Kodak No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie Film Camera: A Vintage Treasure
**What is the Kodak No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie Film Camera?**
The Kodak No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie Film Camera is a vintage camera produced by Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, New York. It was first introduced in 1915 and quickly became popular among photography enthusiasts of the time. As the name suggests, it is a folding camera, which means it can be folded into a compact size for easy transportation and storage.
This particular model, the No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie, was part of the Kodak Brownie camera series, which played a significant role in making photography accessible to the masses. It was designed to use roll film, allowing photographers to capture multiple images without the hassle of reloading individual plates.
**Features and Specifications**
The Kodak No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie Film Camera boasted several impressive features for its time. Here are some notable specifications:
- Film Format: 116 roll film
- Lens: Meniscus achromatic lens
- Shutter Speeds: T, B, 1/25, 1/50, and 1/100 second
- Focusing: Manual focusing with distance scale
- Autographic Feature: The camera had a small window on the back where photographers could use a special stylus to write directly on the film, allowing them to add captions or notes to their images.
**Price and Availability**
At the time of its release, the Kodak No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie Film Camera was priced at around $12. This may not sound like much today, but back in 1915, it was a significant investment for many people. The camera remained in production until the early 1930s, and due to its popularity, you can still find well-preserved models in decent working condition on the vintage camera market.
**Using the Kodak No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie**
Operating this vintage camera requires a little bit of practice and patience. Loading the film, adjusting the focus, and manually setting the shutter speed can be a bit challenging for someone used to the convenience of modern digital cameras. However, the unique charm and the nostalgic experience it offers is well worth the effort.
When taking photos with the Kodak No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie, it is essential to keep in mind the limitations of the equipment. The camera lacks sophisticated exposure control and has fixed focusing distances, which means you have to work within those constraints to achieve the best results.
**Preserving the Legacy**
The Kodak No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie Film Camera holds immense historical value and is considered a collector’s item by many photography enthusiasts. Owning and using this vintage camera offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the joy of capturing images with early 20th-century technology.
Whether you are a seasoned photographer or just curious about the roots of modern photography, the Kodak No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie is a fascinating piece of equipment that deserves appreciation and preservation.
