A vest pocket camera is a type of camera designed to be extremely small and portable, often collapsible, making it easy to carry discreetly, even in a vest pocket.
Understanding Vest Pocket Cameras
The term "vest pocket camera" typically refers to a class of early 20th-century cameras that prioritized portability above all else. These devices were specifically engineered to be compact enough to fit into small spaces, such as a suit vest pocket, allowing photographers to carry them everywhere for spontaneous picture-taking.
The Iconic Vest Pocket Kodak (VPK)
Perhaps the most famous example, and the origin of the term's popularity, is the Vest Pocket Kodak (VPK). As noted in historical records:
- The Vest Pocket Kodak (VPK), also known as the Soldier's Kodak, is a line of compact folding cameras.
- It was originally introduced by Eastman Kodak in April 1912.
- Production continued until 1934.
- It was later succeeded by the Kodak Bantam line.
The VPK's nickname, the "Soldier's Kodak," highlights its extreme portability, as it was popular among soldiers during World War I who wanted to document their experiences without carrying bulky equipment.
Key Characteristics
While models varied, vest pocket cameras generally shared these traits:
- Compact Folding Design: Many models used a bellows or folding mechanism to shrink significantly when not in use.
- Small Film Format: They typically used small film rolls (like 127 film for the VPK) to keep the camera body small.
- Simple Operation: Often designed for ease of use, focusing on portability over advanced features.
These cameras played a significant role in making photography more accessible to the general public by offering an unprecedented level of portability for their time.
