Disposable, also known as single-use cameras, were pretty big back in the 80s and 90s, but the kids of today are probably more accustomed to snapping shots with their smartphone to post on social networks. On a similar note, did you know that a company called Photo-Pac produced a cardboard camera beginning in 1949 which shot 8 exposures and which was mailed-in for processing? That’s right, cameras were expensive, and would often have been left safely at home when lovely scenes presented themselves. Frustrated with missing photo opportunities, H. M. Stiles had invented a way to enclose 35mm film in an inexpensive enclosure without the expensive precision film transport mechanism. It cost $1.29. Though incredibly similar to the familiar single-use cameras today, Photo-Pac failed to make a permanent impression on the market. Continue reading for more.
