Stillbildskameras

Stillbildskameras, also known simply as still cameras, are devices designed to capture static images rather than moving pictures. The term originates from the German words "Stillbild" (still picture) and "Kamera" (camera). These instruments evolved from early photographic apparatuses of the 19th century that used glass plates or paper negatives. The first commercially successful still cameras were produced by the German company Ernst Leitz in 1903, leading to the Leica brand, which helped establish 35 mm film cameras as the standard for half-size photography.

Modern stillbildskameras can be grouped into several major categories. Film cameras, which use 35 mm or medium format film, still appeal to photographers who value the tactile qualities of analog photography, such as the perception of light and the development process. Digital single‑lens reflex (DSLR) cameras, introduced in the late 1990s, combine interchangeable lenses, optical viewfinders, and large, high‑resolution image sensors. Mirrorless cameras, emerging in the 2010s, dispense with the mirror mechanism, offering a more compact design while maintaining interchangeable lenses and high image quality. Compact point‑and‑shoot cameras and smartphone cameras provide convenience and immediate sharing, albeit with smaller sensors and limited optical zoom.

Stillbildskameras have significantly influenced visual culture by democratizing image creation. The ability to capture moments in a high‑quality, reproducible format has fostered documentary, artistic, and commercial photography. Technological advances such as autofocus, image stabilization, and high‑dynamic‑range processing have expanded creative possibilities. Today, the convergence of stillbildskameras with digital imaging software allows instant editing and distribution, shaping contemporary visual communication. Nonetheless, many photographers continue to value the deliberate workflow of traditional film systems, viewing them as an art form that requires careful planning and technique.