A Camera as Easy as the Pencil: George Eastman’s Goal Achieved
Eastman Dry Plate & Film Company (Rochester, New York, 1884–1889). Kodak camera (pre-production sample), 1887. Gift of Eastman Kodak Company.
Ernst Leitz (Wetzlar, Germany, 1869–1930). Leica I Model A, 1925. Museum acquisition.
Folmer Graflex Corporation (Rochester, New York, 1926–1973). Anniversary Speed Graphic with Graflex Flash Synchronizer, 1941. Gift of Graflex, Inc.
This new permanent exhibit provides a look at the evolution of photography, from George Eastman’s earliest dream of simplicity to today’s world, where images are not just easier to create but also instantly viewed, edited, and shared. The display features nineteen cameras from the museum's collections.
Making a photograph was once an expensive and complicated process, requiring heavy equipment and chemicals. The introduction of the Kodak camera in 1888 transformed photography from a specialized pursuit to an activity available to almost anyone. With the slogan “You press the button, we do the rest,” George Eastman’s company offered not only a simple camera and film but also developing and printing services, freeing users from technical burdens. With the introduction of the more-affordable Brownie camera in 1900, Eastman made it possible for taking pictures to be a casually convenient part of daily life.
Over the next century, continuous advancements in manufacturing, materials, and features steadily improved the ease of use, reliability, and image quality of cameras.
The expansion of the internet during the 1990s motivated manufacturers to invest in developing digital cameras. Regular advancements in digital processing, storage, and imaging software—along with the rise of camera-equipped smartphones—making photographic image creating and sharing faster and easier than ever before.
Today’s pocket-sized cameras and smartphones incorporate advanced features that improve image quality and anticipate the photographer’s needs.
Curated by Todd Gustavson, Technology Department