Reviews for Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

1.5" LCD - 2x Optical Zoom - 2160 x 1440 Image - MPN: 1147164

  • 4
  By member: obstinatesod - Apr 13, 2004

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: If the light is good the photographs are really good I have a website built with nearly all DX3900 pics for a visual example go to www.shetlandscenes.co.uk 10"X 8" prints no problem.

Weakness: View finder blocked by telephoto lense , Dock not supplied, flash is poor over 6ft. would prefer LCD disply of photo to be optional to save battery.

I would recomend this camera to anyone wanting to get into photography ,lots of features to experiment with,picture quality is very good in the right conditions , good night shots with exposure compensation settings.Sepia and Black & White work well. 2x telephoto blocks viewfinder and unless fully zoomed it leaves a black ring on the photo. file size range from 3.1 million pixels to 0.8 burst. well worth the money.

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  • 5
  By member: charger62 - Jan 2, 2003

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Easy to use and takes great pictures!

Weakness: optical zoom not enough

I got this camera last Christmas and I have taken over 2000 pictures. the software it comes with is great for editing my digital or 35mm pictures.The quality of the pictures are outstanding. Really no need for more than 3 megapixels!I took it with me to New York and took over 700 pictures.I printed only the pictures I wanted and put the rest on disk. I have also used this to take pictures of my children playing sports and the pictures look professional.I only wish that the optical zoom was higher. Even though with the software I can still zoom in and crop the pictures for better closeups.I have friends who have bought other digital cameras with higher megapixels who also paid alot more and their pictures are not any better. I like that all you have to do is put it in the dock and press a button and your pictures are transfered. I would highly reccommend this camera to anyone.

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  • 2
  By member: hldonnelli - May 24, 2004

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: This camera takes great pictures outside because there is plenty of light. It takes good pictures inside with the flash as long as there is absolutely no movement.

Weakness: Any action shots are blurry. I took great pictures of my daughter until she started moving. Now all pictures are blurry and Kodak's "solution" to this problem does not work.

I have a fine arts degree and have a lot of experience with digital cameras and SLR cameras. This one was a gift, and I am now searching for a digital camera with more manual functions, because the DX3900 is lacking. Any poor lighting situation prevents a good shot, while any movement prevents a crisp shot. It's frustrating to lose moment after moment because the shutter speed can not keep up with the subject. I do not reccommend this camera.

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  • 4
  By member: diamondgirl5 - Apr 27, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Easy to use, very nice quality pictures, easy to transfer to your computer with the optional dock.

Weakness: The 8MB card is only able to store 7 pictures at 3.1 resolution. A 32MB card would be better. Viewfinder is a little dim in bright outdoor light.

I bought this camera in November 2001 & have been using it for 5 months. The manual gives easy to understand instructions for all camera features. Kodak's web site has good support with updated software. It is also easy to update the firmware for the camera itself using the dock. I heartily recommend the dock. All you need to do to download your pictures is put the camera in the dock & hit one button. The dock transfers the pictures & recharges the batteries, which are included with the dock. If you are taking a lot of indoor pictures with flash, (or use the display rather than the viewfinder, such as when you use the digital zoom) you will appreciate the rechargable batteries, as you will go through them quickly. Another option that I purchased is the $39.95 Travel Kit, which includes a travel charger, camera case, a rechargable battery pack plus plug adapters for use in other countries. The charger comes in handy when you're going to be away from your computer for awhile & you need to recharge your batteries. This is a great camera for the price of $349 & a good choice for 1st time digital camera users.

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  • 3
  By member: Manuel_A - Sep 2, 2003

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Excellent picture quality, color, brightness..Easy to use camera and software. I loved the interchangeability of the CompacFlash with my MP3 player

Weakness: The weekeness I found is not the camera, but the KODAK company policy. please see comments.

I went on a cross country trip stopping first at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon around sunset. All the pictures I snapped where blank. I formatted the card (s) I have 3 of them and same results. I tried taking pictures again a few days later and was able to get a few in between the blank ones, but they were all blurry. Batteries are good, try new ones etc.

Called Kodak they had me do what I had done, of course it was the same results. Now here is the problem I have with Kodak. First, I understand that electronic devices can and will break down at one time or another.

