The Kodak Instamatic 174 Film camera was a popular consumer-grade camera that was introduced by Kodak in the 1960s. It was part of the Instamatic series, which revolutionized the photography industry by making it easier and more convenient for people to take photos. The Instamatic cameras used 126 film cartridges and were known for their simplicity and ease of use.
**Introduction to the Kodak Instamatic 174 Film camera**
Released in 1966, the Kodak Instamatic 174 was a compact and lightweight film camera that was designed to be affordable and user-friendly. It was marketed as an entry-level camera for amateur photographers who wanted a simple and convenient way to capture everyday moments.
**Key Features and Specifications**
The Kodak Instamatic 174 featured a fixed focus lens with a focal length of approximately 43mm. It had a fixed shutter speed of 1/40th of a second and a fixed aperture of f/11. This meant that the camera was best suited for shooting in daylight or well-lit conditions.
The camera used 126 film cartridges, which were easy to load and offered 12 exposures per roll. The film cartridges were widely available and could be replaced quickly, allowing users to continue shooting without much hassle.
One of the notable features of the Instamatic 174 was its built-in flash. Unlike some earlier Instamatic models, the 174 had a flash unit integrated into the camera body, eliminating the need for external flash attachments. This made it convenient for low-light photography or capturing indoor shots.
**Photography Experience with the Kodak Instamatic 174**
Using the Kodak Instamatic 174 was a straightforward process. After loading the film cartridge, all the user needed to do was aim, focus, and press the shutter button. The camera’s fixed settings made it easy to operate, even for beginners. The built-in flash was handy for capturing moments in dimly lit environments, such as birthday parties or indoor gatherings.
The resulting photos had a distinctive square format, which was a characteristic of the 126 film. While the image quality couldn’t match that of professional-grade cameras, the Instamatic 174 produced decent photos considering its simplicity and affordability.
**Availability and Pricing**
At the time of its release, the Kodak Instamatic 174 was priced at around $30, making it an affordable option for many consumers. Nowadays, the camera can be found in the used market, often ranging from $20 to $50, depending on its condition and whether it includes the original box and accessories.
**Conclusion**
The Kodak Instamatic 174 Film camera was a popular and accessible choice for casual photographers in the 1960s. Its simplicity, affordability, and built-in flash made it an attractive option for capturing everyday moments. While it may not excel in professional photography, it offered a convenient and enjoyable shooting experience for amateur photographers. If you’re looking for a vintage film camera to experiment with or to add to your collection, the Kodak Instamatic 174 is definitely worth considering.
