The advent of single-use cameras occurred in the latter half of the 20th century. These cameras, pre-loaded with film, offered a convenient and inexpensive way to capture images without the commitment of purchasing a traditional camera body. After exposure of the film, the entire unit is submitted for processing, and the camera itself is either recycled or discarded.
The significance of this innovation lies in its accessibility. It broadened the photographic landscape, allowing individuals who might not have invested in traditional equipment to document experiences. This ease of use, coupled with relatively low cost, made image capture readily available for travel, events, and everyday life, creating a surge in amateur photography and preserving moments that may have otherwise been missed.