As of late, the trend of digital cameras has captured most of the trend-following world. Created in 1975 by Steve Sasson, digital cameras have been used by every generation, and continue to evolve. With the vintage look and nostalgic feel they give those who use them, they continue to grow in popularity, despite the increase in phone usage in younger generations. Greatly used in the mid 1900’s through the 2010’s, digital cameras lost their purpose due to the invention of the smartphone, which beat these cameras in convenience, versatility, and quality. Due to the appeal of novelty, their trend died down and the online world took hold and now, over 54% of the world population owns a smartphone. Although smartphones have many amazing qualities, nothing can top the memories, nostalgia, and connections digital cameras create.
Despite the several excellent traits of the smartphone, there are many negative implications they impose upon the world today. Not only do these devices steal precious minutes of everyone’s time, they are also known to be connected to the increase rates of suicide in younger populations. According to the National Library of Medicine, “Internet addiction contributes to depression, behavioral changes, social communication disorders, and anxiety” (NLM). The perception of phones in modern day life seems like a necessity, but digital cameras fill a void by creating memories, not just pictures. The manual settings the cameras allow combined with the extremely high quality of the photos makes the usage of smartphones much less crucial. Using digital cameras emphasises the memory behind the photo, not the photo itself. A Westmont Warrior and digital camera-user, Mia Donato states, “Digital cameras do a good job capturing the memory and moment. It’s something about the filter and ‘old’ vibe that gives an extra hit of nostalgia when you look back at those pictures.” Clearly, for Mia, she values time spent with her friends and family over the consumerism associated with phones. There is a valuable lesson that comes with the use of digital cameras: enjoy the moment.
Even in the busy, work filled schedule we all are guilty of focusing too hard on the future, and not as much in the present. Whether you are worried about your college applications, future job, or the economic state of the world, when you look back at your camera, the memories you have shared with the people you love will shine through. Live in the moment, buy a digi cam!