Kodachrome, introduced by Eastman Kodak in 1935, stands as a monumental achievement in the history of photography. As one of the first successful colour reversal films, Kodachrome transformed both cinematography and still photography, earning widespread acclaim for its vibrant color rendition and archival longevity. This article explores the rich history of Kodachrome, its unique features, and its lasting impact on the world of photography. The history books are filled with colour photographs taken on Kodak’s Kodachrome throughout the 20th Century.

A Revolution in Colour Photography
Before Kodachrome, color photography primarily relied on additive color methods like Autochrome and Dufaycolor, which had significant limitations, including visible color elements and high light absorption. Kodachrome’s subtractive color process overcame these challenges, delivering unparalleled sharpness and color accuracy.
Developed by Leopold Godowsky Jr. and Leopold Mannes, Kodachrome introduced a multi-layered emulsion system, with each layer sensitive to a specific primary colour. The innovative process embedded color couplers into the developing chemicals rather than the film itself, resulting in thinner emulsion layers and more precise images.
Early Success and Challenges
Kodachrome’s initial success was bolstered by its inclusion of processing costs in the film’s price. However, this model faced legal challenges. In 1954, the U.S. Department of Justice deemed Kodak’s practice anticompetitive, forcing the company to offer Kodachrome without bundled processing fees and license its development patents to independent labs. Despite these hurdles, Kodachrome remained the gold standard for professional colour photography, particularly for print media.
Formats and Uses
Kodachrome was available in various formats to cater to both still and motion picture photographers. Formats included:
- 16mm, 8mm, and Super 8 movie film
- 35mm and 120 formats for still photography
- Large formats like 4×5 and 8×10
Renowned for its archival stability, Kodachrome was used to document historic events, including the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. It also gained fame through iconic works like Steve McCurry’s Afghan Girl for National Geographic.
Decline in Popularity
Kodachrome’s dominance began to wane with the advent of alternative color films like Fujichrome and Kodak’s own Ektachrome, which offered simpler and faster processing. The rise of digital photography further eroded its market share. Despite attempts to modernize, including the release of Kodachrome II and Kodachrome-X, sales steadily declined.
On June 22, 2009, Kodak announced the end of Kodachrome production. By December 2010, the final roll was processed at Dwayne’s Photo in Parsons, Kansas, marking the end of an era.
Steve McCurry and the Last Roll of Kodachrome
In a poignant farewell to Kodachrome, renowned photographer Steve McCurry documented the end of an era by shooting the very last roll of the legendary film. This momentous occasion symbolized both a personal and historical milestone, encapsulating Kodachrome’s unparalleled legacy.
McCurry, who had built a career capturing some of the world’s most iconic images with Kodachrome, approached this project with deep reverence. Armed with just 36 frames, he embarked on a six-week journey across New York City, India, and Rajasthan, seeking to encapsulate the spirit of Kodachrome in his final shots. His subjects ranged from the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the nomadic Rabari shepherds of Rajasthan, each frame meticulously composed to honor the film’s rich history.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Kodachrome’s influence extends far beyond its technical achievements. Its unique color palette—described as elegant and poetic—set it apart from competitors. Photographers praised its ability to capture vibrant yet natural colors, making it a favorite for landscapes, portraits, and documentary photography.
Although efforts to revive Kodachrome in 2017 generated excitement, logistical challenges made its return unlikely. Today, Kodachrome remains a symbol of photography’s golden age, celebrated in books, exhibitions, and songs like Paul Simon’s Kodachrome.

Technical Highlights
- Speed Ratings: ISO values ranged from 6 to 200 over its lifespan.
- Dynamic Range: Kodachrome 25 offered up to 12 f-stops of dynamic range.
- Processing: Required the complex K-14 process, involving multiple developers and precise chemical control.
- Archival Stability: Transparencies remain vibrant for over 185 years under proper storage conditions.
Kodachrome’s legacy is one of innovation, artistry, and cultural significance. While its production has ceased, its impact endures, inspiring photographers and preserving history in vivid color. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, Kodachrome represents the pinnacle of analog photography.
One Response
A and I Kodachrome lab in Hollywood California began thrived and died during the years I was shooting fashion in Southern California. Paul Simon’s “Kodachrome”. debuted with my 10 year reunion from high school opening line of which “When I think back on all the crap I learned in high school it’s a wonder I can think at all” became my anthem. Good times