Review on Kodak Easyshare Z712 IS Digital Camera: 7.1 MP with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom by Russell Ross

Bought this camera for my wife. In the last few months we have taken around 1200 photos and a few minutes of video. Super features for the price: mega zoom and excellent optics, plus a damn good image stabilization system. Hey, I ditched my Nikon Coolpix 5700 and a bag full of film cameras in favor of this small number. The 12x optical zoom is HUGE when it comes to composition. 3x zoom on most cameras, as far as I can spit. 6X and you are there, 12X and you are there! The quality of the optics actually produces a better finished image than my Nikon! Take some time for the guided tour. My wife did and taught her "all-knowing" husband a few things about the added features of this camera. You (and I) love the ease of use and overall comfort. She seamlessly transitioned from the point-and-shoot program mode to using a few simple options to unleash her creative side. Yes, it might not fit in a shirt pocket, but Kodak has packed a lot of horsepower into a fairly small and relatively inexpensive package. Think Canon PowerShot or Sony? Save your money and get this little workhorse instead. Impress people with your real photos, not the brand name on the front of your camera! The large LCD screen, combined with the usual viewfinder that requires extra attention, is another big plus on bright, sunny days when the LCD screen is practically useless. All "Special Picture" modes are displayed on the LCD screen, giving you 14 options to choose from, allowing you to quickly expand your ability to capture exceptional images in a variety of conditions. All in all a well thought out, versatile camera at a very reasonable price - BUY! You will not be disappointed. And grab some rechargeable batteries and a charger while you're there (I bought 2 Lenmars off EBay for about $20 and a charger for $12) - these CRV3s aren't a cheap way to get lots of recording.