The disposable camera was first introduced several decades ago. Its creation arose out of the need to have an inexpensive camera handy, one of the most attractive features of the device. Disposable cameras are used by a wide range of people including tourists on vacation and children who are just learning about the art of photography.
Photo-Pac
The first disposable camera was produced in 1949. The innovative device was created by A.D. Weir, who was looking for a camera he could keep with him without having to worry about losing or damaging it. Cameras at this time were very expensive, and it was not uncommon to leave them at home where they would be safe. Feeling frustrated that he was missing beautiful pictures, Weir created the first disposable camera: the Photo-Pac.
Features
In order to market a disposable camera that was practical, Weir had to develop a device that would be inexpensive to produce. The Photo-Pac was enclosed in a simple cardboard box. The device was unique because Weir created a method to feed 35-mm film without the need for any type of winding mechanism or spooling system. The weight and the cost of the Photo-Pac were kept low, and when it debuted, it cost just $1.29.
Function
The Photo-Pac was operated in the same way a point-and-shoot camera is operated today. There was enough 35mm film for eight photographs. Once each exposure was used, proper postage and a return address were added to the back of the Photo-Pac enclosure. The device was then mailed to a processing lab, and about a week later, a package returned with both the prints and negatives.
Significance
The Photo-Pac disposable camera was not a commercial hit when it debuted; it was considered more of a novelty than a practical device. But the idea paved the way for a new generation of disposable cameras that proved to be very popular. In 1986, Fujifilm introduced a modern disposable camera. Kodak released their version the following year. Both companies continue to produce variants of the disposable camera.
Evolution
The disposable camera remains an important part of the photography industry today. When this type of camera re-emerged in the late 1980s, it had only the most basic capabilities. The disposable cameras today are much more sophisticated and include features such as flash and panoramic lenses. Some have waterproof housings and have become great accessories for the beach. There are even digital disposable cameras.
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