Apart from new digital solutions in photo and video technology, it seems that this year the analog and “back to the roots” approach caused the most reactions. After CES 2017, we’re left with many news and impressions. With all the innovations, it’s still something vintage that made the most of us thrilled. It’s launching something new, which is actually old. Yes, I’m talking about Kodak bringing back Ektachrome, and possibly even Kodachrome.
This made me think about the “old days” and how technological innovations in photography were observed back then. And then I saw this video. It’s over 50 years old Kodak commercial, showing their latest technology at the time – the Flashcube.
Flashcube was Kodak’s innovation from the late 1960’s. Kodak invented it to upgrade their Instamatic camera line by replacing a single flash bulb with the Flashcube. This invention had four flashbulbs mounted at 90°. It allowed the user to take four photos one after another before inserting a new flashcube, instead of just one before replacing the bulb. After each shot, the flashcube would rotate 90° so the photographer could use a fresh bulb in the cube.
Today, we have all sorts of lighting solutions we can buy or make. But some 50 years ago, I believe this was quite a discovery. And with the trend of re-introducing the old inventions, who knows – we may even get the Flashcube back in Kodak’s stock some day. I’d love to play with it, just for fun!
Do any of you remember this invention from the ‘60s? Did you use it? I’m curious to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
[Flashcubes: Kodak Instamatic Camera Commercial circa 1965 Eastman Kodak Company via Reddit]
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