Kodak 'Brownie' Vecta

Specification

Art Deco Credentials

Acceptable: Modest and restricted

• Produced after the main Art Deco period;
• Minimalist, geometric design;
• Bold, clean lines;
• Stylized simplicity;

Description

The Kodak 'Brownie' Vecta was designed by Kenneth Grange, a renowned British industrial designer. It was introduced in 1963 and production continued until 1966.

Its design is widely appreciated for being-

• Geometric
• Featuring clean lines, bold form, and stylized simplicity
• Made from molded plastic with a minimalist, sculptural quality

It features Art Deco principles like: emphasis on form; use of stylized, streamlined shapes; aesthetic integration of function and design.

However, the Vecta also reflects the Mid-century Modern ethos including: use of new materials (plastic); a move toward mass production; and a minimal, practical approach to design.

The simple design features only a knob for turning on the film, a red widow to view the frame numbers and a horizontal bar on the front, used as a shutter release.

It has a locking mechanism so the next shot cannot be taken until the camera is wound on, thus avoiding double exposure.

The body is sculptured making it easy to hold.

How to Use

This camera takes 127 film which is still available from select outlets - search for 'Rera Pan 100-127' which is a black & white film. For those photographers in the UK, try Nick & Trick photographic services. If you want to use a particular type of film which is not available commercially, then you can cut your own 127 film from any 120 film. See my page on 'How to cut 127 film from 120 film'.