exact needs.
The 330 uses six AA-size batteries; Kodak recommends using the NiMH flavor. Battery life is between 150 and 200 shots per charge, although this drops when you're using the pop-up flash or LCD display a lot. For studio work, we found that the supplied AC adapter kept the 330 humming along without interruption. Kodak's software provides an efficient way to view thumbnails or individual images. It offers preset white balances for various colour temperatures and an easy method of setting a custom white balance that uses an eye-dropper-style tool. Another useful feature of the TWAIN module displays all the various exposure parameters for each image, including exposure and flash compensation, ISO speed, aperture, shutter speed, and much more.
Pro
- A digital Nikon for under AUS$10,000
- Lets photographers use their existing Nikon lenses and flashes
- Accepts a variety of storage media
- Good TWAIN module
- Provides good colour reproduction
Con
- Requires more attention than general consumer cameras
- Pop-up flash is fairly useless
- Has masked viewfinder, rather than WYSIWYG
- Matrix metering not accurate (due to CCD sensor size and reflectivity)
Price: RRP Under AU$10,000
Company: Fletcher
Ph: 9267 6846 (Ask for Digital department)
More Information: Kodak
Ph: 1300 659 097
Rating:
2%
4%
