Turner's Perspective

You definitely need a wide angle lens for real estate. I think my camera will stand up to this one but I understand your point. Wide angles show off the size. Give your old camera to a new agent.

Yes. I think there are other good camera's with an ultra wide angle lens, but for $299, this is the real deal. It's also extremely small, so you can carry it with you everywhere.

Jeff....I have had my eye on this camera for quite some time.  I knew it would make rooms look bigger...I had no idea that it would also make them look brighter.  Your post has convinced me to take the plunge and buy it...now...and take advantage of Amazon.com's free shipping. Thanks!

Judy, I've had this camera for several weeks now and I'm thrilled with it. I'm not new to cameras. I also have a Canon Digital Rebel with a wide angle lens, a Sanyo VPC-C6 and I've owned more than 10 other digital cameras. My personal opinion is that a Realtor shouldn't have to become a photo expert to get great house photos without assistance. The ultra wide lens on this camera grabs so much more light than a standard lens that it will improve your interior shooting. Let me know how you like it for yourself.

Here's some info on the V705 from dPreview

Wow!  It's a sexy-lookin' little thing!! 

 

I think I just might grab one to to keep tucked in my bag at all times!!

 

Thanks Jeff,

                    I have an Olympus 5060WZ (wide zoom) which in low light and set at the widest angle will seem darker than I like.  I'll have to check this out.

Thanks Jay 

As I said in my post. It took a lot for me to endorse a camera. That's the reason why I took the photos above without touching the settings on the camera at all. My living room is not super dark, but it's not bright with the curtains drawn. As you can see, the 35mm lens was as you'd expect, darker than you want. But the ultra wide angle captured more light. 

I've used the camera for several weeks now and playing with the multitude of automatic settings can get you a pretty good photo is just about any light. When I need a great portrait of one of my kids, I pull out the Canon Digital Rebel. But this one is so small and light, that I do carry it with me everywhere. I'm very pleased.

Thanks for the insight.  I have a Nikon but it has gotten tempermental and doesn't always work .  I need to replace it and do not want to spend the big bucks I did on that on.  I will check this camera out.  As a real estate agent, small and easy to tote is best.  I still get stuck on the old 35mm cameras.  Guess that shows my age.  (lol)

Thanks for the tip - My camera doesn't have a wide angle. I think this will make a big difference!  Love the panoramic thing too!

Jeff, the Kodak EasyShare P880 rocks too .. for $269 online at Costco (the price has gone down again!) after the $100 rebate. It has the ability to do video and all kinds of stuff.

Make sure to check them both out before investing.

Maureen if you have the time, like panoramas, and want to do them yourself you can. Contact Real Tour Vision. Tell 'em I sent you! :) (it doesn't cost you anything.. just gets me a pat on the back ;)

Dawn Shaffer

 

Maureen, the great thing about the V705 is the ultra wide angle lens. The EasyShare P880 is a great camera, but it won't get you the super wide angle needed for very small rooms of houses. The fact that it builds the panoramic shots in the camera, without additional software and no training is just a bonus.

Jeff - What about shutter lag?  That's the one area the bigger digi-SLRs really seem to trump the compact digi-cams.  (I can say that - I own and love both types.)

Cheryl, yes there is some shutter lag, and that's a tradeoff, but in this case it's not a severely noticeable tradeoff. For me, shutter lag has always been part of the learning curve with a point and shoot camera. It's just something you get used to. 

With the v705 I have not noticed the shutter lag like I did with the Sanyo VPC-C6, which was my last most recent point and shoot camera. For me, the convenience of being able to stick the camera in my pocket is worth the small shutter lag.

Thanks Jeff,

A wide angle point and shoot camera is tough to find.  I had to get a Ricoh Caplio R1 from Japan a couple of years ago. You definitely need it to get decent interior pictures. I'll have to donate my current camera to my wife and try this one out.

Jeff, thanks for the input--I will continue to use my Olympus C7070 wide lens for the tight shots.

Dawn Shaffer

Ok Jeff, I thought your title was bold.. but I must agree with your post. most of my pics for appraising cause me to find that special angle from the corner of the back yard to get the rear photo. this is nice, and my old dig is starting to act a little crazy.
plus the panoramic would have been nice on my recent trip.. so I guess you just gave me another excuse to make a similar trip or even revisit some of the nicer spots. 
so, thanks to this post I will be able produce better appraisal reports. much appreciated. I hope santa knows that I have been nice.. or at least more nice that naughty!
take care,
nick

Nick, naughty or nice, I don't think you'll go wrong. Good luck!

Further to Jeff's recommendation, Pop Photo says this.

Overall, for the price and feature set, the EasyShare V705 is a well-mannered camera that has some useful and interesting features. The V705 has the rock-solid feel of a much more expensive camera, but at a fraction of the price, and the super-wide angle abilities place the V705 head and shoulders above most of its competition. Throw in the video editing, panoramic features, overall good performance, and good image quality, and you've got a winner.

