Testing / Performance

The same results are depicted in the next chart, which shows each color’s error more blatantly. The square is the original color tile from the GretagMacbeth chart; the circle is the color produced by the Kodak EasyShare C340. The line between these two shapes is the color error, so the longer it is the more erroneous the particular color.

The Kodak EasyShare C340 received an overall color score of 6.69, which is decent but falls far short of the Kodak Z-series models that scored in the 10s. The EasyShare C340 exaggerated many of the colors and over-saturated its general palate by 26.3 percent. The mean color error was 10.6, which reflects the slight disappointment in these color scores.  **Still Life Scene
Below is a shot of our still life scene recorded with the Kodak EasyShare C340.  Click on the image above to view a full resolution version (CAUTION: the linked file is very large!) Resolution / Sharpness (3.44)**Many consumers consider resolution as one of the main selling points of a camera because it largely determines the quality and size of prints. We tested the Kodak C340 by taking several exposures of an industry standard resolution chart in our well lit studio setup. We uploaded these images into Imatest software, which evaluated the resolution and sharpness of the images and determined an actual pixel count in the files. When digital cameras score within 70 percent of their advertised pixel count, we consider them "good." Within 80 percent is "very good" and within 90 percent is rare and "excellent."

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Click on the chart above to view full size image](https://reviewed.usatoday.com/cameras/viewer.php?picture=C340-ResCH-LG.jpg )

We shot the images at several focal lengths and apertures, but the best results came from the 13.5mm focal length and an aperture of f/4.1. The Kodak EasyShare C340 uses 3.44 of its advertised 5 effective megapixels, which is just short of a "good" designation at 69 percent. This isn’t a big surprise, although it is slightly disappointing. We tested the Kodak C360 and came up with similar results: it captured 68 percent of its advertised effective pixel count. This score will suffice for prints up to 8 x 10 inches, as long as they aren’t excessively cropped.  **Noise - Auto ISO (3.66)**This model has a truncated ISO range when automatically set. In the automatic modes, it ranges from 80-160. In the sports scene mode, it ranges from 80-200. Noise produced when the ISO was automatically set was average for a compact digital camera. The Kodak EasyShare C340 received an overall auto ISO noise score of 3.66.  **Noise - Manual ISO (5.65)**The range of ISO sensitivities available expands when the function is manually set. 80, 100, 200, and 400 options are offered, which is a typical range for this type of model. Below is a chart that shows noise levels at each ISO rating. The rating is on the horizontal axis and the noise level is depicted on the vertical axis.

We input the individual noise level results from each ISO rating into a regression analysis to determine the overall score. The Kodak EasyShare C340 scored a 5.65, which is better than its automatic score and about average for manual ISO scores on compact models in this price range. Images do get noisy when the ISO settings are pushed and may compel users to opt for flash exposures over the increased sensitivity.  **Low Light Performance (3.0)**If planning a trip to the nightclubs with the Kodak C340, plan on also using the flash constantly or finding a well lit room for photographs. We tested the C340 in less than optimal lighting and came up with some disappointing results. We tried the night scene mode, but were blurry with less accurate color. Using the self-timer didn’t help, so we resorted to the auto mode.

 60 lux is about the lighting found with two soft lamps in a living room after sunset. At this level, the C340’s images retained illumination, but the colors suffered and look under-saturated. A single 40-watt bulb is the equivalent of 30 lux; in this lighting the C340 got considerably darker in illumination and color became even muddier. 15 and 5 lux are very near darkness. Not only does the camera’s color and illumination deteriorate respectively, but the images’ sharpness takes a dive too. So while the Kodak EasyShare C340 is a fun portable camera, don’t take it stargazing.  **Speed / Timing***Start-up to First Shot**(3.79)*Start up the camera and take a few deep breaths and count to ten. It may take just that long for the C340 to start up and snap its first shot. Our testing got the camera to startup as fast as 6.21 seconds, which really isn’t fast at all. In fact, it’s one of the slowest models we’ve ever tested.  *Shot to Shot**(9.01)*Fortunately, the Kodak EasyShare C340’s burst mode is much quicker than its start-up. It took an average of 0.53 seconds between shots for 3 shots before recording to the memory and preparing for its next burst.  *Shutter to Shot**(7.94)*There is some shutter lag in this model. From the time the shutter release button is pressed to the moment the picture is recorded, 0.53 seconds go by. We’ve seen slower models, but we’ve seen much faster too – even among entry-level compact cameras.  

