The Disposable Comeback

I mean, is it really an event if you don’t have a disposable camera to capture it? This past year disposable cameras have come back among Gen Zs and younger generations as the retro style is trending. The nostalgic feel and look from a disposable camera is incomparable. Where did the disposable camera come from and why is it that these little disposable devices are trending again decades after they were invented?

The first disposable camera was invented by Fuji Film in 1986. These cameras took off during this time as they could be tossed in a bag and taken anywhere, something that was not a norm yet at the time. These cameras were inexpensive and easy to use. This new product attracted a new market and introduced many individuals into the world of photography.

Although with disposable cameras you don’t get the clear and high depth image, but with disposable cameras, photos can end up looking unique in their own way with different lighting and discoloration. There is also a feeling of excitement and entertainment in the fact that you can’t see the photo seconds after it's taken like you do with an iPhone. In my own opinion, that is one thing I love about the disposable camera, the fact you don’t see the image seconds after it’s taken. I think we spend so much time analyzing the photos we take after they’re taken. Therefore, I like the fact that you can take a picture at a gathering then move on with whatever you were doing without the distraction.

I think our generation gets the stereotype that we are all about digital, but I also think our generation is special because we value things with a story like disposable cameras, vinyls and vintage clothing. I don’t think the disposable cameras will ever go away and I’m not upset about that!