The Kodak KB 22 is a 35mm camera. The model was introduced in the early 2000s and was honestly aimed at beginners and occasional users. It doesn’t have a very high-quality build, was on the lower price end, and is easy to use.
Like most functions of the camera, the lens is fixed. 30 mm is the focal length of the lens, there is no zoom. The maximum aperture is f/8, and there is no autofocus either. The lens is fixed and cannot be changed. To get sharp pictures, you have to be at least 1.2 meters away from your subject.
The shutter speed (1/100 s) is also fixed and cannot be changed. Only the power of the flash is variable. To prevent overexposure of the images, the camera’s automatic system selects the power according to the sensitivity of the film. The sensitivity is automatically read from the DX code of the film cartridge. This works for ISO 100, ISO 200, ISO 400, and ISO 800; in general, Kodak recommends ISO 400 film for use with the camera.
The built-in flash fires with every shot and cannot be turned off. The power reaches up to 2.8 meters at ISO 100. It takes around five seconds with fresh batteries until the flash is ready, which is signaled via a light on the back. Two AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are needed for power.
The camera comes with a plastic housing. Measuring 11.7 x 6.7 x 4 cm, the Kodak KB 22 weighs 169 grams, according to the user manual.
Films for the Kodak KB 22
35mm films are exposed in the Kodak KB 22. 35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. Possible films for the Kodak KB 22 are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color photos and the Ilford Delta 400* for B&W photos. Both films are good for taking pictures on vacation or in everyday life.
After each shot, the film must be manually rewound to the next frame using a thumbwheel on the back. After about 36 shots, the film is full and can be rewound. This step is also manual. The film can then be removed and taken to the developing lab. The color film is a negative film and is processed in the C-41 development process. The black and white film must be developed in a black and white developer.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| 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 800 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,2 to 2,8 Meter / 3.94 to 9.19 Feet |
| Flash sync speed | 1/100 s |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AAA batteries |
| Size | 11,7 x 6,7 x 4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.61 x 2.64 x 1.57 inches |
| Weight | 169 Grams |
FAQ about the Kodak KB 22
Is the Kodak KB 22 camera easy to use, even for beginners?
Yes, the Kodak KB 22 is designed for beginners and casual users. Its operation is simple and straightforward, making it accessible to anyone.
Does this simple camera have an autofocus?
No, the Kodak KB 22 doesn't have autofocus. The lens is fixed, and you need to be at least 1.2 meters from your subject for sharp images.
Can I adjust the flash on the KB22?
No, the flash automatically fires with every shot and cannot be turned off. However, its power adjusts automatically based on the film's ISO speed to prevent overexposure.
What kind of film does the Kodak KB 22 use and how many shots can I take?
It uses 35mm film. You can take approximately 36 shots before the film needs to be manually rewound and removed for developing.
What are the camera's dimensions and weight?
The Kodak KB 22 is compact, measuring 11.7 x 6.7 x 4 cm and weighing 169 grams according to the manual. It's lightweight and portable.