3.2 Folding cameras
7 min read•august 21, 2024
Folding cameras revolutionized portable photography in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These compact devices featured collapsible and folding bed mechanisms, allowing photographers to carry cameras more easily while maintaining image quality.
Folding cameras played a crucial role in democratizing photography and influencing various styles. They incorporated intricate mechanical systems, including precision-engineered bellows, lens boards, and focusing mechanisms, contributing to their durability and longevity.
Origins of folding cameras
- Folding cameras revolutionized portable photography in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
- Represented a significant advancement in camera design, allowing for greater while maintaining image quality
- Played a crucial role in democratizing photography, making it accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts and professionals
Early folding camera designs
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- Originated in the 1890s with the introduction of flexible rollfilm
- Featured a collapsible bellows that protected the lens and allowed for compact storage
- Utilized a folding bed mechanism to support the lens and shutter assembly when extended
- Early models often incorporated wooden bodies and leather bellows
Influence on portable photography
- Enabled photographers to carry cameras more easily, expanding photographic opportunities
- Facilitated the growth of amateur photography and snapshot culture
- Allowed for more discreet and spontaneous image-making in public spaces
- Influenced the development of street photography and documentary styles
Mechanical components
- Folding cameras incorporated intricate mechanical systems to ensure proper functionality
- Precision engineering was crucial for maintaining optical alignment and focus accuracy
- These components contributed to the cameras' durability and longevity, with many still functional today
Bellows construction
- Made from light-tight, flexible material (typically leather or synthetic fabric)
- Allowed the lens to move forward and backward for focusing
- Accordion-like design provided protection from light leaks and dust
- Required regular maintenance to prevent cracks and light leaks
- Some high-end models featured double-extension bellows for close-up photography
Lens board mechanisms
- Supported the lens and shutter assembly
- Incorporated a locking system to secure the camera in its open position
- Often featured a spring-loaded mechanism for quick deployment
- Some advanced models allowed for lens board tilt and shift movements
Focusing systems
- Utilized a rack and pinion mechanism for precise focus adjustment
- Incorporated distance scales on the bed or top plate for zone focusing
- Advanced models featured coupled rangefinders for more accurate focusing
- Some cameras used a front-cell focusing system, where only the front element of the lens moved
Types of folding cameras
- Folding cameras were produced in various formats and designs to cater to different photographic needs
- The choice between medium format and 35mm affected image quality, portability, and intended use
- Rangefinder and viewfinder models offered different approaches to composition and focusing
Medium format vs 35mm
- Medium format folding cameras used larger film sizes (120, 620) for higher image quality
- Produced larger negatives, ideal for portraiture and landscape photography
- 35mm folding cameras gained popularity in the 1950s, offering greater portability
- 35mm models often featured more advanced metering and focusing systems
- Medium format provided better image quality, while 35mm offered more frames per roll
Rangefinder vs viewfinder models
- Rangefinder models incorporated a coupled focusing system for precise distance measurement
- Allowed for accurate focusing, especially in low light conditions
- Viewfinder models relied on zone focusing or scale focusing techniques
- Viewfinder cameras were generally simpler and less expensive to produce
- Rangefinder models were preferred by professionals, while viewfinder cameras appealed to amateurs
Notable manufacturers
- Several camera manufacturers made significant contributions to folding camera design and production
- Competition between manufacturers drove innovation and improvements in folding camera technology
- Different regions developed distinct design philosophies and manufacturing techniques
Kodak folding cameras
- Introduced the popular Kodak Folding Pocket camera series in 1898
- Produced a wide range of models catering to both amateur and professional photographers
- Pioneered the use of rollfilm in folding cameras, making them more accessible to the masses
- Notable models included the Kodak Retina series, which helped popularize 35mm photography
Zeiss Ikon contributions
- Renowned for high-quality optics and precision engineering
- Produced the iconic Ikonta and Super Ikonta series of folding cameras
- Introduced advanced features like coupled rangefinders and built-in light meters
- Zeiss lenses were often used by other manufacturers due to their exceptional quality
European vs American designs
- European designs often emphasized precision engineering and high-quality materials
- American designs focused on ease of use and mass-market appeal
- European manufacturers like Voigtländer and Agfa produced sophisticated folding rangefinders
- American companies like Polaroid incorporated folding designs into instant cameras
Impact on photography
- Folding cameras significantly influenced the development of photographic practices and styles
- Their portability and versatility opened up new possibilities for both amateur and professional photographers
- Contributed to the evolution of candid and documentary photography
Portability advantages
- Allowed photographers to carry cameras more easily in pockets or small bags
- Enabled spontaneous photography in various settings and environments
- Facilitated travel photography and photojournalism
- Encouraged the practice of everyday photography and personal documentation
Professional vs amateur use
- Professionals valued folding cameras for their image quality and discreet operation
- Amateurs appreciated the ease of use and affordability of many folding camera models
- High-end folding cameras were used in studio settings for portraiture and still life
- Simpler models popularized snapshot photography among the general public