Full review here

Thanks, Norm!

Just one tip -- If you are the type of photographer that likes to hold the camera up to your eye and look through the viewfinder to compose a shot, the V705 may not be the camera for you; it does not have a viewfinder. 

You hold the camera away from your eye, and watch the LCD panel to compose your shot.  This is the way most people use small digi-cams anyway, but for the diehards who prefer to hold the camera up to their eye, it might be a good idea to try this model out in a local camera store to see if it feels right to you....

thanks to Norm for the link to the review. I read some more reviews, but if I may pick Jeff's brain..

Since you actually have the camera Jeff, a few questions to you if you dont mind.... how is the battery life? how many shots per battery charge? and what type of batteries does it use?(found this.. Kodak Li-ion battery KLIC-7001)  How long to start up and shoot (from off to on and ready)? Does the video have audio?

My little Nikon coolpics 4300 has been my little powerhouse for a while. The power up time is quick, which is great when shooting comparables in a not so nice neighborhood.. turn it on quick, get the shot and get outta there!! (people always seems to give me the 'stink eye' when I'm taking pics of their new home).  :)
nick

PS. just wanted to add. I just bought 3 new rechargeable Li-ion batteries for my Nikon with a 100v/12v adapter charger for a grand total of $22 incl. shipping from http://www.power101.com/ . The batts were like $6 each with shipping, vs. $35 at best buy. They work just fine. I'm not affliated with that company, just an FYI. Order was sent same day and arrived quickly.

Nick, happy to assist. And Cheryl, thank you for the advice on the viewfinder!

First, the start up time is very quick. Less than one second to shoot ready. Second, the video is 640x480 30 fps XVGA quality with sound. I am very pleased with the video quality for family events, and you can use the zoom during video shooting. I use a 2 gig memory card, so I could shoot 80 minutes straight of video. Lastly, shots per charge is something I've not monitored. I shoot photos and video combined most of the time, so it's hard for me to say.

 I am pleased with the battery life, however. My last point and shoot, which I still have, was a Sanyo VPC-C6. It's battery life was horrid. I bought it specifically because of the supposed video quality. But the video quality on this Kodak is better, the second ultra wide lens rocks and the photo quality is better as well. I'll post a video here in a bit, if I remember!

Hopes this helps a bit.

thanks for the info Jeff. I didn't know that there wasn't a limitation on video in seconds..my camera has a 40 sec limitation. By what you say, the video records as long as there is memory on the card. cooool.
nick

OK, so here is some unedited, uncompressed sample video for anyone who is interested. It saves in .mov format, so you may need the quicktime plugin to view it. It's also 12 megabytes, so be patient.

View the Kodak v705 Raw Video Here 

pretty nice. love the area. here in FL everything is flat. that hilly setup is nice.
anyway.. i like the vid quality. for that size to be encoded at about 515Kb /sec is not bad.

I see some difference in the tone towards the end of the vid, as in vertical discoloration. is that a reflection? or does that happen in all the vids.
thanks for taking the time.
nick

I'm very impressed with the photo and video quality.  I may have to get one of these too.  Costco now has the V705 for $279 after a $100 instant coupon (online only).

Nick, that was a result of where I was standing in relation to the sun in that video. It is not usually there.

Mike, thanks for the low price tip! 

Does everyone still feel as great about this camera as when you posted?

Suzi, I have it with me now on my trip to New York. I love this camera. And here's a perfect example of why I love it. I went out an walked around the city last night. My hotel is right near Macy's. There is NO WAY I would have gotten the whole window in with a normal point and shoot. No way.

This photo was taken at night using the "museum" setting that turns off the flash and shutter sound. As with any camera, you'll get better results once you understand what circumstances to use which setting with, and a tripod will help make sure your shots are steady. Mike Whitman sent me a few comparison shots between between a Canon and the Kodak. You can see a light difference in the pixels at a one to one ratio and the Canon is slightly sharper, but as you can see from the samples he sent the ultra wide angle lens gives you a wider field of view, even at a distance.

Sold! and thank you for your input. I have used RealEstateShows before so I am pretty certain you would be a discriminating camera purchaser. I will buy one today.

I do not think you will regret it!  Let me know your opinions post purchase, please.

I'm glad you linked to this post, I missed it the first time around.

I will be purchasing this camera, thanks for the tip

Jessica, I love this camera. I've had it now for a month and shot my Christmas morning videos with it as well. I have a high end digital SLR, but you can't beat this for carry with you everywhere convenience.

I bought this camera recently because of the fact it had a wide angle build in. I couldn't be happier. I use it for staging photos and it is so effective at capturing the whole room without having to shoot from the hall or closet as I did previously. I am by no means savvy when it comes to electronics, but I know when something is easy to use and gives beautiful results. My only regret is that I didn't buy is sooner. I wish I could re-shoot some of my first projects.