Kodak has a policy where they charge a FLAT $150.00 to take a look at the camera and fix it, whatever is wrong with it. Of course I can trade it in for newer REFURBISHED model the DX4330 for $179.00 or the DX6340 for $229.00.

I am really displeased at this point because I found these two cameras brand new(Thanks to PriceGrabbers) for just a few dollars more. I also found the DX3900 for $202.00. Now why should I pay KODAK $150.00 to fix mine when I can by a new one for $52.00 more, that is if I really one to stay with Kodak. I guess it is time I when with the Nikon Coolpix 5700 which is what I always wanted in the first place.

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  • 3
  By member: harmonyroz - Jan 28, 2003

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Easy to use, quick upload, excellent pictures! Additional lenses to attach make it a wonderful digicam.

Weakness: Had to return for service twice! Batteries run out quickly.

I've had to send the camera in for service twice because the internal mechanism for the mode dial became defective, and the camera stopped taking pictures, only black images (hasn't returned from service yet). The batteries run out rather quickly. Otherwise, I have been very happy with the camera. It takes excellent quality pictures in a snap and was very easy to learn how to use. The optional lens accessories made it my first choice so I could take close up pix as well as wide angle shots. The camera dock makes for quick battery charging and ease of uploading. I have recommended it to many people and still would if it weren't for this second return to service.

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  • 4
  By member: sweetandshort32 - Dec 10, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: THIS CAMERA HAS BEEN SO EASY TO USE WE WERE ABLE TO TAKE IT OUT AND USE IT RIGHT AWAY BECAUSE OF THE EASE. THE PICTURES ARE THE CLEAREST I'VE EVER SEEN

Weakness: THE DOCKING STATION IS SOLD SEPERATELY AND SOMETIMES I HAVE TO TAKE IT OUT AND TRY TO UPLOAD THE PICTURES MORE THAN ONCE

OVERALL THIS CAMERA HAS BEEN SO EASY FOR US 1ST TIME DIGITAL USERS. WE LOVE IT SO MUCH,THAT WE GOT ONE FOR EACH OF THE KIDS FOR CHRISTMAS. WE JUST WISH THEY CAME WITH THE DOCKING STATIONS SO THEY DIDN'T HAVE TO BUY THEM LATER. WE WOULD RECOMMEND THEM FOR ANYONE WANTING GOOD CLEAR PICTURES AND EASE OF USE.

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  • 4
  By member: trader4300 - Jul 31, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Ease of use, picture quality, downloading

Weakness: battery, mode selector switch

After thoroughly reviewing digital cameras in the 3 megapixel range, I am glad I settled on the Kodak 3900. I did not even need the user manual. Walking through the menus provided all the information the user needs - very nice user interface. The docking station provides a means to charge the battery as well as a means to download software without any hassle. I like this! The camera does not come with any power adapter, so it relys strictly on battery power. The first charge lasted the longest, and the uses keeps getting shorter on every charge. I also found that the rotary switch on top of the camera can easily twist without you knowing it and the mode can switch into "review" mode thereby diminishing the already weak batterys. A recessed pushbutton selector would have been a better choice by the designers. None-the-less, a great value for the first time digital camera enthusiest. By the way, the picture quality is great and it provides you with enough gizmos to play around. I did find that by leaving it in AUTO takes the best pictures.

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  • 3
  By member: allasmiles - Jul 6, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Easy to use. Great pictures. Has optional accessories to meet the needs of different styles of photographers...

Weakness: Using the optional Lenses cause a shadow to appear on pictures when the flash is used. Also, because the lense covers 1/3 of the front of the camera, the viewfinder is blocked and can not be used.

Great camera for the average photographer. If you like using lenses to get a wide variety of shots, you may want to shop around. I love the camera and use it to take great pictures several times a week. However, I would not have purchased it if I knew the design of the position of the Lenses, viewfinder, and Flash were so poor,

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  • 1
  By member: ffejes - Jun 8, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: As a novice photographer I find this easy to use and like the pictures

Weakness: With the camera, none; with the downlaod software and technical support from Kodak, a lot

I aRte the overall product (camera and software) very poor. While the camera is great I found I could not download pictures from the dock. I called Kodak twice it took about 2-3 minutes to get through all the phone menus before you're put on hold for 20 minutes. (Even though I had a case number it didn't seem to do any good, I still had to go through all the menus and then had to explain to the tech staff the problem from scratch) The tech support staff seems to be very uneven in assistance. They couldn't solve the problem after two tries and promised to get back to me next week. So I have a great camera but no pcutures. I'm thinking of returning it and starting all over. I like the camera, but the tech support is very poor.