Physical Tour

 
**
Front (5.5)**The C340’s front face is split into two halves. The left side is covered with a reflective silver finish with a pattern of horizontal lines. The right half is covered with a matte silver finish. A small raised Kodak insignia is on the edge of the scalloped right side, which should provide users with a comfortable grip. The most prominent feature on the front is the retractable 34-102mm (equivalent) Kodak Retinar zoom lens on the left side of the camera body. This lens has a cover which opens or retracts when the camera is turned on or off. The lens barrel is surrounded by a polished metallic silver ring, which is aesthetic rather than functional. Above and to the left of the lens barrel is the viewfinder, unfortunately positioned so that it can be easily obstructed by left hand fingers and provide inaccurate framing. Above and to the right of the lens is the microphone; this at least is out of the way of the user's fingers. Above the microphone and the right half of the lens is a horizontal flash near the top edge of the camera body. This flash should produce even coverage, although there will be a shadow cast from right to left because the flash is not centered over the lens. To the right of the flash, users will find the self-timer lamp. **Back (5.0)**The 1.6-inch, 72,000 pixel LCD takes up a fair portion of the left side of the camera’s back. It's rare to find a camera display with fewer than 110,000 pixels these days, which is poor as it is, but Kodak has supplied one. A large black frame surrounds the small screen, which is raised from the surface of the camera body. Also raised from the camera body and located above the LCD in the left-hand corner of the back face is the optical viewfinder. Although a great option for extending battery life, the viewfinder really is exceptionally small and nearly unusable.  Since both it and the LCD are slightly raised up from the camera’s back, users will probably leave greasy nose prints on the LCD when they use the optical viewfinder. To the right of the viewfinder is the ready light for the camera, which will alert users when the camera is processing and when it is ready to capture. Running along the right side of the LCD screen are a number of buttons positioned vertically. Next to the top right corner of the LCD is the Delete button. Like all the buttons along this edge, the Delete button is raised from the camera body and large enough to activate accidentally. Beneath the Delete button is the camera’s LCD On/Off/Status button. This button is the only one out of the four positioned here that has two icons in lieu of a full text label. Beneath the LCD status button is the Menu button, and last is the review button, which allows users to enter and exit the playback mode without having to enter a menu or spin mode dials. To the right of these four controls and placed on the body of the camera is a four-way controller.  The four-way controller is a continuous ring which is large enough to be easy to use, although separate controls for the cardinal directions would seem easier and more accurate. In the center of the four-way controller is the OK button. In the lower right-hand corner is Kodak’s famous red Share button, a jewel-like button that is clearly labeled. In the upper right-hand corner on the back of the camera is the zoom control, which is comprised of two separate controls for wide angle and telephoto. These controls are raised slightly from the camera body on a slight plateau, and each has its own labels for both regular and playback mode. When in playback mode these controls act as zoom in and zoom out controls for single images. Beneath the zoom controls is a patch of 10 raised dots in a triangle, which attempt to act as a finger grip. Although a nice thought, it would be better to have more grip or rubber on the right side instead. The triangle of dots found here is hardly going to stop the Kodak EasyShare C340 from falling into a river gorge when hands get damp from rising mist. **Left Side (5.5)**The left side of the camera body is devoid of controls and buttons, though not completely empty. There is a DC in 3V jack in the lower back corner. Running along the center of this side and wrapping up to the camera top is a strip of metal with textured horizontal lines similar to those on the front of the camera for a more unified aesthetic. 

 **Right Side (5.5)**The right side of the C340 has a rounded surface to help users hold the camera more comfortably with one hand, and this surface ends with a scalloped edge positioned more towards the front of the camera. In the center of the right side and wrapping around from the front is a polished, large eyelet for a wrist strap. Behind the eyelet is a port door which sits flush with the camera surface. The tab for this cover is on the back edge of the right side. This door flips open easily and does not have any locking mechanism, meaning that it could open accidentally when thrown haphazardly into a bag. It's attached to the camera body by a pair of durable hinges. Under the cover is the slot for SD/MMC memory cards as well as the USB / A/V out for transferring data to computer/printer or television. This side is devoid of any sort of textured surface, so shooting with one hand may be unwise.  

Top ***(6.0)*** A textured strip runs across the top of the C340 and leads to the Mode Dial on the right. The mode dial is impressively large and raised significantly from the camera body. The shutter release sits in the center. The dial snaps nicely from mode to mode, though its durability is questionable. The mode dial allows users to navigate through a number of modes: Auto, Scene, Portrait, Sport, Landscape, Close-up, and Video, along with an Off setting and a Favorite mode. The dial unfortunately does not turn 360 degrees, so if users want to go from the first mode to the last, they will need to spin the dial completely around. To the left of the mode dial is a raised flash button which displays the flash settings on the LCD screen. To the left of the flash button is the Self-Timer/Burst mode. This button allows for cycling between two second and ten shutter delays along with burst mode. On the left side of the top is the playback speaker for the camera, a feature which is visually notable by a grid of nine small holes.  