Amanda... thank you for stopping by and adding your endorsement. For the real estate professional, I couldn't agree more. I have mine with me everywhere I go!

I've been using the P880 for the past 7 months, as a replacement for my canon SLR that took a 4 story trip to the pavement (long story, no insurance, very pissed :)

 

I’ve been extremely happy with the performance and the ability to use my hot shoe flash.  The 24mm lens is clear and bright. Vingeting is minimal just don’t use the lens shade!

I’ve updated the firmware and the auto focus is more than sufficient for RE Work.  My only real gripe is no cable release as I shoot at night a lot.  Battery life is not bad as I shot about 200+ shots a day and that is the top end.  I carry a car 12v inverter to keep AA & LI’s charged so I’m usually never dead on power.   A copy of Photoshop element helps fill out the kit as you need to watch those converging verticals.    

Great topic here. I enjoyed the conversation.

 Kodak makes good cameras that are idiot proof for the most part.  Although the Easy Share software is garbage IMHO.  

 Drew 

Andrew... thanks for joining the conversation. I am on a Mac, so I use iPhoto for all of my photo organization and Photoshop for any editing. I have never actually attempted to use the Kodak software. Thanks for the opinion on that.

Jeff - thanks for sharing this info with us.  I've been toying with the idea of a new camera for just the features you've mentioned here, and now it looks like I may have just the right one - all from your post.  Many thanks for this post!

Ann

Ann... truly my pleasure!!!

I'll definitely recommend this one to those who are looking for a wide angle camera. Yes, the shots are amazing....

As for me, I still cant part with my Canon Digital Rebel with the 10-20mm lens. (sorry)!!!

Thanks for the recommendation - I have had a number of agents ask recently for suggestions on what to purchase.  After reading your review and the other comments, now I have an answer.

 

David... let me know how they respond. Thanks!

Jeff - I was going to buy this camera on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000H8ZXWA?ie=UTF8&tag=realestatesho-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000H8ZXWA today but then I read all the reviews.  Some of them are really bad.   I would be using it for home staging b&A's.    I am really interested in the wide angle and in camera stitching feature.  Low light is also a problem I encounter frequently.  So just curious after a month of using the camera would you still recommend it?

100% I don't trust the reviews on Amazon. It's too easier for competitors to trash a product. There is no moderation and now way to know who the commenter really is. 

I was waiting for Jeff to reposond and will echo that thought. Those reviews are biased and normally are not accurate. I almost didnt buy a CD recorder once and bought it anyway and it's great. 

Dont believe the 'fake' hype..

Are the reviews saying this on other sites?? or only on amazon??    Jeff, how is it in low light?.. I'm curious because this may be my next camera.

As with many tasks, having the right tool for the job is important.  I tried the Kodak V705 for about a week and I thought it was well suited for indoor photography using the wide angle lens.  The indoor shots are well exposed using ambient light.  Jeff's pictures at the beginning of this post accurately show the comparison in exposure for both lenses.  One other thing I noticed is that the camera uses really high compression.  The file size for a photo on the V705 (7 megapixel camera) is about 1/3 of the size of a photo taken with a Canon SD700IS (6 megapixel camera).  This is what led me to do a side by side comparison of the photo detail for both cameras.  Viewing the photos on a screen so you can see the full image shows no significant differences in detail.  However, if you zoom in on the photos, there is a greater loss of detail in the photos from the V705 vs. the Canon.  If you are looking at the V705 as an all around point and shoot camera, I think it is an excellent choice especially because it has the wide angle lens that gives a definite advantage for indoor photography.  If you need to zoom in and crop your photos and also want to print oversized prints (say 20" by 30") then I think the loss of detail would be too visible.  For my application, where I needed better control of shutter speeds, the Kodak wasn't the right tool for me.  

OK Jeff - on your recommendation I bought it.  Does your range of influence ever surprise you or make you go hmmmm.  I know whenever someone emails me or comments about how something I suggested worked out for them or touched them in some way  - it sure makes me go hmmmm.

The camera should be here in a few days.  I'll let you know how I like it.  Thanks for your advice. 

I just ordered the Kodack v610 same wide angle but 10X optical zoom.  Hopefully its just as good as the v705 on the wide angle feature.

Jeff, thanks for this review and for a great product in RealEstateShows!!!

Jeff, how does the KodakC743 compare to the one you recommended? Just got this one for Christmas, our Sony Cybershot was lost in our move and I was just getting use to it.  I am new to AR and found this group today and needed the help for better shots. Thanks.

Joni, I've never used the camera, but I did a quick feature comparison. The main difference is that the KodakC743 does not have an ultra wide angle lens. So, shots of smaller rooms will suffer for sure. Hope that helps a bit.

 

That's exactly what I was afraid of.  We were planning on getting another one so thank you so much, in your business and mine the wide angle lens is essential for property viewing. 

Jeff, ordered the camera you recommended from Amazon.com.  It's exactly what I wanted and needed and at a very reasonable price.  Thanks.

