The Kodak KB 30 is a camera from Kodak. The model was introduced in the late 90s and is part of the KB series. The members of this series were aimed more at amateurs and beginners. They are easy to use and were affordable at the time. Two important points for this target group.
The Kodak KB 35 was another variant of this model. The KB 35 comes with a so-called data back. Among other things, a clock is built into the back panel. If desired, the current time can be imprinted into the image when the picture is taken.
The 35mm photo camera comes with a fixed lens. The focal length of the lens is 30 mm. The maximum aperture is f/8. The focus of the lens is fixed, so there is no need to wait for autofocus. The closest focusing distance is specified as 1.2 m for this lens.
The camera can be used with films with a sensitivity of ISO 100, 200 and 400. The sensitivity is read out via the DX coding (black stripes) on the film cartridge. Adjustment options regarding aperture and shutter speed are not available on this model. The shutter speed is always 1/100 second. The sensitivity read out is therefore only used for the strength of the built-in flash.
The Kodak Sensalite flash has a power of up to 3 meters with an ISO 100 film. With an ISO 400 film, the range is just under six meters. The readiness of the flash is indicated by a light on the back. The flash can be used in a fill-in flash mode or turned off completely. Additionally, there is a red-eye prevention mode.
According to the manual, the dimensions of the Kodak KB 30 are 13.4 x 7.2 x 4.4 cm. It weighs 185 grams with its plastic housing. Two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are responsible for the power supply. For self-portraits and group pictures, there is a thread for a tripod and a self-timer. The self-timer has a lead time of eight seconds.
Films for the Kodak KB 30
The power from the AA batteries is also used to power the motor for film transport after shooting. According to the manual, the Kodak KB 30 is designed for 35mm film. A nice choice for color images of the Kodak Gold 200* and for B&W images of the Ilford Delta 400*. Both films are well suited for everyday use, as they are very flexible and deliver solid results.
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 |
| Biggest 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 | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,2 Meter - 3 Meter |
| Flash modes | Red-eye reduction |
| Flash sync speed | 1/100 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 8 seconds lead time |
| 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 | 185 Grams |