Technological advancements
- Folding camera design evolved alongside advancements in photographic technology
- Improvements in optics, shutters, and film formats enhanced the capabilities of folding cameras
- These advancements allowed folding cameras to remain competitive with other camera types for several decades
Lens improvements
- Incorporation of coated lenses for reduced flare and improved contrast
- Development of high-quality, compact lens designs (Tessar, Heliar)
- Introduction of faster lenses with wider maximum apertures
- Some models featured interchangeable lenses for greater versatility
Shutter mechanisms
- Evolution from simple leaf shutters to more sophisticated designs
- Introduction of coupled shutter-cocking mechanisms for faster operation
- Development of flash synchronization for leaf shutters
- Some high-end models incorporated focal plane shutters for faster speeds
Film format adaptations
- Transition from glass plates to rollfilm formats (120, 620, 116)
- Introduction of 35mm film capabilities in folding camera designs
- Development of multi-format cameras that could use different film sizes
- Some models incorporated sheet film holders for professional applications
Decline of folding cameras
- Folding cameras gradually lost popularity in the mid-20th century due to changing technology and consumer preferences
- The shift towards more automated and compact camera designs led to a decrease in folding camera production
- Despite their decline, folding cameras left a lasting impact on photographic history and design
Rise of compact cameras
- Introduction of fixed-lens rangefinder cameras (Leica, Canon) offered similar portability with easier operation
- Development of compact point-and-shoot cameras appealed to casual photographers
- Advancements in film sensitivity reduced the need for larger negatives, favoring smaller camera designs
- Automated exposure and focusing systems in compact cameras simplified the photographic process
Shift to SLR dominance
- Single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras gained popularity for their versatility and through-the-lens viewing
- Interchangeable lens systems of SLRs offered greater flexibility than most folding cameras
- Professional photographers increasingly adopted SLRs for their advanced features and ergonomics
- The decline of medium format photography in favor of 35mm further reduced the demand for folding cameras
Folding cameras in art
- Despite their decline in mainstream use, folding cameras continued to be utilized by artists and photographers for their unique characteristics
- The limitations and aesthetics of folding cameras inspired creative approaches to image-making
Street photography applications
- Discreet nature of folding cameras made them ideal for candid street photography
- Zone focusing techniques allowed for quick shooting without the need for precise focusing
- Compact size enabled photographers to capture scenes without drawing attention
- Notable street photographers like Walker Evans used folding cameras for their work
Artistic expressions and limitations
- The slower, more deliberate process of using folding cameras influenced compositional choices
- Limited number of exposures per roll encouraged more thoughtful image-making
- Unique lens characteristics and formats contributed to a distinctive visual aesthetic
- Some artists embraced the imperfections and quirks of vintage folding cameras in their work
Collecting and preservation
- Folding cameras have become popular among collectors and photography enthusiasts
- Preservation efforts aim to maintain these cameras as functional artifacts of photographic history
- The vintage camera market has seen increased interest in folding cameras in recent years
Vintage folding camera market
- Collectible models command high prices, especially rare or high-quality examples
- Popular brands for collectors include Zeiss Ikon, Voigtländer, and high-end Kodak models
- Factors affecting value include condition, rarity, and historical significance
- Some collectors focus on specific types or eras of folding cameras
Restoration techniques
- Cleaning and lubricating mechanical components to restore functionality
- Repairing or replacing bellows to ensure light-tight operation
- Servicing shutters and focusing mechanisms for accurate performance
- Preserving original finishes and materials while addressing functional issues
- Sourcing or fabricating replacement parts for rare or discontinued models
Legacy and influence
- Folding cameras left a lasting impact on the history of photography and camera design
- Their influence can still be seen in modern camera aesthetics and portable imaging devices
Impact on modern camera design
- Compact folding mechanisms inspired the design of collapsible lenses for mirrorless cameras
- The emphasis on portability in folding cameras influenced the development of compact digital cameras
- Retro-styled digital cameras often draw design cues from classic folding camera aesthetics
- The concept of a protective folding mechanism has been adapted in some smartphone camera designs
Folding camera aesthetics today
- Vintage folding cameras remain popular as props in fashion and lifestyle photography
- Some modern camera manufacturers have released digital cameras with folding-inspired designs
- The classic look of folding cameras has influenced the styling of camera bags and accessories
- Folding camera designs continue to inspire artists and designers in various fields, from product design to graphic arts
Key Terms to Review (18)
Bellows: Bellows are an essential component in camera design, typically made of flexible material that expands and contracts to change the distance between the lens and the film or sensor. This mechanism allows for adjustments in focus and exposure, making them particularly important in folding and medium to large format cameras. The bellows not only support lens movements for perspective control but also enable photographers to achieve greater depth of field and manage light effectively.
Collodion process: The collodion process is a photographic technique invented in the 1850s that involves coating a glass plate with a thin layer of collodion, a sticky substance made from nitrocellulose dissolved in ether and alcohol, to create a negative image. This method allowed for sharp, detailed photographs to be produced quickly and became widely used during the 19th century, influencing the development of portable cameras and photographic practices.
