The eight-megapixel, 5.8x optical zoom P880 is the most serious camera in Kodak’s range, with looks and chunky build to match; it’s basically a baby SLR.

The layout of its many controls is clear, and its creative possibilities are aided by the inclusion of a socket for an optional flashgun. The advantage of this is more natural-looking lighting, even when flash is used. And that is especially useful here, as light sensitivity peaks at a lowly ISO600.

More positively, the Kodak EasyShare P880 lens’ 24mm wide-angle setting will appeal to group portrait or landscape photographers, while the ability to alter the focus or zoom manually ­ rather than pressing a button and waiting for it to change ­ will please those used to older film cameras.

Extras include a TV-quality video mode that allows full use of the zoom, a reasonably sized 2.5in display, plus the ability to save maximum-quality unprocessed RAW images alongside common JPEGs.

32Mb of internal memory is provided to get things started but you'll need to find a SD memory card from elsewhere to take a decent amount of snaps..

The P880 powers up in around a second and, as enthusiasts would expect, it allows you to manually tweak the camera’s settings ­ including the speed at which it takes an image (shutter speed) and the amount of light it lets reach the sensor (aperture).

The camera can save a personalised set-up so it can be recalled next time you switch on. There is also the familiar range of pre-programmed scene modes, though its Program mode  in which it automatically selects the best combination ­ is a reliable fallback, capable of picking up fine detail like dust on a jar lid.

Overall, it’s one of the nearest experiences you’ll get to owning an SLR without actually buying one.

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