Hey Jeff - I just got the camera and you were right it is great!  Here are some before and after shots: What is a picture really worth?

Maureen... well done!

I love my digital camera.  You have shown me the light, I need that wide angle lens.

Whatever wide angle lens capability you choose, the difference will show up immediately in your photos. You won't regret it.

Jeff, thanks so much for sharing! Anything that sheds a better light on my listings is money well spent... I'm out to get one today!

Ryan, come back and let us know how it works for you.

Hey Thanks for sharing this information Jeff.  I've been looking for a better camera and the sample shots you included certainly helped in the decision making.

Steve, be sure to take a look at Ines' post about this. Click Here.

There is a Kodak V570 and a v705. The only difference is the # of megapixels. You can buy the more expensive one but for Real Estate it isn't needed. Make sure NOT to buy the V610 series, it does NOT HAVE THE SAME WIDE ANGLE (a stager already made this mistake)

I bought 5 of the v570 cameras for all of my agents, they are a MUST have. But damn, Amazon just dropped the price to $150!

$150 on Amazon Kodak Kodak V570

 

 

Frank Borges LL0SA- Virginia Broker/ Owner FranklyRealty.com

Blog.FranklyRealty.com Featured in BusinessWeek, CNBC, WSJ etc.

                      

Frank... excellent!!!!! Thank you for adding this!

Jeff, received my camera this week.  The Amazon price was the lowest.  I love the design, sleek.  I have a redesign project coming up, I look forward to using the camera for the transformation.  The wide angle will capture the look I need.

Thanks, I wouldn't have gotten one so soon and kept the other Kodak but seeing is believing, no regrets.

I too am the proud owner of a Kodak V570.  I use it in my staging business and think it's the next best thing to sliced bread...  Why, in today's modern world, it took so long for a digital wide angled point&shoot camera to be invented is beyond me.  I'm just glad someone came up with the idea.

The only problem I sometimes encounter is 'soap-like bubbles' popping up in my photos.  The people at Kodak said it was due to small specks of dust which the flash picks up and the solution was to take the flash off.  Needless to say, I often end up with dark photos, which I can usually edit with the software. 

 Has anyone else experienced this problem?  Any solutions?

 

Joanne, I've only seen that in a few shots with the v705. I didn't think it was dust though, I assumed my house had ghosts.  :)

Hi Joanne, I dont have this camera, but here is a trick that may help if it's due to too much flash. I used to photograph 'shiny' objects up close and had to use flash. So to achieve the middle ground try this... get 'medical' tape, you know the white bandaging tape. Stick a piece over the flash to 'muffle' it. I'd leave it on my camera all the time. It wont entirely block it, but it will soften the brightness plenty. I was taking close ups, so maybe for a photo of a room it may muffle the flash to much. give it a try and let us know. :))

Interesting technique, Mr. Nick.

Thanks Nick for the advice.  Will definitely try it.

And Jeff, you can now sleep better at night....  Glad I could be of help!

Joanne, please let us know if it works. :)

Jeff.. you may be able to deduce what i was taking close up pics of.. (from our conversation).

; )

Well, wouldn't you know it.  Took many pictures and none of them came out with 'soap bubbles'. 

Nick, I did try the 'bandage over the flash' technique and found that the pics came out just as clear and bright.  So I'll keep that in mind should those annoying spots come back.

 

Update I was just one amazon and picked up th V705 with a 1 gig sd card for 230 the V570 has risen in price to I had been looking for a wide angle camera for a bit and it being priced around 200 didn't hurt. I think the original post put it at 299.

 

I am new to active rain and i am so hooked on it  

I've had good and bad experiences with this camera.  The wide angle lens and the video capabilities are almost worth it.  My main issue with this camera is with the soap bubbles it randomly puts on my pictures.  What is so frustrating is that you can't always see them on the display screen.  It's only after I've downloaded them to my PC that I notice them.  I know I'm not crazy, the other Stager I work with has the same issue with this model.  It's gotten to the point that I now bring 2 cameras to big jobs so I know I'll have pictures I can use.

Here's 2 samples of what I'm dealing with. It doesn't happen all the time, and sometimes not even in the same room! I'll trying putting tape over the flash to see if that stops it.

 

Angel, I know exactly how you feel!  I have ruined many of my staging photos with that problem.  Please let me know if the 'tape tip' works for you.  Good luck!

 Joanne

 

If the tape trick works, please send bubble gum and sour apple lollipops to my home address. thanks!

I've not experienced the "bubbles" in my shooting yet. I do think it is dust reflections, so it will be interesting to see if the tape idea helps the situation. 

Christy Powers here on AR just bought the 705  and has problems/questions.  Maybe you can think of some answers for her ... Here's her blog  http://activerain.com/blogsview/57748/I-followed-AR-advice

Cheryl, I did. Thank you for alerting me.

