For the semi-serious digital photo buff

I received this camera as a Christmas gift after I had done some research throughout the summer to choose the camera that was right for me.

The Kodak DX7590, released in September, is an upgrade to the popular DX6490 model. The main differences between the two models are:

- the 5.0mp imager in the 7590 (vs. the 4.0mp 6490)
- a better, selectable JPEG compression in the 7590
- an actual On/Off button (the 6490 used the dial as a switch)
- more focus and exposure options and modes in the 7590
- doubled video size in the 7590 (640x480 mpeg-4)
- much bigger Electronic View Finder in the 7590 (311 vs. 180k)

Overall, the DX7590 is definitely worth the price difference for the extra options and features.

I have been using the camera quite extensively and I can say I am very pleased with its performance. When you have good lighting, the pictures are spectacular - and with the 5.0mp imager it makes great prints up to 11"x14". Kodak claims 20"x30", but the maximum I would ever bring would be 11"x14" with this camera. The camera starts up quite fast and takes pictures very fast as well. The included 32mb internal memory is just enough to get you started - but not enough to take any amount of pictures if you are away from your computer at all. Luckily the DX7590 gives you several options for image size (5.0, 4.4 (3:2), 4.0 3.1, and 1,8mp) - this is great if you are taking pictures at a party or social event and aren't worried about large picture sizes and when you ARE worried about how many pictures can fit on the camera or your memory card.

Speaking of memory cards, I would suggest at least a 256mb SD card, and with the low prices lately a 512mb and 1gb card wouldn't break the bank either. I take all photos as 5.0 or 4.4mp size with FINE JPEG compression - the file sizes are still very reasonable and transferring photos from your camera to your computer is quite fast. (Note: the 4.4mp mode has an aspect ratio 3:2, making it ideal for printing out 4"x6" or 5"x7" shots).

The Kodak EasyShare software that accompanies the camera is a good starting place for importing and organizing your photos. It is limited however, and I would suggest checking out software like Picasa (free from Google) or Adobe Photoshop Elements or Album. The camera is extremely easy to use (Kodak is famous for their ease of use), and yet it has advanced features that can be learned and used as the user becomes used to the camera and the options it offers.

I have had only two issues with the camera: 1) the battery door is quite flimsy and a part of it has actually broken - I will be sending my camera in for repair in the next week or two; 2) the JPEG compression, although much improved from the DX6490, is still too heavy, especially in blue areas like skies and in darker settings.

The things I like best about the camera are: 1) its high-quality feel and design - it feels like a small SLR camera and it feels very solid in your hands; 2) the very wide range of options - you can go from simple point-and-click automatic simplicity to extremely long, custom shutter speeds and exposure levels in a matter of a "click" of the great jog dial; 3) the incredible 10x optical zoom - you'll need a tripod to take advantage of it most of the time, but it's great - a step up from most digital cameras on the market for sure.

Overall, a great camera for those interested in digital photography, but who are looking for more advanced features that most consumer-level digital cameras offer. It has great options and yet is extremely easy to use for the whole family.