If you’ve ever used a Kodak Retina folding camera or a Rolleiflex twin-reflex, you’ve been obsessed with photography for a long time.

Retinas were to Eastman Kodak what Cadillac was to General Motors. For 55 years, from 1934 to 1969, these German-made 35mm folding bellows cameras were at the top of the camera food chain. They had f2.8 or f3.5 50mm lenses—just like many cameras made today—and were the ultimate choice for vacationers seeking a camera they could take to Europe or the family cottage. Retinas could fold up to fit in a jacket pocket or purse. Models in good condition can take great photos today with 35mm film. Read the rest of this entry »

At this point in the pandemic, companies are selling fewer cameras than at any time since World War II. According to Business Insider, as far back as 2018, more than 85% of all photos were made with smartphones. Also, the lack of travel opportunities during the pandemic has discouraged vacationers from buying new cameras, since they don’t know when they will be able to use them.

Several famous camera manufacturers are redefining their businesses. Some such as Canon, Nikon and Sony are moving away from selling inexpensive consumer models, while others such as Olympus are focusing on medical optical products. Sony is also supplying sensors to other manufactures. When it comes specifically to travel cameras Read the rest of this entry »