Jeff,

Thank you so much for sharing this information.  I liked the pictures you shared and I showed this information to my husband and guess what?  He is getting me this camera for my birthday.  It has already been ordered and we can't wait to get it.  I have a camara I use for real estate now but when I read what you said about this camara and the wide angle, I convenced my husband to get it for my work.  He has two other digital cameras but I still like what this Kodak camera can do.  Thanks again.

did the tape trick work?  i'm curious to know. also, does the 'soap bubble' normally happen in lower lighting or other specific circumstances?

Jeff, thanks for this post.  My next purchase is going to be the Kodak V705.  I'm now using the old Sony digital with the 3.5 floppy... It's definitely time to upgrade...

Nick, see my post of Feb. 27.

I took about 60 pictures of a staging I did today without the tape over the flash.  I just downloaded them and not one of them had the soap bubbles.  Keeping my fingers crossed that 'the' problem has gone away somehow.

Tim... no doubt. I had that same camera back in the day! :)

Joanne and Nick, thanks for keeping everyone up to date!

 

Jeff,Thanks for the post I've been cosidering the V705 or the V610 I'm leaning towards the 610 because of the 10 times optical zoom. I will give up 1 megapixel for that!!

Great Post!! I keep hearing all good stuff about these Kodak cameras my guess is they had to come up with a far greater digital camera at a good price point. Since they did lose a huge 35mm film market share. They are innovative and a smart company.

Good Day!! have a cup of java and a smile on me :)

Duayne, the V610 looks to rock as well. It's a bit more expensive, but for family and event shots, the 10x zoom will really add value. 

Duayne -- just remember, the V610 does NOT have the wide angle.  The widest angle on the V610 is 38mm.  The widest angle on the V705 is 23mm.   On the other hand the  V610 has the longest zoom at 380mm.  The longest that the V705 goes is 117mm. 

So the bottom line is, if you want wide angle, go with the V705.  If you want long zoom, go with the V610.

Excellent point, Cheryl!!!

Jeff,

I am going to best buy today to buy this camera. Thanks for doing all the research!

Tina, if you can test it out in the store, do so. I love it, but it's always best to check the "feel" for yourself.

 

Hey Jeff,

I just returned ordered my  new" Pink" Kodak v705. I really like black better but the pink was on sale for $229,000.  I did go to a Best Buy near me and they were out so I am just trusting your opinion.

Thanks for the input!

Tina

Okay, I did it.  I got mine brand new off eBay for $234 (total, with shipping) and it comes with a little case, a mini tripod (which I don't need, have one..oh well) and a 2GB memory card.  It is supposed to be here by next Wednesday.  I CAN'T WAIT THAT LONG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(I love cameras.  Love love love them...I have a feeling people in my office are gonna want to borrow mine!) 

Thanks for all the great input about this camera.  Just started training in real estate appraisal and was looking for the right camera so I googled "best camera for real estate appraisal" and this link came up.  I'm definitely going to get the V705.  I had been researching the P880, but it just seemed like way too much camera for me - the V705 sounds like the perfect fit!  Thanks again.

Cindy... what a great example of "the long tail." Nick, I have to believe it's your signature in these comments that did that. :)

Jeff,

The Kodak v705 has become quite a hit here on ActiveRain.

I just got the camera, and although I know quite a bit about photography, I am still learning about the specific features of this camera and how to use them.

You do a fantastic job on creating video tutorials.  I have just seen your post and video on Wufoo and it was excellent. 

I know you are busy, however I know you like to share.  You and Frank Llosa are probably the two most knowledgeable members of ActiveRain on the use of the v705.

Maureen Henry, Joelle Green, myself, and others would benefit if you provided some video tutorials on the use of this camera.

Here is a blog asking for v705 tutorials. 

Looking for v705 real estate tutorials

 

Jeff,

   Thanks for all the great info on the camera.

   I am in the market for a new camera and I appreciate you sharing your experiences with us.

   I will have to check the Kodak V705 out.

this page keeps loggin me out.. anyways..

Jeff, initially, my comment was going to be this.. "As much as i would like to take credit for helping that come up in the search engine, your opening paragraph is what did it.. openquote 'the best POINT AND SHOOT camera for the Real Estate Professional' with the bigger keywords in there.. (bolded for emphasis).'

then i searched 'best camera for real estate' and it didn't come up. so, i dont think so much that the sig tag did it, but then my other side of the brain says, hey!! there are no follow tags in this code, so its not the link to your profile.

alas, after the two brains were done debating the point. Jeff, you may be right. AGAIN!! :)

great insight. can i have a piece of that brain? ;)    i see you posted one on short tails and long tails. i will check it out later. i'm way behind. i feel like that kid that plugs the dam with one finger, then another, then another.. and it still leaks.   well, right now, i'm going to buy some C4 and blow the dam up!!

ps. butterflies!! lalalalala :)

later gator. and yes this is really the cool dude nick. sorry i can't figure out how to login. clues you into wher my head is at right now.. lalala butterfly!!!