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  • 4
  By member: theobart - May 17, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Easy to use,docking station is the way to go. Pictures are clear and realistic. Tech support is top notch

Weakness: should come with at least 16 to 32 Mb memory

For a first time user or a second time ,cant go wrong with this 3.1 Mp camera.The pictures are as good as any that i have seen on several other Digital cameras.

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  • 4
  By member: NewWriter87 - Apr 3, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Ease of use. Size. The way the on/off switch is located and the fact that it also operates the lens cover. The picture transfer hardware and software when used with the dock.

Weakness: The camera only has one strap attachment. The way the camera eats batteries. No plug in for a portable power pack. The location of the shutter button. And the cheap plastic door over the memory card.

I'm not a "professional photographer", but I produce a monthly newletter for a 700 member association. Which means I take lots of photos at conventions. I went digital because it allowed me to shoot an average of 500 photos at a convention and pick the 10 or 12 best without having to spend money developing film. The DX3900 is my second digital, bought it when I wore out my first digital camera.
I'm pleased with it, and while it does have some weak points, overall it's a fine camera for what I do. It takes good pictures, is reasonably fast processing a shot, and with a 64 meg card has enough memory for a few hours of shooting. 5 cards lasted me all weekend. I only wish the batteries lasted that long. This thing eats batteries when used indoors in low light. I finally went out and bought a couple of bulk packs of alky batteries, because 120 of them were cheaper than two lithium batteries. I want a port for an AC adaptor. Would make this a wonderful camera.
The other change I'd make is the strap attachment. I'd prefer two attachment points so I could hang it around my neck. Or if the attachment point was on the other side, it would be better, because I have to shake a lot of hands. Don't really like letting the camera hang while having someone work my hand like they were trying to pump water, eh!
All that aside, I recommend this camera for use by all amatures and some prosumers. I've taken some shots that are well worth printing and hanging in expensive frames.

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  • 5
  By member: curleycat - Mar 27, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Ease of use; Takes great pics just by pointing & shooting; Easy Share Dock makes downloading pics a snap & recharges the camera; great price for a great camera.

Weakness: The option to delete a picture after it's taken is too short but hardly makes a difference after the first time you use it & get the hang of it.

I'm a first time digital camera owner but I need extensive research on them before deciding on the DX3900. I've been more than pleased with its performance and has all the options anyone but an advance user would want. Also, Kodaks website has some great tricks & tips to get the most out of this camera. A MUST HAVE item!

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  • 5
  By member: PORKYYOGI - Jan 26, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: THIS CAMERA IS VERY EASY TO USE. THE MANUAL IS VERY WELL WRITTEN TO LEARN HOW TO USE THE CAMERA. TAKES GREAT PICTURES.

Weakness: THE ONLY THING I DON'T LIKE ABOUT THE KODAK IS THAT THEY DON'T PACKAGE THE CAMERA WITH THE DOCK. YOU NEED THE DOCK TO RECHARGE THE BATTERY. SHOULD BE PACKAGED WITH MORE MEMORY.

OVERALL, THIS CAMERA IS ONE OF THE BEST ON THE MARKET TODAY.
IT IS VERY EASY TO USE, HAS A WELL WRITTEN MANUAL THAT MAKES THE CAMERA THAT MUCH EASIER TO LEARN HOW TO USE. MOST MANUALS ARE PATHETIC. THE ONLY WEAKNESS I COULD SEE ABOUT THIS CAMERA IS THAT KODAK SHOULD PACKAGE THE DOCK WITH THE CAMERA AND GIVE THE CONSUMER MORE COMPACT FLASH MEMORY FOR THE AMOUNT OF MONEY YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR THE CAMERA. IF YOU ADD THE DOCK, WHICH YOU DO NEED TO RECHARGE THE BATTERY, AND MORE COMPACT FLASH MEMORY, THE TOTAL COST FOR THE CAMERA CAN COST YOU $500 OR MORE.

