Kodak Folding Camera

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The first Kodak Folding Camera was introduced in 1897, significantly lowering the barrier to entry for amateur photographers.
2. It utilized roll film instead of glass plates, making it easier for users to take multiple photographs without extensive setup or equipment changes.
3. The folding design allowed the camera to be compact, which was a major selling point, enabling people to carry it easily on outings and trips.
4. The introduction of this camera contributed to the popularization of snapshot photography, encouraging more individuals to engage in capturing everyday moments.
5. Kodak's marketing strategy emphasized the ease of use of the Folding Camera, famously promoting the slogan 'You press the button, we do the rest.'

Review Questions

• How did the introduction of the Kodak Folding Camera change the landscape of amateur photography?
  • The Kodak Folding Camera changed amateur photography by making it more accessible to everyday people. With its lightweight and portable design, it allowed individuals to easily carry a camera and take pictures on-the-go. The use of roll film eliminated the need for complicated setups associated with glass plates, simplifying the process significantly. This democratization of photography encouraged more people to engage with capturing their experiences.
• Discuss the significance of roll film in the context of the Kodak Folding Camera's functionality and user experience.
  • Roll film was significant for the Kodak Folding Camera as it transformed how photos were taken and processed. It enabled users to take multiple exposures without changing heavy glass plates, which was cumbersome and time-consuming. The convenience of roll film meant that photographers could capture spontaneous moments without needing extensive preparation. This innovation contributed to a shift in photography from professional studios to personal use, allowing more people to document their lives.
• Evaluate the impact of Kodak's marketing strategy for the Folding Camera on consumer behavior and the overall growth of photography as a hobby.
  • Kodak's marketing strategy had a profound impact on consumer behavior by framing photography as an enjoyable and accessible hobby. The slogan 'You press the button, we do the rest' positioned photography as simple and effortless, enticing those who may have felt intimidated by traditional photography methods. This approach not only boosted sales of the Folding Camera but also contributed to a broader cultural shift where photography became a common leisure activity. As more individuals engaged with photography, it laid the groundwork for its evolution into a widely cherished form of self-expression.

Related terms

Roll Film: A type of photographic film that is wound on a spool and can be used in cameras, allowing for multiple exposures without needing to change plates.

Viewfinder: An optical device on the camera that helps the photographer frame their shot by showing a preview of what the lens sees.

Box Camera: A simple, usually rectangular camera with a fixed focus lens and basic controls, often used by beginners in photography.