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Kodak EK160-EF - Colorburst 250

The Kodak EK160-EF was released in July of 1979, boasting the new feature of built-in electronic flash and motorized film eject. Sadly, not long after its introduction, Kodak lost a lawsuit brought by Polaroid and had to discontinue film production for this camera. It is just as well, to be honest, as the camera is bulky and awkward. While Kodak made some great innovations with the film, their instant camera design left some things to be desired. Though the EK160-EF was the first integral instant film camera in the Kodak line to use a built-in electronic flash.

If you happen across one of these cameras it is not eniterly impossible to track down old Kodak or Fuji film on the internet, or to adapt the camera to use modern Instax film... just be prepared for a bit of an unrewarding project.

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Kodak Colorburst 250

The Kodak Colorburst 250 - there is an interesting history here.

Many photographers know some of the story about Kodak's ill-fated venture into instant photography. Kodak launched their own line of instant cameras in 1976, only to be immediately sued by Polaroid. The case took until 1985 to conclude, awarding in Polaroid's favor, with a decision that killed Kodak's instant film line.

Perhaps you didn't know that this venture by Kodak was based upon the fact that Kodak had produced Polaroid's film for them, from 1963 until 1969, when Polaroid took up production themselves. This is where Kodak developed most of the research and experience they used, to not just imitate Polaroid, but to even improve upon their film. For example, one big difference between the Polaroid and Kodak integral films is that Polaroid cameras use a mirror in redirecting the light onto the front of the film. This mirror is also necessary to flip the image, so that the developed photo is not backwards. Instead, Kodak cameras exposed through the back of the film. This meant their cameras didn't need mirrors, making them smaller (kind of) and simpler. It also, supposedly, meant higher image quality since the projected image didn't have to travel through as many layers to hit the emulsion. It also meant that Kodak films could have a matte or glossy surface to them.

One other quick note - Fuji also launched their line of integral instant cameras in 1980, using the FI-10 film. When Kodak lost their law suit, Fuji agreed to a technology sharing agreement with Polaroid, allowing Fuji to keep making their film until the 1990s. If you can track down a pack of this film, it is possible to use in these older Kodak cameras; the FI-10 and the Kodak PR-10 films were very similar. Just something to keep in mind, if you have a Colorburst that you are curious to try.

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Blue Moon Camera and Machine llc

sales@bluemooncamera.com
(503) 978-0333
(503) 978-0370
8417 North Lombard Street
Portland, OR 97203