EDIT.. whoa.. how am i able to come in and edit. hey is this a sick joke.  i'm going to stand in the corner now. bye bye butterfly

That is the other camera I thought about buying.  I ended up getting the Canon PowerShot A710 IS.

With the A710 IS you can add a wide angle, telephoto, waterproof casing, and more.  So as a working amateur photographer I thought in the end I would get more use out of the PowerShot.  Mainly I wanted a pocketable camera with more that 3x zoom. The PowerShot is 6x optical 24x digital.

Oh, btw, did I mention I have a wide angle Nikon D50 SLR for Real Estate or serious shooting.

Therefore, the Kodak is probably the best bet for most every realtor.

Keep Blogging!

Rob... thanks. Be sure to read through all the comments. I know there are a ton of them, but there's a lot of meat in the comments. 

Troy... the wide angle is what sold me, and the auto stitching of panoramic shots. Thanks for stopping in. 

Great Wide Angle Real Estate shots, a great improvement over our previous Kodak Digital Camera, DX 7590.

We really notice the improvement on real estate shots of small bathrooms, it shows the entire bathroom.

This is a no brainer, get this camera and always take it with you.  

 

 

Edwin... thank you for your input!

I've had a few cameras in my time and the Kodak Easyshare was definitely the easiest camera to use...and very light and small. I do have a problem with the batteries though...the life of the battery seems to drain quicker than any other cameras I've had. That is a really big problem in this industry when you are out and about all day...

I am loving my v705.  I used it to take pictures of the listing I put on one of my blogs.  I just need to learn how to fix the distortion that comes with the wide angle.

It's easy enough to use, and so compact.  It is a LOT of camera for the size 

Denise - I had the Kodak Easyshare camera also - mine used an odd type of battery also.  I could hardly take a dozen pics before the batteries were dead.  This Kodak v705 has a rechargeable battery and it lasts for a really long time. Sometimes more than 200 pics before it needs to be recharged.  Actually I have had mine a couple of months and I think I've only charged it twice.  I think they have come a long way from the old Easyshare ones.  

I echo Maureen's comments about battery life. I get upwards of 200 photos on a charge and I take lots of video with it as well, which uses more battery power. I think you'd be pleased.

Do any of the V series Kodak cameras come with any type of image stabilization? I was having trouble understanding the Kodak web site.

Brian... I believe they all do. I know this one does have it.

  

OMG....  I bought it and I LOVE IT, Thank you so much for the referral!

Kristie... that makes me very happy. 

I use this camera on a daily basis. We went to outfitting all our field guys with these as well.

Jeff..btw, i never came back to thank you for this advice. i got the v570 and its great!

my appraisal reports are looking better for both interior and exterior shots... and comps are very easy to shoot from the same side of the street. overall its made my comparable shooting safer! much safer!! (no more shooting from opposite side of street which is against traffic)

i wanted to thank you for the suggestion to buy this camera, Jeff. :)

i wouldn't have bought it otherwise. so much appreciated.

I bought an adon flash for my older Kodak camera that didn't work but I tried it on my new V705 and it works.  It is a small flash unit you can use to attach to your Kodak and give it some extra flash power.  It is on a swivel so you can point it up or sideways.  The neat thing is you can put it in a darker side of the room and when you take your picture with a flash it will flash.  It works fairly well.  The one I have is a Vivitar DF 120 Digital/Flash.  Got it on the web somewhere for around thirty bucks.  If you need a bit more lite or like to do bounce flash this is for you.  It will work on other cameras but it is hit or miss.

Ok, I figured that 114 replies to this post were not enough...so here I am...and happy to say I took Jeff's advice and just bought my V705 on eBay.  I was prepared for what to expect in terms of features, but goodness...I had no idea it would be so small!  I'm afraid of losing it!  ;)

I'm looking forward to posting some great B&A's shots in the future...thanks for the tip Jeff!

Susan

Susan... if you still have your old camera, I'd love to see some comparison shots. :)

Hi Jeff...you got it!  I'll see what I can do!  (btw - I got through the entire manual during my hair appt yesterday...it's sooooo easy to use!).  My hair dresser is going to get one too.  He was very impressed!

Susan - be sure to post your results in the Photography group.  It could use some fresh blood. ;)

Susan... HIS photos are the ones we probably really want to see. :)

Maureen... amen to that. 

Ha ha ha!  Maybe next time (NOT).  What happens at the salon, STAYS at the salon! (Although I did make a movie on my V705 while I was there, just to check it out - don't tell the other clients, though!).

Ok, I posted my pics this am. Enjoy!

Susan

Better late then never, right?  Thanks for the post and pictures.  Do you know anyone that wants to buy a Cannon Powershot SD 500 with a broken screen?? :)

Anyway.....I finally purchased the V705 2 days ago on Ebay.  I can't wait to get my hands on this camera.  I feel like a kid the night before Christmas!