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  • 5
  By member: PuppyTeach - Jan 25, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Easy to use. Easy transfer of digital images with the Easyshare Dock. Compact size.

Weakness: no internal memory.

I bought my DX3900 in Nov. I have truly enjoyed using it. It is simple to use, and the images are Fantastic!! The price is reasonable for a 3.+ megapixel camera. I love this camera, and Highly Reccommend it to anyone who wishes to take High Quality Digital Images without paying an arm and a leg!!!!! The optional EashShare Dock is a MUST HAVE! It makes transfering your images to your computer a breeze! A simple push of the button, and your images are downloaded! As well, keeping the DX3900 in the docking station, keeps the batteries charged!!!!Ease of use, exceptional image quality, and Fun to use! this is a MUST HAVE Camera!!!

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  • 5
  By member: ds6254 - Jan 3, 2002

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Simplicity of use, clear bright pictures, docking station , battery life, easyshare system.

Weakness: LCD display, included software.

After buying my mother a DX3600 for thanksgiving (xmas), I found the product easy to use and with quality results,so I bought one myself -- DX3900.

The DX3900 is very easy to use, gives excellent pictures, and the megpixel with optical zoom price cannot be beat. The camera is very simple to utilize with synchronization with the optional dock one of its best points --- you synch and automatically recharge the batteries at the same time. The options are limited but include most used by novice to moderate users --- advanced users would probably be disappointed, but most ordinary users would not be. The easy share software is easy to use and quickly enables the sharing of photos via printer, email, or Kodaks ingenious Ofoto website --- i actually ordered a print framed sent to my best friend.

The only items that could be improved would be the LCD which is washed out in bright outdoor light, and the included photo mod software which is very limited in what you can do to your pics (but very simple and easy to use).

Overall, I highly recommend it to someone who wants to explore digital photography or someone who wants an easy to use camera system with excellent picture quality. The price is definately hard to beat... excellent results yet affordable.

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  • 4
  By member: BigW25 - Dec 25, 2001

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: The menu is easy to use and get around with. The camera is easy to use with your pc or lap top to down load the pictures onto. Printed pictures look great at lower resolutions.

Weakness: Not all features that other cameras may have at the same price.

We enjoy our new camera, it's so much better that using film and then losing it before taking it to be developed! It's easy to use for anyone, you don't have to be technically blessed to be able to use it. I don't know anything about computers and such and still have an easy time using this camera and down loading the pictures onto my computer for emailing to family and friends and for printing. Now all I have to do is go on vacation to have something to take a good picture of!

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  • 5
  By member: cmerighe - Dec 24, 2001

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Easy to use, very easy and fast to transfer pictures to PC, great resolution with any light.

Weakness: Weak optical zoom, but not a show stopper when you look at the images it captures.

I purchased the Kodak DX3900 a couple of weeks ago, and I have already taken over 100 pictures with it. I love the camera.
Pros: Great pictures, very easy to use, compact, lightweight, etc.
Recommendation: YES, the pictures speak for themselves, and take a look at some of the pictures I have taken with them here. Talking the walk, here are my pictures with the camera:
FIRST: As soon as I got the camera, I used the getting started instructions and quickly took these pictures:
home.attbi.com/~cmerig...
MORE SAMPLES:
Sample 1: home.attbi.com/~cmerig...
Sample 2: home.attbi.com/~cmerig...
Sample 3: home.attbi.com/~cmerig...
Sample 4: home.attbi.com/~cmerig...
Sample 5: home.attbi.com/~cmerig...

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  • 4
  By member: Hiswriter - Nov 26, 2001

Kodak EasyShare DX-3900 3.1 Megapixel Compact Camera

Strengths: Very easy to use. Like the ad just one button to push and the photos are downloaded onto your computer. Lots of options once the picture is downloaded, such as brightness/contrast, red-eye reduction.

Weakness: Maybe not as many pixels as you might like, but the ease of use outweighs that.

I can loan this camera out to other people at my business and they have no trouble using it. I work in a real estate department of a bank, and often the loan officers must take pics of homes they are to loan money on. The camera is so uncomplicated, that I don't worry about their ability to take good shots.
And I just plug in a couple of cords onto my computer, and push a button, and I can print them out a copy of their picture. It works really well for all of us here.

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