The Kodak Cameo Zoom is a snapshot camera. It was built by Kodak in Taiwan from 1993 to 1995. The 35mm camera was also available on the market under the brand "Kodak Cameo Zoom Plus".
The 35mm camera comes with a fixed zoom. The photographer can choose between a focal length in the range of 25 mm to 50 mm. The maximum aperture depends on the zoom setting and goes from f/8 to f/11, which is also the only aperture setting. Just like the aperture, the focus cannot be changed.
There are also no choices for the shutter speed. The camera takes all pictures at 1/100 second. For this reason the Kodak does not need a light meter.
But there are some selectable modes. There is a mode for portraits, continuous shooting, panoramas (inserted bars simulate a panorama look), an infinity mode for landscape shots and a fill-flash mode.
There is a built-in flash for low light shots. Power is supplied by a CR 123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). The automatic flash cannot be switched off.
The Kodak Cameo Zoom has a thread for a tripod and a self-timer. A version of the 35 mm camera with data back was also offered. This back plate enables the exposure of the date of capture into the negative.
Films for the Kodak Cameo Zoom
The Kodak Cameo Zoom is designed for 35mm format according to the operating instructions. Films of this format are still easily available today and are still being developed. For taking pictures Kodak recommends a sensitivity of ISO 400. A nice choice for color images of the Kodak Ultramax 400* and for B/W images of the Ilford HP5*. The negatives of the 35mm camera have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. The film in the camera is automatically rewound to the next frame.
The Kodak Cameo Zoom is no longer manufactured. The condition and scope of delivery determine the price. The value of a copy is in the single-digit to low two-digit Euro range.