Oh... you're going to be happy. :)

That looks like a very cool camera. I just received a Nikon D80 for my birthday and am learning to use. Do you have any tips for me?

Great photos, but I really love my Kodak and would not trade it in. It works well for me.

Angelica... my best advice is to invest in a really good wide angle lens... or spend hundreds and hundreds and hundreds less and buy this little camera. 

Bill and Barbara... I hear you. Just for fun, take a look at Susan Smith's comparison photos.  http://activerain.com/blogsview/154855/What-a-difference-the

Jeff, I googled Kodak V705 looking for places to possibly buy one and guess what was on page one of the search....your post!! Very Cool!!

Pam... now that is hilarious. You'd think Kodak could outgun ActiveRain!

I'm just starting my staging business and have been wondering which camera I should buy. Thanks Jeff...now I know!

Anya... you'll be thrilled with the results of this little camera.

Jeff - just ordered mine today on tigerdirect for $199. I'm anxious to see how I like it.

I have the v570 and it is very similar but not quite as advanced.  I have been pleased and am planning on adding the newer model soon.

Sam... I don't know how big a difference you will see, other than megapixels. 

Tom... come back and tell us how you like it.

Jeff Jeff Jeff!!!

Ok being in Canada, and searching for weeks for this camera, I GOT MY DELIVERED TODAY! I am completely giddy over it...silly I know. I have a home staged, I am heading there as soon as the battery is charged, and probably going to try some shots at dusk too.

And yes, the booklet it comes with, wow, pretty much nothing is helpful in there (took me 5 mins to figure out the usb cable)  But I do have the PDF file saved, thankfully.

Now one question, how do I switch it to wide angle?

Btw, you must be one of the most helpful bloggers on here, I am addicted to your how-to-videos. Good idea for the people who need to see it, to understand it!

You rock!

Heather

Mine came on in wide angle as soon as it turned on.  You go back and forth with the zoom switch.  Its pretty much seamless.  If you are watching the screen you will see a big jump when it switches to wide angle.  I think it goes from 35mm to 24mm which is a big jump.

Hi Gene, I just spotted that. Bare with me, I am pretty much technology challenged. But thank you none the less!

Heather

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3K Digital Camera  waht do you think of this one Jeff?  I would love your input.

C'mon Jeff,

you are going to put me out of business  :)

Kristie,  I recommended the TZ3 to another agent in my area and she loves it.  The quality is great and it has quite a zoom lens in it (from 28-280mm).  The FX55 doesn't have the long telephoto side, but it does have the same 3" LCD on the back.  And the FX100 puts out 12MP files.

I've been looking for a compact, wide angle camera...... Looks like I found the right one.  Thanks!

 

Lisa, you found a V705?  Where?

Jeff I am busting to get this camera. I ordered it on Buy.com and got a GREAT deal, but they were not able to fill the order so I am out and about looking again. To date no one seems to have it.

By the way I just did my free trial Real Estate show for the very first time and I LOVE IT. Just have not been able to download to AR as yet. BUT I have emailed realtors and I am asking if they are interested in using this as part of their marketing plan in 2008. I will let you know how it goes. But I am interested in joining. WHAT A GREAT THING, thanks sooo much

Phyllis Pafumi 

I heard this camera was discontinued...

ILW

Yes, it is discontinued.  You'll have to buy it on eBay.

Yes, it is discontinued.  You'll have to buy it on eBay.

Discontinued, just my luck... but that does explain why I could'nt find it anywhere other than e-bay.  So does anyone know of a similar camera in function, form and price? Is the V570 a good alternative or should I just get it on e-bay while I still can?

Lisa, you can read my blog about the discontinued V705 and possible alternatives.  The only camera with a similar lens is the Richo GX100.  It has a 24mm lens and the cost is around $550.  This camera puts out 10MP photos and has a larger sensor which contributes to its higher price, but the quality should be much better as well.

The next step is a DSLR with a wide angle lens which will run you around $1,000, but again we are talking about even better picture quality.

Lee.. thanks for the link! I'm going to check out the Richo GX100.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3K Digital Camera  after purchacing the V705 and using the crap out if for a year, the joystick went bad and deamed the camera pretty useless since that controls the whoe thing, So.....I  just ordered the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3K Digital Camera  and i am so excited, i can wait, it does every thing that i need and more... at under $300, wide angle , awesome zoom and all the bells and whistles....

 

I recommended the TZ3 to a friend of mine and she loves it.  I have to admit, it's a pretty awesome camera.

Has anyone tried using those "Wide Angle Magnet Lens" as an alternative to getting another camera?  If so what do you think?

Thanks for the suggestions, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3K Digital Camera looks like a good alternative, does anyone have hands on experience with it?

Oh, I may have found a site other than e-bay that still has a few V705's in stock for only $249.  I'll let you know if it works out.

