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What was the first handheld camera?

Published in History of Photography 2 mins read

The first successful roll-film hand camera was the Kodak camera, launched in the summer of 1888 by the Eastman Dry Plate and Film Company.

Kodak Camera: A Pioneer in Handheld Photography

The introduction of the Kodak camera in 1888 marked a turning point in photography, making it accessible to a wider audience. Before the Kodak, photography required bulky equipment and extensive technical knowledge. The Kodak, however, was designed for simplicity and portability.

Key Features of the First Kodak Camera

Here's a quick look at what made the original Kodak so revolutionary:

Feature Description
Form Factor Handheld and portable, significantly smaller than previous cameras.
Film Type Roll film, pre-loaded with enough film for 100 exposures.
Operation Simple to use, with a single button to take pictures.
Marketing Emphasized ease of use, with the slogan "You press the button, we do the rest."
Development After shooting, the entire camera was sent back to Eastman Kodak for film processing and reloading.

Why the Kodak Camera Mattered

  • Democratization of Photography: The Kodak made photography available to amateurs and casual users, not just professionals.
  • Innovation in Film Technology: The camera popularized the use of roll film, a significant advancement over glass plates.
  • A New Business Model: Eastman Kodak's model of processing and reloading film created a new revenue stream and established a long-lasting business. The camera was given as a gift to the George Eastman Museum.

In summary, the Kodak camera represented a paradigm shift, bringing photography into the hands of ordinary people and setting the stage for the future of the industry.