Components

 
 ******Viewfinder (1.5)**The viewfinder on the Kodak EasyShare C340 is frustratingly small and poorly positioned. The viewfinder does register zoom levels, but because this is a real image optical viewfinder it has a field of view far less than 100% of the actual captured shot. If the prospect of beheading your beloved aunt Gertie is unappealing, it will be necessary to monitor images through the LCD screen. Using the viewfinder on this camera when the display is turned off will save the batteries, but accuracy is probably more desirable to most people in the long run.   **LCD Screen (2.0)**In the world of 2 and 2.5-inch LCD screens, the Kodak C340’s small LCD can only offer a cramped display and low pixel count. Consumers concerned with screen size (or quality) should look at other alternatives. The C340 has a 1.6-inch LCD with only 72,000 pixels. If a large LCD is essential to your point-and-shoot photography and paying slightly more isn’t a problem, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W5 has a 2.5-inch, 115,000 pixel LCD for just under $300 (USD).  **Flash (5.5)**The in-camera flash for the Kodak EasyShare C340 is positioned above and slightly off-center from the lens of the camera. This means that there will be a shadow cast to one side of the subject thanks to the uneven lighting.  The flash unit is small and focused; light emitting from it will be hard and specular, creating thick, sharp shadows.  When shooting in wide angle the camera is able to produce a flash which is reported to reach a distance of 2 to 12 feet. When in telephoto mode that range is limited to 2 to 7 feet. Do not expect this flash to illuminate into the rainforest canopy so you can nab that shot of an ocelot.  The flash options are accessed through the flash button positioned to the left of the mode dial on the top of the camera. The flash button allows the user to switch between Auto Flash, Fill, Red-eye, and Off settings. While all of the settings are available when in standard AUTO mode, some of the flash controls are not provided in scene modes. There is no accessory or external flash mount for this camera so users will need to rely on the in-camera flash. When using this flash, be prepared for the 0.5 second or so delay between the depression of the shutter and the actual capture of the image. **Zoom Lens (6.0)**The Kodak Retinar Aspheric All Glass Lens on the Kodak EasyShare C340 is recessed inside the camera body when the camera is not shooting. The zoom lens is covered by an automatic door. The lens has a 34-102mm equivalent zoom (35mm) and an aperture range of f/2.7-f/5 in wide angle and f/4.6-f/8.7 in telephoto settings. The C340 has 5x digital zoom, but digital zooms always yield poor image quality. The zoom lens is controlled through the wide and telephoto controls positioned in the upper right corner on the back of the camera. 

Design / Layout

 **Model Design / Appearance (4.0)**The Kodak EasyShare C340 displays a strong boxy design that lacks ornamentation and visual interest. The left side of the front face is textured with a tight horizontal line pattern embossed onto a shiny metallic surface. Besides a small textured strip similar to that found on the left face of the camera, the rest of the Kodak EasyShare C340 has a matte sliver exterior. The buttons on this camera are limited to the bare essentials and are large enough for anyone. The body isn’t sleek or sexy; it lacks any hint of appeal in the design but does offer competent functionality and simplicity. 

The right side of the front face does feature a scalloped grip which crests on the front face of the camera after sloping from the right side. This right-hand side isn’t quite a full grip, and it isn’t subtle enough to just be an aesthetic feature. This visual confusion is echoed in the awkward handling. In general, the C340’s odd design and build mean that comfort, style, and functionality can’t quite meet eye to eye. **Size / Portability (6.5)**The Kodak EasyShare C340 is a portable camera, albeit not pocket sized. But the sizable frame of the camera belies its light weight; the C340 measures 3.6 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches and weighs only 5.1 ounces without memory card or batteries. The camera can be easily held in one hand during short periods of time and the prominent and well placed wrist strap eyelet will mean added security. Though carrying it is easy, be wary of placing it in a bag; the port door on the right side of the camera doesn’t seems to have a locking mechanism. Throwing this camera into a backpack could potentially open and break this feature. **Handling Ability (6.0)**The C340 has a larger than average point-and-shoot body size compared to the ever shrinking cameras offered by manufacturers like Casio, Pentax, and Sony. Even so, it should still have textured grip somewhere for added security in slippery situations. The scallop on the front right edge of the camera is nice, but not enough. The microphone is placed far enough away from gripping hands so that users won’t need to worry about accidentally covering this feature. The lens barrel extends far enough out from the camera to avoid meandering fingers as well, and all of the controls are large enough to be activated without needing to constantly re-check finger positions. The camera body is a glorified, smooth rectangle, which needs some improvements for better handling. Textured pads for the right hand would help considerably.  