I got it and i love it, it is so clear and precise. small and usefull

defiantly a great camera,

and it has the under water case for all you adventurous people

All... I can tell from the photos in this review of the DMC-TZ3K that it's "wide angle" lens is not going to compare to the Kodak v705. 

http://www.digitalcamerareview.com/default.asp?newsID=3065&review=panasonic+lumix+dmc-tz3

When I return from Inman, I'm going to be contacting Kodak to find out the scoop on the v705.

Jeff -  I gave Tami a note for Christmas that she could choose a camera (within reason, of course). Brother Rob immediately told her to choose the v705 which she did. Then - the heartbreak. I couldn't find it anywhere since it had been discontinued - all of the websites that said they had it, didn't. Before going to eBay I sent off a post to the CyberStar listserve asking if anyone had one they wanted to sell - in 10 minutes I had bought one. Tami loves it!  For others - do try eBay, they have several v570s every day and the occasional v705.

Hi Jeff,

The Kodak V705 was just presented to me for my 45th birthday by my parents. I shot three listing last Saturday for some agents in my office and emailed the RES flyers to some photographer friends. The panorama feature is amazing. I shoot Benson Horse Property in Arizona. I work for Tierra Antigua Realty. You have had a tremendous impact on my career. Hope to see you someday in Arizona.

 

John Hurbon

The v705 is on sale at pricegrabber.com for $250 with shipping, but it's the European model, so you'll need to buy a cheap travel adapter to convert to the US style plugs.

Great find!

Any more recent cameras to be checking into?

Thank you for this info..  Does this camera also have video recording potential and if so, is it qualty as well?

The Panasonic Lumix FX35 has a 25mm lens and will shoot HD video.

Thanks for the tips, great photos.

Does this posting set a record from the date of the original posting to ........ the last response?

I got so excited about the camera v750 in the begining and almost cried when I got to the end of the postings.

I'll watch and wait for your next recomendation

Jeff, inquiring minds want to know, how do you do all that you do :-)

cool bubble guru!

bubble guru is kinda creepy...  :)

see now I must go look at it. What have you done.

I believe I may have found my replacement recommendation for the Kodak v705.

http://res.realestateshows.com/panasonic-lumix-fx35-vs-kodak-v705/ 

I did a little article about the FX 35 and it does take some good pictures.  I am looking forward to purchasing one for myself.

Jeff, You wrote this post in November 2006. Do you still reccomend this carmera or is there a newer version?

Margaret, I linked to a new post two comments above, but here it is again:

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 vs Kodal v705

Jeff, Am going to check this one out! Thanks for the link

Old post, but the pictures look great.  My camera is working well, but it doesn't do the panoramic shots.  I was reading about the Lumix as well.  Need to upgrade.

Jeff, I will have to look into this. Thanks for posting!

Certainly looks like a good one for agents

hi Jeff OK...... LOL It took me forever to read all these comments until someone mentioned  it was an old post

do you feel the same way?   I will click on the new link and see what that was all about   I gave myself a head ache concentrating on these comments and your response.   so....here I go again with the new link. Next  time I better check the year of he pos.t.. huh ?

Definately flash on dust - contacted Panasonic and they referred me to page 111 of FX35 User Manual. Took it back - so many indoor photos at children's party ruined totally by this crazy design defect - relates to focal length of lens and extreme wide angle. AVOID FX35. Wait for the FX150 - just out. 27mm rather than 25mm - may be better. Look forward to trying it out.....

Big Difference.

I also have been trying to determine the best camera for a real estate agent.  Given the stated criteria, I would have to agree that the FX35 would be the best choice.  I've used the LX3 and if you are willing to spend around $500, I think it's as good as it gets in a compact digital camera for real estate agents.  The problem is that giving (or recommending) a good camera to a real estate agent would be tantamount to handing a for sale sign to your seller and saying, "Good luck."  There's a lot more to selling a house than putting the sign in the yard and there's a lot more to photography than pointing and shooting.  If you are not willing to learn at least something about photography, then hire a professional photographer.  If you are willing to learn about photography, then the FX35 would be a good camera to get started on.  You will soon realized some of the advantages of having the LX3, but it wouldn't take you long to see the huge advantages a DSLR will give you, then there are accessories like a tripod, strobes, reflectors and filters.  Wouldn't it be easier and wouldn't you get better results from a pro?  Okay, photography has become an obsession with me and I'm willing to go all the way when it comes to equipment and learning techniques, but it takes a lot of time.  Just keep that in mind.

Thanks for the tip with the camera.  I need to upgrade to a new one hopefully next year.

Jeff, I just discovered the p880. It is supposedly a 24mm. Can that be? Only 1 mm less than the v570 and it has a huge lens (ie sharper)

Also you might like to see this:

VIDEO WIDE ANGLE comparison.

Frank

Hubba...

No response needed. I don't feel like playing in the rain but I do need my quota for the day.

Expect to see me on your blog 10 times :)

TLW...ROAR!

You're killin' me. Looks like something exploded in my email inbox. :)