Kodak No. 2C Folding Autographic Brownie Film Camera: A Snapshot of History
What is the Kodak No. 2C Folding Autographic Brownie Film Camera?
The Kodak No. 2C Folding Autographic Brownie is a vintage film camera produced by Eastman Kodak Company in the early 1900s. It was part of the popular Brownie series, which revolutionized photography by making it accessible to the masses. This particular model was introduced in 1915 and remained in production until 1926.
Unlike modern digital cameras, the Kodak No. 2C Folding Autographic Brownie uses traditional roll film, allowing users to capture images on black and white negatives. It features a folding bellows design, making it compact and portable. The camera also incorporates an autographic feature, enabling photographers to write notes or labels directly onto the film.
Specifications and Features
The Kodak No. 2C Folding Autographic Brownie boasts several impressive features for its time:
- Film Format: 130 roll film
- Shutter Speeds: B, T, I (for instantaneous)
- Aperture Range: f/6.3 to f/32
- Focusing Range: 5 feet to infinity
The camera also includes a reflecting finder, allowing users to compose shots with ease. Additionally, the autographic feature enables photographers to inscribe details about the captured image, such as dates or locations, on the film itself.
Price and Availability
During its production, the Kodak No. 2C Folding Autographic Brownie was sold at a price of around $10. Adjusted for inflation, this would be equivalent to approximately $260 in today’s currency. However, finding a working model today can be a challenge, as they are considered rare collector’s items.
Personal Experience
Using the Kodak No. 2C Folding Autographic Brownie was a truly nostalgic experience. As someone who primarily shoots with digital cameras, I was fascinated by the simplicity and mechanical nature of this vintage film camera. Setting the shutter speed, adjusting the aperture, and winding the film took me back to a time when photography required a more deliberate and considered approach.
The image quality produced by the camera may not match the sharpness and clarity of modern digital cameras, but it possesses a unique charm. The black and white negatives captured by the Kodak No. 2C Folding Autographic Brownie exude a vintage aesthetic that is difficult to replicate.
Overall, the Kodak No. 2C Folding Autographic Brownie Film Camera is a treasure from the past, enabling photographers to explore the roots of photography. Whether you are a collector, a photography enthusiast, or someone looking to step back in time, this camera offers a window into the early days of popular photography.