 **Control Button / Dial Positioning / Size (7.0)**The controls on the Kodak EasyShare C340 are for the most part well sized and placed; most are raised slightly from the camera for quick access. The only button which may be a little confusing is the On/Off/Status button next to the LCD, which is not represented with a full text description. However, all the other buttons are amply sized and intuitive to activate. The stripped down and basic nature of the EasyShare controls will appeal to consumers who are hoping to avoid complicated navigation or multi-function features. If more complicated controls, manual controls settings, or external navigation is needed, this camera (not surprisingly) will fall short. **Menu (7.5)**The Kodak EasyShare C340 comes with an exceptionally basic and simple menu structure that will neither confuse nor lose a single user. Accessing the menu when in auto shooting mode will be possible through the Menu button located on the back of the camera. Once the Menu button is pressed, an opaque gold and blue menu will appear. Each menu option has a large font and a smaller full text description in the upper right-hand corner of the LCD screen. There are only eleven submenu options and only three options are displayed on the LCD at one time. Options when scanning through the regular shooting menu are: Exposure Compensation, Picture Size, White Balance, ISO Speed, Focus Zone, Color Mode, Long Time Exposure, Set Album, Image Storage, and Setup Menu.
The Setup Menu features options that include Return, Live View On/Off, Sound Themes, Sound Volume, Auto Power Off, Date and Time, Video Out, Orientation Sensor Off/On, Date Stamp, Video Date Display, Language, Format, and About.

Both of these menus are navigated vertically through the up and down arrows on the four-way controller. Once a submenu control is selected with the OK button, it is possible to scan further menus in the same manner. These menus, as mentioned above, are intensely basic: don’t expect to manipulate degrees Kelvin. However, if don’t want any more control, this could be a good point-and-shoot camera. Also, if you generally find camera menus troublesome and intimidating, the user-friendly structure of the Kodak EasyShare C340 system will be sure to please. When the camera is switched into Scene mode the user is able to switch among modes through the left and right arrows on the four-way controller. These options include settings such as Children, Party, Night Portrait, Beach, Snow, Fireworks, Self-Portrait, and Backlight. Full text descriptions of each mode are presented in the center of the LCD screen along with examples of when each mode could be used.  In playback mode the user can navigate the playback menu while still having captured photos in the background. In fact, it is possible to navigate and keep the menu open while scanning through pictures with the left and right arrows on the four-way controller. The Playback menu includes options for control over: Album, Crop, Slide Show, Multi-up, Copy, Protect, Image Storage, and Setup Menu. These controls have both full text descriptions and symbols. The symbols are positioned on the left side of the LCD screen and are placed on an opaque gold background. A drawback of the playback mode is the inclusion of the multi-up feature within the playback menu, a decision which forces the user to enter and exit the playback menu each time multi or single image switching is required during review.  **Ease of Use (8.0)**The Kodak EasyShare C340 is intended for consumers with a strong emphasis on ease of use and simplicity. From turning the camera on to navigating the menus, the C340 is structured to keep users from needing to think about the camera layout and design. The menu structure is basic and colorful, with full text descriptions and a limited number of standard options. The buttons are large and easy to engage and navigation on the LCD is simple thanks to the oversized four-way controller. Scene modes are easy to recognize due to the full text descriptions shown on the LCD when switching between preset scene modes. Although this camera is easy to use and uncomplicated throughout the entire process from shooting to printing, this also means that most users of the Kodak EasyShare series will be unable to actually recognize what really happens in the camera each time a picture is taken. And while that may not matter to the user who dislikes manual controls, anyone seeking a camera that they can grow and evolve with will find the C340 to be a bit of a disappointment after ISO settings and Exposure Compensation are mastered during the first week. If more user-based control is desired, cameras like the Canon PowerShot A510 or the Nikon Coolpix 5900, which also has far better video performance with frame rates of 30 fps, are recommended. 

