The Kodak KB 20 is a compact camera. It was introduced by Eastman Kodak in the late 1990s and is part of the KB series. It is honestly aimed at beginners and amateurs.
The 35mm photo camera comes with a fixed focal length lens. The lens is named “Ektanar Lens 30mm f/8” and is composed of two elements. A slider on the front opens the lens cover. The lens behind it has a focal length of 30mm. The focus of the lens is fixed and cannot be changed. The close focus distance of the lens is 1.2 m.
In addition to the aperture and focus, the shutter speed is also the same for every shot. The camera exposes each frame at 1/100 second. The sensitivity of the film is only important for the flash. The sensitivity is read out via the DX code of the cartridge and the power is set accordingly. Films with an ISO value of 100, 200 and 400 are supported.
The built-in flash reaches up to three meters at ISO 100. It is triggered every time the shutter button is pressed. The flash cannot be switched off. Two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are responsible for the power supply. These batteries are also necessary for the automatic film transport.
According to the user manual, the dimensions of the Kodak KB 20 are 13.4 x 7.2 x 4.4 cm. At the same time, it weighs 179 grams with its plastic housing.
Films for the Kodak KB 20
The Kodak KB 20 was built for the 35mm format. 35mm films are still produced today and are quite easy to get. A good choice for the Kodak KB 20 is the Kodak Ultramax 400* (color film) and the Ilford XP2 Super* (black and white film). Both films can be used to take beautiful pictures at parties, weddings, or on vacation. Both versions also have a wide exposure latitude and can be slightly underexposed or overexposed. Therefore, they are suitable for shooting outdoors, but also indoors.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 30 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 120 cm / 3.936 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Exposure times | 1/100 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,2 to 3 Meter / 3.94 to 9.84 Feet |
| Flash sync speed | 1/100 s |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 13,4 x 7,2 x 4,4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.28 x 2.83 x 1.73 inches |
| Weight | 179 Grams |
FAQ about the Kodak KB 20
How do I focus the camera?
The Kodak KB 20 has a fixed focus lens. You don't need to adjust it; it's designed to be simple to use. The focus is preset for a range that works well in most situations.
What kind of batteries does this small camera need?
The Kodak KB 20 uses two standard AA batteries. These power the camera's functions, including the automatic film advance.
Can I control the shutter speed on the KB20?
No, the shutter speed is fixed at 1/100th of a second on the Kodak KB 20. This is a feature of its simplicity and ease of use for beginners.
What type of film does this compact camera use?
The KB20 uses standard 35mm film. You can use color or black and white film, with ISO speeds of 100, 200, and 400.
How far does the flash reach?
The built-in flash on the Kodak KB 20 has a range of up to three meters at ISO 100. It automatically fires with each picture; you can't turn it off.