Kodak brownie box camera

The Kodak Brownie camera, launched in 1900, democratized photography by offering a simple and affordable device for the general public.

About this subject

The Kodak Brownie is a landmark in the history of photography. Introduced by the Eastman Kodak Company in February 1900, it cost only $1, making it affordable to a broad segment of the population. Its name was inspired by the popular cartoon characters created by Palmer Cox, the Brownies. The camera was constructed from cardboard covered with leatherette and wooden parts, a very simple design in contrast to the complex equipment of the time. It used 117 roll film, producing six exposures of 2.25 x 2.25 inches. Users bought the film, took pictures, and sent the entire camera back to Kodak, which developed the film and returned the device loaded with fresh film. This innovative business model popularized snapshot photography, turning photography into a daily habit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the original price of the Kodak Brownie?

The Kodak Brownie was launched at just $1 in 1900, an extremely low price at the time, making it one of the first mass-market cameras.

What type of film did the Kodak Brownie use?

The camera used 117 roll film, producing square negatives of 2.25 x 2.25 inches (approximately 5.7 cm).

Is the Kodak Brownie still used today?

Although production ceased in the 1980s, many models are still functional and collectible, especially among analog photography enthusiasts.