Modes

 **Auto Mode (7.5)**The auto mode on the Kodak EasyShare C340 will provide users with not only a full general auto mode where all settings are placed on default and image parameters are established by the camera, but also the opportunity to engage the limited "manual" settings. The auto mode has access to the exposure compensation settings, flash settings, ISO settings, and white balance preset modes along with focusing zones and long time exposures. The AUTO mode is well labeled on the mode dial and the first setting option available once the camera is turned on. Auto mode is simple to use and can function properly without the user ever entering the in-camera menu and altering the settings found within. Just don’t expect more than the bare basics and certainly don’t expect the camera to provide full manual functionality.  **Movie Mode (3.5)**When the Kodak EasyShare C340 is placed in movie mode the user is able to shoot video clips with simultaneous audio in two frame rates. The C340 can shoot 640 x 480 resolution video at 13 frames per second. At a resolution of 320 x 240 the camera is able to produce frame rates of 20 fps. While it’s great that this camera can shoot at a resolution of 640 x 480, the absolutely lagging frame rate will sadly supply users with stuttered and jittery video. The menu options in movie mode only allow the user to change the resolution, set album, video length, image storage, and enter the setup menu. There are no manual control options available in video mode, nor is it possible to zoom. Movies are recorded as a Motion JPEG with audio capture/playback via the in-camera microphone and speaker.  **Drive / Burst Mode (6.0)**The Kodak EasyShare C340 has a very quick burst mode: it will take three images in a second, which is as fast as much more expensive cameras. Unfortunately, the Kodak EasyShare C340 can only do this for three images at a time. After taking a three-shot burst, the camera needs about five seconds to record those images to memory. Three frames in a second is a nifty feature to catch folks blowing out candles on a birthday cake, however. **Playback Mode (7.5)**To enter into the EasyShare C340’s playback mode, the user must press the review button on the back of the camera body. Regardless of the mode the camera is currently entered in, this button will immediately switch the camera into review mode, where the user is able to review, sort, and crop images in two viewing arrangements. The review mode provides a full screen single image, and when the menu button is pressed, the menu will appear superimposed over the current displayed image. If the user chooses to change the format into a 9 image, multi-up thumbnail viewing method, the menu can’t be imposed over the thumbnails; once the menu button is pressed, the backdrop reverts to single image display. Although it is possible to engage the multi-up format through the menu list, it may also be entered through the depression of the down arrow on the four-way controller. To zoom in or out on images the user must merely engage the wide angle and telephoto portions of the zoom toggle.

When in the review menu the user can make changes to the album, crop images, make a slide show, view images as a multi-up, copy, protect, specify image storage parameters, and adjust setup menu settings. It is also possible to view and listen to video clips when in review mode. When viewing movies it is only possible to play and pause the clip by using the OK button. There is no in-camera editing or manipulation available. **Custom Image Presets (7.0)**The custom image preset scene modes are found through the mode dial on the Kodak EasyShare C340. On the actual mode dial itself, users can select settings of Close-Up, Landscape, Sports, or Portrait mode. A fifth setting called the Scene mode will allow users to select from a number of preset scene mode options which appear on the LCD screen. The user is able to scroll through the scene options via the left and right arrows on the four-way controller. The scene modes here include Self Portrait, Fireworks, Snow, Beach, Night Portrait, Party, Children, and Backlight settings. These settings are represented as a number of small and wholly indecipherable series of graphics, a downfall which is more or less canceled out by the large text scene mode titles and descriptions which appear simultaneously on the LCD screen as the user scans through each of these preset options.  

