Steven Sasson

Steve Sasson, the electrical engineer who built the first digital camera, shares firsthand technical history from inside Kodak. He recounts building the prototype, early CCD limits, internal skepticism, secrecy and patent choices. The conversation traces Kodak’s R&D culture, half measures like Advantix, and how the digital and smartphone ecosystems ultimately overturned film.

Steven Sasson, the inventor of the world’s first digital camera at Kodak, shares his groundbreaking journey in digital photography. He dives into the skunkworks project that birthed the camera and reflects on Kodak's struggle with technological disruption. Sasson discusses the skepticism surrounding digital imaging back in the 70s and how internal conflicts hindered Kodak’s transition to digital. He also highlights how smartphones have democratized photography, making it an essential part of our daily lives and creativity.