A Brief Timeline of Digital Cameras: From the ‘70s to Today
At first glance, some people wouldn’t think twice about their smartphone camera’s operation or that of other photographic equipment. But the more you witness a camera work, the more you grow to appreciate its technology.
While today’s smartphone equipment may feel vastly different from earlier technology, digital cameras of all kinds share the same foundation in capturing moments in time that you can preserve for generations.
In this article, you’ll explore a brief timeline of digital cameras, ranging from the ‘70s to today, and how their evolution revolutionized photography.
1975: The First Digital Camera
While the digital camera has humble beginnings dating back to the 1960s with Eugene F. Lally, the first portable digital camera was created by Steven Sasson in 1975.
An Eastman Kodak engineer, Sasson built the prototype from a movie camera lens, several Motorola components, 16 batteries, and CCD electronic sensors.
1988: The Introduction of Fuji
Considered the “first true digital camera,” the Fujix DS-1P signified a new chapter in photography.
The camera could record images in its 2MB SRAM memory card and hold up to 10 photos. As innovative as it was, the Fujix DS-1P unfortunately never made it to stores, remaining a prototype.
1990: The First Camera on Sale
The first digital camera available for purchase was the 1990 Dycam Model 1, also marketed as the Logitech Fotoman. This camera included a CCD image sensor and could store photos digitally and connect to any PC to transfer images, making it relatively similar to the models we use today.
1991: Kodak Makes Its Mark
Kodak made its mark by creating the first digital SLR camera in 1991. The camera featured a built-in 1.3MP Kodak CCD to capture photos. At the time, the equipment cost $20,000 and required photographers to wear external storage units on their shoulders.
1994: Apple Joins the Revolution
In 1994, Apple joined the digital camera revolution by introducing The Apple QuickTake 100 camera at a price point of $749. The equipment included a 50mm F2 lens, LCD display to view settings, and optical viewfinder.
1999: The First Camera Phone
There were additional advancements until 1999, when Kyocera changed the world by introducing the first camera phone. The Kyocera Visual VP-210 featured a 0.11-megapixel front camera that could transmit live video and store up to 20 images.
2007: The iPhone
In 2007, Apple once again stopped consumers in their tracks upon releasing the first iPhone. CMOS chips replaced CCD sensors, allowing these devices to use less power while capturing images.
The phone included more memory storage, giving consumers the opportunity to store and share photos instantly.
2010s: A New Era
While DSLRs are available in different models, today’s best camera phones include multiple cameras to capture crisp, vibrant images. With processing technology that pushes the boundaries on image sensors and lenses, devices like the Samsung Galaxy S21 now include robust 108-megapixel cameras that transform how we take pictures.
Undoubtedly, cameras continue to advance photography and provide new technology that helps people capture moments of joy and celebration. This brief timeline of digital cameras from the ‘70s to today breaks down the evolution of a beloved passion by reminding us of photography’s past and present.
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