Control Options

 **Manual Control Options      The Kodak EasyShare C340 isn’t intended for the manual control market. On the C340, users are able to control the preset white balance mode and ISO settings when the camera is set to AUTO mode, but in other preset or scene shooting modes the user will be unable to access these few controls. Although simple to navigate, the options available on the C340 are bound to disappoint anyone with an inclination towards manual controls. This camera is intended for an audience that is drawn to automatic assistance, ease of use and utter simplicity.   Focus***Auto (7.0)*The auto focus mode on the Kodak EasyShare C340 is the only focal mode provided with this camera. It will allow users to choose whether the camera is placed in center multi or center focal zone setup. The Kodak EasyShare C340 uses a through the lens (TTL-AF) Auto Focus system with a working range 23.6 inches to infinity in Standard mode, 32.8 feet to infinity in Landscape mode, 5-28 inches in Close-up Wide and 9-28 inches in Close-up Telephoto mode. To engage the auto focus system, the user must press the shutter button partially and wait until the frame is displayed on the LCD screen. There are five framing systems which may be engaged: center focus, center wide focus, side focus, center and side focus, and left/right focus. When the shutter has been pressed and the framing brackets onscreen turn to green, the focus has been set. If the frame is unable to lock in the auto focus frame will not turn green. For more AF modes, check out the Casio Exilim EX-Z110. It has an array of settings, including a pan focus option when shooting in movie mode. *Manual (0.0)*There is no manual focus setting available on the C340, but it is not impossible to find manual focus at this price point in this type of camera. Manual focus point-and-shoot cameras priced below $300 include the Canon PowerShot A510 and the Nikon Coolpix 7600, though the included manual focus on those models is marginal at best. **Exposure (6.0)**Exposure compensation is available to users of the Kodak EasyShare C340. Exposure compensation ranges from +/-2 EV in 1/2-stop increments, which is less accurate than most cameras which enable adjustments in 1/3-stops. This control is located within the AUTO mode shooting menu, and like the other two manual control modes provided, it does not display live views of the alterations. The Exposure Compensation on the C340 is also not available in any of the preset scene or shooting modes on this camera. **Metering (5.5)**There is no manual or preset metering option available when shooting with the Kodak EasyShare C340. While this might not seem like an issue, this camera’s reliance on a center weighted metering system means that complicated lighting situations such as backlit or strong directional lighting will most likely be poorly captured. Although there is a backlit preset, this mode, like all preset modes on this camera, will block access to the white balance, ISO, and exposure compensation settings. The Casio Exilim EX-Z110 provides users with multi, spot, and center-weighted metering control options; having metering options available on a camera for under $300 (USD) isn’t too uncommon in general. **White Balance (3.5)**White balance settings for the Kodak EasyShare C340 are found within the shooting menu when the camera is entered into AUTO mode. This mode allows the user to select among a limited number of preset white balance modes that include Auto, Daylight, Tungsten, and Fluorescent. There is no custom/manual white balance setting available with this camera, although that shouldn’t come as a surprise since this camera is appealing to the automatic market. Four white balance presets aren’t very many, but lower-end Kodaks tend to skimp on them anyway. Compared to other manufacturer’s offerings, this limited color balance set is quite restrictive and disappointing.

ISO ***(7.0)***The only other manual control option available beyond white balance and auto exposure is the ISO setting. It can be controlled via the shooting menu of the Kodak EasyShare C340, and controlling this setting is only possible when the camera is set to its auto mode. The available ISO ratings are 80, 100, 200, and 400. This should provide users with an introduction to the effects of ISO ratings, although it would be great if a live feed were provided to allow to instantly recognize the effects of alterations on their images. Auto ISO speeds provide an ISO range from 80 to 160 ISO, which will really only be useful in well lit situations, such as outdoors on a sunny day.

Shutter Speed ***(0.0)***The full shutter speed range on the Kodak EasyShare C340 is 4 seconds to 1/4000th of a second, including the camera’s Long Exposure Mode range. This option is found in the shooting menu of the camera’s AUTO mode. Once selected, the user can enter this menu and set the maximum shutter speed to times of none, 0.7 seconds, 1.0 seconds, 1.5 seconds, 2.0 seconds, 3.0 seconds, and 4.0 seconds. Unfortunately, none are available with a live view. **Aperture (0.0)**The aperture settings for the Kodak EasyShare C340 are entirely automatic, which shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise considering the minimal manual controls throughout the EasyShare camera series. The aperture range on the C340 runs from f/2.7-f/5.2 when shooting in wide angle to f/4.6 to f/8.7 in telephoto. While an aperture setting of f/2.7 should provide strong results in low light, the sizable jump to f/4.6 in telephoto means that the image quality of telephoto images will be greatly impaired in lower light situations. 

Image Parameters

 **Picture Quality / Size Options (6.5)**The picture quality and size options for the Kodak EasyShare C340 are found through the shooting menu in all still and movie modes found on this camera, and they are simple to locate. When shooting in still modes the four image quality settings are: 5.0 MP Best (2576 x 1932); 4.4 MP Best 3:2; 2.1 MP Better; and 1.1 MP Good. When shooting in movie mode, the user can decide between settings of 640 x 480 at 13 fps or 320 x 240 at 20 fps. Both settings will provide users with less-than-stellar quality video thanks to the excessively slow frame rate.  **Picture Effects Mode (6.0)**The picture effects modes are not as numerous as those found on many of the point-and-shoot cameras by Canon, though the C340 does offer the expected triptych of color, black and white, and sepia mode for in-camera digital effects. These three modes are found in the standard shooting menu under the submenu heading of color mode, and they are available in all still shot modes. For more serious color manipulation, it's best to shoot in standard color mode and import the images into an image editing program like Adobe Photoshop. The EasyShare software included with this camera also provides black and white, sepia, and color control settings. 

