AGFA ePhoto 780

The latest update to Agfa’s long-serving ePhoto 307 stalwart is the new 780. The new model uses a similar chunky black compact case with flip-open lens cover/on switch, big red shutter button, and topmounted status LCD. However, it differs from its predecessor in that a rearmounted LCD gives image feedback, a series of context-sensitive menu buttons offer image control, and a three-position zone focus sets the image distance.
2M SSFDC memory card instead of fixed internal memory. Powered by four rechargeable AA NiCad batteries (although with no charger), it is quite greedy on batteries, despite the fact that the LCD is switchable and complemented by an optical viewfinder. Bundled software includes Agfa’s own simple yet effective PhotoWise image transfer and correction software, plus Kai’s Photo Soap manipulation software. Both Mac and PC cables are supplied. No manual is included, but a start-up sheet points the user to the Acrobat manual on the driver’s CD-ROM. which is quite helpful and easy to use.
Operating the camera is easy: slide the lens cap open, press the button and the shot is taken. The flash and image quality are controlled by buttons next to the top-panel
status LCD. Recovery time is extremely short at around three seconds, and download is also very quick, taking 25 seconds. If you want, you can take nine sequenced shots by simply holding down the shutter. The LCD flashes up a good-quality rendition of the captured image, which you can immediately delete if not satisfied.
The image quality can be set to any of four settings, from one star to four. Ninety-six one-star images can be stored: that many in a 2M card obviously won’t win any clarity contests. However, at highest resolution the quality is good, if slightly less sharp than some others in the same resolution bracket. Colour rendition was bright and smooth and the indoor flash showed reasonable colour accuracy.
As a neat and versatile snapshot camera for a variety of images, this camera offers solid value.