The Evolution of Photography: From Camera Obscura to AI

Photography's roots began in the 4th century B.C. when Aristotle mentioned camera obscura in his writings. However, it wasn't until 1826 that Joseph Nicéphore Niépce created the first permanent photograph.

Photographic film was born from experiments with silver halides on paper. George Eastman commercialized paper film in 1885, before transitioning to celluloid film, which revolutionized photography with its flexibility and durability.

Kodachrome, the first successful color film, was introduced in 1935. It was distinguished for its rich colors and longevity, and became a favorite medium for both amateurs and professionals.

The first true digital camera was developed by Kodak engineer Steven Sasson in 1975. Although bulky and impractical, it pioneered the technology that would dominate the industry by the early 21st century.

While consumers often chase higher megapixels, sensor size is equally critical. Larger sensors capture more light and detail, offering superior image quality, especially in low-light conditions.

Mirrorless cameras, which forgo the traditional mirror and optical viewfinder, have gained popularity for being more compact while still delivering high-quality images. They represent a significant shift in camera design since the 2000s.

Artificial Intelligence is transforming photography by enabling features like facial recognition, scene detection, and advanced image processing, resulting in smarter cameras and more powerful editing software.