Connectivity / Extras

 **Connectivity***Software (6.5)*The included software for the Kodak EasyShare C340 allows the user to import images from their camera onto their computer via the USB connection, also included with the camera. The EasyShare Software camera will run on either Windows OS or Mac OS X. Images are imported into a viewer where users can scan through thumbnails, and assign individual images to specific albums, and otherwise sort their images. It is also possible to edit images through rotation and cropping in this first screen. If the user opens the slide show viewer and scans through images, they will be able to edit individual images further by simply double clicking the "Edit Pictures" button. Once in this screen it is possible to edit red-eye, crop, enhance brightness/contrast, change exposure, apply fun effects, and zoom. The Fun Effects mode allows users to manipulate images with a number of "creative" settings which include sepia, black and white, cartoon, coloring book, and fish eye. These settings aren’t anything to write home about. For ambitious image manipulation beyond simple cropping and distorting, the user would be wise to look elsewhere to programs like Photoshop by Adobe.  

Jacks, ports, plugs (6.0)*There are only a few ports and plugs on the Kodak EasyShare C340; two ports are found on the bottom. The Dock Connector is positioned in the center of the camera base and provides a direct connection between the camera and printer when transferring images from the camera's memory. To the right of the dock connector is a door which can be slid forward before opening from a hinge on the back edge of the camera frame. This door covers the battery compartment, which holds 2 AA cells. On the right side of the camera there is a door, which when flipped open will reveal the memory card slot as well as the USB / A/V out port. On the left side of the camera body there is one exposed port which allows the user to plug an optional DC in 3V adapter into the camera.  

Direct Print Options (8.0)*With a print/share button predominantly displayed on the back of the camera, the Kodak EasyShare C340 has the ability to both transfer images to personal computers and to print images directly from the camera. The EasyShare C340 is compatible not only with PictBridge printers but also EasyShare printers through the use of the EasyShare printer dock. For an additional $100 (USD) the C340 is available with a pre-packaged printer through the Kodak website. This camera is also compatible with the ImageLink Print System, which prints not only photographs by Kodak by also by a number of other manufacturers. *Battery** (5.5)*The battery slot for the Kodak EasyShare C340 is found underneath a cover on the bottom face of the camera. The Kodak EasyShare C340 runs on two AA batteries and has a number of auto power off options spanning 1 to 10 minutes. This feature will save considerable battery life. Unfortunately, the user must turn the camera off and then back on to start it up after it shuts off automatically—this is not a "sleep" mode that the camera can wake up from.

Memory (4.5) *The Kodak EasyShare C340 includes a 16MB memory card, although there is no built-in memory. While 16 MB is a nice start for the beginning photographer’s first forays into the world of digital imaging, it will hardly suffice when the camera is taken on an extended trip, a day hike, or even to a child’s soccer match. 16 MB of memory will hold only a handful of images captured in the highest quality resolution, and don’t think you’ll get more than 15 seconds of stuttering video when the resolution is set to 640 x 480 in movie mode. In the long run, users will need additional memory cards in the 256MB to 512MB range.  *Other Features (5.5)***Favorites mode - *The favorites mode allows users to save images to "Favorites" which can be found on the mode dial. To set pictures and clips to the favorites mode, the user will have to press the Share button and press the left and right arrows on the four-way controller. The up and down arrows must then be pressed to highlight the Favorite option, and the OK button must be pressed to confirm the selection. When tired of sifting through memory cards to locate that one picture from your last night out, the Favorites mode can sidestep this process and provide quick access key photos. *In-Camera Cropping - *The in-camera cropping option provides the opportunity to alter images prior to exporting them to a personal computer or printer. It is activated through the review menu when viewing saved images. The cropping mode allows users to crop images that are above 2.1 MP, and the original image is kept along with the new version—a nice touch. Once the picture is selected, the user chooses crop and a crop box will appear. The crop box can be resized through the use of the zoom controls and the position of the crop zone can be controlled through the four-way controller. Pressing the OK button brings up a save dialog. This action will save the image onto the memory card. 

