History of Camera in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: August 15, 2025

A camera is an instrument for capturing and storing images or videos, either digitally using electronic sensors or chemically with light-sensitive materials like photographic film. A critical technology in photography and videography, cameras have heavily influenced visual arts, media, entertainment, surveillance, and scientific research. Originating in the 19th century, camera technology has advanced considerably, resulting in a multitude of types and models.

1912: Vest Pocket Kodak Introduction

In 1912, the Vest Pocket Kodak, one of the smallest and best-selling cameras, was first sold. It was available in two generations until 1934.

1934: End of Vest Pocket Kodak Sales

In 1934, sales of the Vest Pocket Kodak ended after two generations. The Vest Pocket Kodak was one of the smallest and best-selling cameras.

1937: Minox Camera Production

In 1937, the Minox company began producing the expensive 8x11mm Minox camera, the only type of camera they manufactured until 1976. It became widely known and was often used for espionage.

1952: Introduction of Ricohflex III TLR

In 1952, the affordable Ricohflex III TLR was introduced by a Japanese manufacturer, advancing camera technology.

1954: Asahiflex II Release

In 1954, the Asahiflex II, released by Asahi (Pentax), became the world's first SLR camera with an instant return mirror, a feature not seen in SLR cameras before this date.

1960: Olympus AutoEye Introduction

In 1960, the Olympus AutoEye, the first 35mm SLR with automatic exposure, was introduced, showcasing new designs and features in camera technology.

1975: Kodak's First Digital Camera

In 1975, the first camera using digital electronics to capture and store images was developed by Kodak engineer Steven Sasson. It utilized a CCD and saved black and white images onto a cassette tape, which could then be viewed on a TV monitor.

1976: End of Exclusive Minox Production

In 1976, the Minox company ceased exclusively producing the 8x11mm Minox camera, which had been their only product since 1937. The company later began producing larger cameras as well.

1986: Nikon SVC Introduction

In 1986, the Japanese company Nikon introduced the Nikon SVC, an analog-recording electronic single-lens reflex camera.

2000: Development of full-frame digital SLR cameras

Around 2000, full-frame digital SLR cameras were developed in Japan by Pentax (MZ-D) and Contax (N Digital).

2000: Sharp J-SH04 J-Phone Introduction

In 2000, Sharp introduced the J-SH04 J-Phone, the world's first digital camera phone, in Japan.

2002: Development of full-frame digital SLR cameras by Canon

Around 2002, the EOS-1Ds by Canon was developed as a full-frame digital SLR camera in Japan.

2003: Digital Camera Sales Surpass Film Cameras

By 2003, digital camera sales surpassed film cameras in the United States, marking the culmination of the transition to digital photography in the late 20th century.