Ihagee

Ihagee was a German camera manufacturer, based in Dresden. It was founded in 1912 by Johan Steenbergen, a Dutchman, initially as a trading company. The name "Ihagee" is derived from "Industrie und Handels-Gesellschaft Steenbergen & Co" (Industry and Trade Company Steenbergen & Co).

Ihagee is best known for its Exakta cameras, which were among the first successful single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras in 35mm format. The Exakta series, introduced in the 1930s, featured innovative designs and a wide range of accessories, becoming popular with photographers and scientists alike.

After World War II, Dresden found itself in East Germany. Ihagee continued production under state control, eventually producing cameras under the name Exakta and Exa. Following German reunification in 1990, the Ihagee name was revived, but the company ultimately closed down. The Ihagee name and designs have been associated with various subsequent camera ventures, but the original Dresden-based Ihagee company no longer exists. The historical significance of Ihagee lies in its pioneering role in the development and popularization of the 35mm SLR camera format.