Today, however, technology has become accessible to everyone, and smartphones take photos worthy of being framed where disposables are satisfied with average quality, without the possibility of taking the same photo ten times or seeing the result. before development, which is also profitable. But where does this madness come from for an object that fell into oblivion twenty years ago?
Young people and the quest for truth…
Today, disposable cameras mainly appeal to young people aged 15 to 35; generations more or less born or educated in digital technology, social networks and the multitude of images. Young people who have grown tired of taking a million photos and rarely printing any, and who, in many areas, are looking for a return to more authenticity.
Unlike digital photos that are often retouched and filtered, film photography is appreciated for its imperfections, its unique grain and the unpredictability of the result.
…or just a trend?
But it would be unfair not to cite another reason for their popularity: social networks. Particularly on Instagram and TikTok, disposable devices have become fashion items, used during special events or festive occasions like weddings, festivals, or vacations. Users appreciate the spontaneous and retro side of these devices, far from the perfectionist standards of modern digital photography.
Finally, we cannot deny that nostalgia has always played an important role in new market trends: vintage is and will always be popular!
Advantages and disadvantages
Easy to use, disposable devices take us back in time, with a hint of authenticity and the pleasure of surprise at the result. They can also curb our tendency to take 50 photos a day that we never look at or take the time to print. On the other hand, they have a big disadvantage, and not the least: ecologically, it is a disaster, since it is an entire non-recyclable device, made mainly of plastic, which ends up in the trash after 30 photos.
So what to do? As with chocolate: treat yourself… while remaining measured. Say “Cheese”!