Compact folding camera: A compact folding camera is a portable type of camera that features a collapsible design, allowing it to be easily stored and carried. This innovative design combines the benefits of a lightweight structure with the functionality of larger cameras, making it ideal for amateur and professional photographers alike. The compact folding camera typically has a bellows mechanism that extends when in use, enabling various focal lengths while maintaining a small footprint when folded.
Democratization of Photography: The democratization of photography refers to the process through which photography became accessible to the general public, moving from an elite activity reserved for professionals and wealthy individuals to a widespread practice enjoyed by everyday people. This shift was fueled by advancements in technology and the production of affordable and user-friendly cameras, making it possible for anyone to capture and share images.
Dry plate photography: Dry plate photography is a photographic process that utilizes a glass plate coated with a light-sensitive emulsion that is dry when exposed to light, allowing for easier handling and development compared to earlier methods. This advancement marked a significant shift from wet plate processes, leading to the rise of more portable cameras and making photography more accessible to the general public.
Focus Mechanism: The focus mechanism is a crucial component of cameras that allows photographers to adjust the lens to bring subjects into sharp clarity. In the context of folding cameras, this mechanism plays a significant role in achieving precise focus while maintaining the compact design that makes these cameras portable and convenient. The focus mechanism can vary in complexity, from simple sliding mechanisms to more intricate systems that accommodate different focal lengths.
George Eastman: George Eastman was an American entrepreneur and inventor who revolutionized photography by introducing the first successful roll film and the Kodak camera, making photography accessible to the masses. His innovations, particularly in the gelatin dry plate process and portable camera design, paved the way for amateur photography and established a new era in the field.
Gundlach's Korona: Gundlach's Korona is a type of folding camera that gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, notable for its compact design and ability to produce high-quality images. This camera represented advancements in portability and ease of use, appealing to both amateur and professional photographers during its time. It was often characterized by its unique bellows mechanism, which allowed it to fold down into a smaller size for transport while maintaining the functionality of larger cameras.
Kodak Folding Camera: The Kodak Folding Camera is a type of compact, portable camera introduced by Eastman Kodak in the late 19th century, known for its innovative folding design that made photography accessible to the general public. This camera revolutionized amateur photography with its lightweight, collapsible structure and use of roll film, allowing users to easily carry it and take pictures without the need for cumbersome glass plates.
Lens glass: Lens glass refers to the specially formulated glass used in the production of camera lenses, designed to shape and focus light for optimal image quality. The composition and quality of lens glass play a critical role in minimizing optical distortions, enhancing clarity, and improving light transmission, which are essential for achieving sharp photographs. The advancements in lens glass technology have greatly influenced the evolution of photography, particularly with folding cameras, where compactness and quality are paramount.
Lightweight construction: Lightweight construction refers to the use of materials and design techniques that minimize the overall weight of a structure while maintaining its strength and functionality. In photography, particularly with folding cameras, this concept is crucial as it allows for portability and ease of use, enabling photographers to carry their equipment without much hassle. The lightweight nature of these cameras not only enhances mobility but also contributes to more innovative designs and mechanisms.
Modernism: Modernism is a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and an exploration of new techniques, ideas, and perspectives. It reflects a desire to capture the essence of modern life and often emphasizes abstraction, subjectivity, and experimentation, which connects to various developments in photography and visual arts.
Pictorialism: Pictorialism was an artistic movement in photography during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which aimed to elevate photography to the status of fine art. This movement emphasized the use of soft focus, artistic composition, and manipulation of the photographic process to create images that conveyed emotional and aesthetic qualities rather than mere documentation.
Portability: Portability refers to the ease with which a device can be transported or carried around. In the context of folding cameras, portability played a crucial role in making photography more accessible to a broader audience, allowing photographers to take their equipment to various locations without the burden of heavy gear. The compact design and lightweight materials used in folding cameras revolutionized how people approached photography, enabling spontaneous capturing of moments outside the studio.
Snapshot aesthetic: Snapshot aesthetic refers to a style of photography characterized by spontaneous, candid images that capture everyday moments with an informal, unpolished quality. This approach emphasizes naturalness and immediacy, often resulting from the use of simple cameras that allow photographers to quickly document their surroundings without extensive preparation or staging.
View camera: A view camera is a large-format camera that allows for significant control over the perspective and focus of an image, primarily used in landscape, architectural, and fine art photography. This type of camera is characterized by its bellows, which enable adjustments in tilt, shift, and swing, offering photographers a range of creative options to manipulate depth of field and perspective distortion.
William Henry Fox Talbot: William Henry Fox Talbot was a British scientist, inventor, and photography pioneer known for developing the calotype process, which significantly advanced photographic technology in the 19th century. His innovations laid the groundwork for modern photography by introducing a negative-positive process, allowing images to be reproduced multiple times and changing how photographs were made and shared.
Wooden body: A wooden body refers to the construction material used in the frames of early cameras, particularly folding cameras, which were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This material provided a sturdy yet lightweight structure, allowing for portability and ease of use while offering durability against the rigors of photography. The aesthetic appeal of wood also contributed to the craftsmanship and artistry associated with these cameras.