Overall Impressions

 **Value (5.5)**With a list price of $249.95 and a street price below $195, the Kodak EasyShare C340 is cheaper than other 5 megapixel, 3x zoom compact cameras – though nearly all of that cohort offer much better LCD displays. The Kodak EasyShare C340's key advantage, aside from price, is its remarkable simplicity. The problem is, most people who want the C340's level of simplicity also need a decent-sized LCD display. To put the C340's problem in perspective, we often complain that a 1.8-inch LCD is too small, and a 1.8-inch LCD is 126 percent the size of the C340's 1.5-inch. So, while we're glad to see a 5-megapixel camera sell for less than $200, we believe that the better values would be cameras with larger LCDs, even if the cost a little more. The good news is that several cameras with 1.8-inch LCDs sell in the same range as the C340, while cameras with luxuriant, 2.5-inch LCDs go for about $50 more. **Comparisons***Canon PowerShot A520 -* The Canon PowerShot A520 provides users with a camera that is more expensive than the Kodak EasyShare C340 and also has smaller 4 MP CCD measuring 1/2.5 inch. The camera is equipped with a slightly larger 4x optical zoom and complete manual control. The A520 also has the added bonus of being able to accept both accessory lenses and flashes. The A520 overall is able to provide former point and shoot users the opportunity for advancement into the world of manual control. If a consumer has an interest in learning about manual control and features, then the A520 would make more sense than the C340 with its smaller LCD and minimal user input.    ***Fujifilm FinePix  A350 -* With a slightly larger MP of 5.2 CCD the A350 has an optical zoom which is identical to that of the C340, 3x optical. Oddly this camera is only able to assure users of an LCD accuracy of 90%, a rating that might be acceptable in a real image optical viewfinder, but never in an electronic monitor such as an LCD. The exposure compensation scale for this camera is smaller than the C340 with a maximum and minimum of -2.1 to +1.5 EV. The white balance mode while minimal does provide a live view option, a feature not found on the C340. All in all, the A350 doesn’t manage to outdo the simple structure of the EasyShare series, and with minimal auto controls and a compromised viewing display it is unable to out perform the C340 in terms of the automatic point and shoot market. *Nikon Coolpix 5600 - *With a comparably sized CCD of 5.1 MP when paired against the C340, the 5600 manages to provide users with a larger LCD screen, a similar real image optical viewfinder, more preset scene modes to select from, and an even more limited number of manual controls which allow for access to very few areas on this camera. ISO is fully automatic as is aperture along with metering. This camera does provide a full auto mode, 5 presets, and one manual mode option when manipulating the white balance settings, but for the manual control junkie this camera isn’t going to make the cut. And although the movie mode settings aren’t anything special on the C340, those on the Nikon don’t fair much better, providing just 2 frames per second faster recording at its highest resolution, not exactly smooth video. *Pentax Optio S55 -*****The Pentax Optio S55 is able to provide its users with an overtly large LCD screen for under $250 (USD) but is unable to produce a sports mode among its preset scene modes and an entirely devoid manual mode which only provides user input when manipulation and altering white balance settings. When being tested and reviewed, the S55 ate through an excessive number of batteries and although the LCD screen is large, the low pixel count and inaccuracy of the screen meant that framing problems and visibility, like the A350 makes capturing even the most basic image more complicated than is necessary. This camera has a 5 MP CCD and a 3x optical zoom making this pair of specifications identical to those found on the Kodak EasyShare C340. **Who It’s For***Point-and-Shooters – This camera is designed for point and shooters; basic camera body, basic buttons, basic shooting and basic exporting and printing make this camera a snapshooter’s dream. Menus are easy to navigate and settings described for all modes. *Budget Consumers - With an original retail price of around $229.95 (USD) this camera is definitely entering the budget market, especially when considering the user-friendly structure for novice or point and shoot fans and the current sub-$200 price tag online.  Gadget Freaks - *The gadget freak is sure to find the minimal color modes, the hokey preset scene modes, and a lack of features and accessories a downfall when searching for a camera to impress their inflatable girlfriend.  Manual Control Freaks - *The manual control enthusiast is bound to find themselves lacking any sort of opportunity for manual adjustment when shooting with this camera. *Pros/Serious Hobbyists - *There would be no conceivable reason for the pro or serious hobbyist to turn to the EasyShare system for photography needs. Even for a point-and-shoot counterpart, pros and serious hobbyists would likely seek out models with more opportunity for control.   

Conclusion

   **** **Conclusion**The Kodak EasyShare C340 is a simple camera for people who don't want to bother with excessive manual controls and exposure adjustments. With a 1/2.5-inch 5 megapixel CCD and 3x zoom lens, the C340 is equipped to provide nice 5 x 7-inch prints with minimal effort required by the photographer. Unfortunately, the camera only contains a 1.6-inch 72K pixel LCD display.  This screen is about as bad as it gets these days and to point-and-shooters, this will be a substantial sacrifice.  Users will loose both compositional precision and sharing ability in the deficient screen.   While the lack of manual controls and video capability will not be missed by many potential consumers of the C340, those with some flexibility in their camera budget would be much better served if they spent $275 on a far more capable camera with a 2.0 or 2.5-inch LCD than a sub-$200 camera with entry-level components. The bargain available is for those looking to purchase the printer dock with the camera. In that package, consumers will get a capable entry-level recording and printing tandem with a simplified interface that will produce 5 x 7-inch prints in 90 seconds. However, as a camera alone, most consumers should look into other alternatives.    

Specs / Ratings

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