The Film is Embedded in the Camera
Unlike a traditional, reusable film camera, disposable cameras are not made to allow removal and reloading of the film. Instead, these single-use cameras are built around the film, with the film rolled from one side of the camera to the other without a protective casing, making it impossible to remove of the film without destroying the camera.
Pictures are Snapped
Although disposable cameras are different from traditional cameras, they function much like their reusable cousins. When the user is ready to take a picture, she simply aims the camera at the desired subject and presses the shutter-release button. This button activates a spring-loaded shutter in the side of the camera which flicks open for a fraction of a second; the exact length of exposure depends upon the shutter speed of the camera; the exact speed is regulated by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and is sometimes known as the ISO speed.
The Open Shutter Makes an Impression on the Film
The inside of a disposable camera is normally very dark, as the film contained therein is quite sensitive to light. When the shutter flicks open for a fraction of a second, the incoming light---along with the image reflected in that light---is captured on a portion of the photosensitive film, creating a photo image. The highly sensitive film is then advanced into the dark container on the right side of the camera and a new segment of film is ready for exposure.
The Entire Camera is Developed
When the entire roll of film has been used, or when the camera is no longer needed, the entire disposable camera is deposited for development. Professional developers remove the film from its disposable case and develop it in the same manner as other exposed film (either in a professional darkroom or in a commercial photo developing machine). The developed photos are then returned to the customer, and the disposable camera casing is discarded or recycled.
Tags: side camera, disposable camera, disposable cameras, flicks open, flicks open fraction