Eastman Kodak

Eastman Kodak Company

Type	Public
Traded as	NYSE:KODK
Key people	James V. Continenza (Executive Chairman)
Industry	Photography, Imaging
Products	Cameras, Film, Printers, Software
Revenue	$1.242 billion (2020)
Employees	4,500 (2020)
Website	[www.kodak.com Official website]

The Eastman Kodak Company, commonly known as Kodak, is an American technology company that produces imaging-related products with its historic basis on photography. Founded by George Eastman in 1888, Kodak was a pioneer in the development of photographic film and cameras, making photography accessible to the general public.

History

Founding and Early Years

Kodak was founded by George Eastman in 1888. Eastman, an innovator in the field of photography, developed a dry-plate process that simplified the photographic process. The company introduced the first simple camera, the Kodak, in 1888, which came pre-loaded with enough film for 100 exposures. After the film was used, the entire camera was sent back to the company for processing.

20th Century Expansion

Throughout the 20th century, Kodak expanded its product line to include a wide range of cameras, film, and photographic equipment. The company became synonymous with photography, with its "Kodak moment" slogan becoming part of popular culture. Kodak was a leader in the development of color film, introducing Kodachrome in 1935, which became the standard for color photography for decades.

Digital Revolution

In the late 20th century, Kodak faced challenges with the advent of digital photography. Although Kodak invented the first digital camera in 1975, the company was slow to transition from film to digital, which led to a decline in its market dominance. By the early 2000s, Kodak had shifted its focus to digital imaging and printing.

Bankruptcy and Restructuring

In 2012, Kodak filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as it struggled to adapt to the digital age. The company emerged from bankruptcy in 2013, having restructured its business to focus on commercial imaging, printing, and packaging.

Products and Services

Kodak's current product offerings include digital printing solutions, commercial packaging, and software for imaging and printing. The company also licenses its brand for various consumer products, including digital cameras and printers.

Impact on Photography

Kodak's innovations in film and camera technology revolutionized photography, making it accessible to amateur photographers and professionals alike. The company's contributions to color film and its development of the first digital camera have had a lasting impact on the industry.

See Also

• George Eastman
• Kodachrome
• Digital photography
• Photography
• Film photography

References

• "Kodak: A History of Innovation." Kodak.com. Accessed October 2023.
• "The Rise and Fall of Kodak." Business Insider. Accessed October 2023.