CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY Cornell University Library arV17781 The hand camera manual 3 1924 031 247 491 olin.anx The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924031247491 Marion's New Hand Camera "THE PERSi." THIS Camera takes 50 to 70 cut films 4J: by 3i of any make, no notching required, and also it can be charged with one film at a time or any number up to 70, and withdrawn with equal ease in the same , mimner. It is fitted with a good, rapid rectilinear Lens. Time and Instantaneous Shutter. " Rising " and "Cross " Front. Price complete, with one dozen films and baelcing cards ready for use, £9 Ss. dUk Marion's "Radial" Hand Camera. TfHIS Camera takes 12 plates, without either sheaths or backing, and. is specially suited for any climate, the interior being made of Metal. Made in five sizes now, i.e., 3i by 3J, 4J by 3i, 5 by 4, 6J by 4^, and 12 by 9 centimetres. Prices from £S tSSm Otf> to £13 OSm Od. Marion's Card Case Camera. YERT suitable for young people, made in two sizes, 4^ by 3i and 65 by 4|. Each Camera is fitted with a full sizei view finder and one plate holder. Price for 4J hy 3|r, 6s, 64 hy 4f , 15s. Marion's Instantaneous Plates and Films, for Snap Shot Work. Plates 4i by 3i, Is. 6d. Films- 4J by 3i, 2s. per doz. ■»♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦»♦♦ FULL LISTS AND DESCRIPTIONS FREE ON APPLICATION. MARION & CO., 22 & 23, SOHO SQUARE, LONDON, W. THE "TflW THE MOST PERFECT HA ND CAMERA FOR SNAP-SHOTS. The Excellence of the Lenses guarantees the production of sharp and fully-exposed nega- jV lives. In support of this claim we '-■'' adduce the following details : — The Lens is rectilinear, the best that can be obtained ; it is one of Messrs. Taylor, Taylor & Hobson's celebrated 16 D, and is guaranteed by them. The Changing Arrangement (Newman's^ Patent), is absolutely certain and reliable in action, and never fails. In connection with this we may add that the plates are carried in steel sheaths of dull and smooth surface, uniform in size and thickness. The chamber in which they are contained is faced with thin metal plates-^avoiding the formation of dust^and, consequently, "pin-holed" negatives. The mechanical portion is constructed on practical principles, and is specially adapted for tropical climates. Twelve Plates, or 24 cut films may be carried. There is an Automatic Counting Indicator to show the number of the plate in position. Only one movement. The changing of the exposed plate sets the shutter for the next, no plate can therefore be exposed twice. An Indicator in connection with the shutter shows whether or not the plate facing the lens has been exposed. The outside dimensions of the Camera are only 4^in. by 4fin. by 9in. Two Finders, each about one quarter the size of the plate, giving identical view, and shaded by folding hoods, which spring into position on releasing a catch. The Shutter is of entirely new construction, self-capping, and may be regulated to make exposures ranging from l-50th to 1 second. Time exposures of any duration may also be made. The value of the Lens (50s.), represents nearly 2-5th9 of the price of the com- pute Camera. For those who desire a less expensive instrument we supply the "Talmer" fitted with a rapid single combination Lens, giving magnificent defini- tion and depth of focus, "—PRICES.— The "Talmer," complete with fixed focus single combination Lens, and 12 sheaths for plates, exterior covered in best leather . . . » Tbe " Talmer," complete as above, but fitted with Taylor's R. E. Lens, fixed focus , The "Talmer," complete as above, but fitted with Taylor's B. R. Lens, adjustable focus . . , 24 Sheaths for films, extra Waterproof Case, Mail Cloth, 8s. Solid Leather Case, 15s. 5 per cent, discount for cash with order. EIGBT-FAGE DESPRIFTIVX; PAMPHLET GRATIS. Full partiailars of other Goods in Price List. TALBOT & EAMER, Blackburn, Lancashire. £4 12 7 8 10 THE "ECONOMIC" HAND CAMERA. This instrument, is supplied ivltliout Lens, so that pur- chasers may fit their own ; the Camera is similar to the Talmer, but has Thornton - Pickard Shutter, 2 sunk finders, and rack and pinion focussing. When ordering, state back Focus of Lens. PRICES: i plate. £5 5 by 4, iSe 6 i plate, £S 5 per Cent, for Cash with Order, All our hand cameras are coverad with best hard-grainsd durable leather, but can be bad of plain or ebonized mahogany at a lesser charge. DOU5I9E DARK SIsIDeS. Mahogany, Book Form, Best Qnality. Fitted to any Camera. i plate, 5s. ; i plate, 9s. 3d. ; I plate, 13s. nett. Arednction for three. All sizes made. Over 26,000 have been sold. Avoid Imitations. THE DERVAX. A PERFECT TOURIST CAMERA. Long Extension, ail Moyements, Iteverslng Back, and 3 extra quality Bark Slides. COMPLETE. i plate, JBS 5 O; ^ plate, .£7 10 O. 10 per Gent, for Cash with Order. TALBOT & EAMER, Blackburn, Lanes. ESTABLISHED 1830. Tioifif ^ *€o MANUFACTURERS OF CELEBRATED PHOTOGRAPHIC LENSES. Of the most improved construction. More variety than any other Lens manufacturer in the world. Quality unrivalled. Manufacturing Licensees for the celebrated Zeiss & Goerz Lenses. ROSS' HAND CAMERA LENSES. • F/5-6 and F/8. Bronzed mounts ; Iris or Water- house diaphragms. Can be supplied in pairs, when so required. Splendid covering and definition. CAMERAS, STUDIO AND FIELD. Of finest workmanship, and suitable for every climate. Better value cannot be obtained elsewhere, and prices are very moderate. SPECIAL HAND CAMERAS. The most perfect in the market. Made for highest class of work. No complicated parts. Simple ; reli- able. Inspection invited. SEVERAL NEW HAND CAMERAS Are being introduced this season. Before purchasing please send for Hand Camera List. COMPLETE PHOTOGRAPHIC OUTFITS Supplied in all sizes, for every purpose and for any climate. Every care given to foreign and colonial indents, however small. CATALOGUES POST FREE, Containing full particulars of all the above. K.OSS 61c CO., ///, New Bond Street, London, W. THE HAND CAMERA MANUAL A Beginner's Guide to Piiotography in its connept(on witfi the Hand Camera WALTER D. WELFORD Editor : Photographic Beview of Reviews, London and Provincial Pliotographio ASBOoiation.— PiiotograpMc Club, &c. Author of;** The Hand Camera and How to Use It." SECOND EDITION LONDON L. UPCOTT GILL, 170 STRAND W.C. 1896. THE FRENA IS THE tcoBoPAfjHl up-Jo-WR Hand Gan^era OF THE DAY. MEM A WA§M @F ©AMBB. It has a Beck Lens. It has an Adjustable Shutter, giving exposures from i to ^ second ; also time exposures. It has a Swing Back and Level. It has Finders. It weighs (loaded) : No. 1, 31bs. ; No. 2, 41bs. It is sent out with a Handbook, so complete that no further instructions are necessary. , Can be used by the entire beginner. It is equally useful for the Photographic Expert. R. & J. BECK, Limited, 68, Cornhill, London, B.C. West End Ag-ents — LONDON STEREOSCOPIC CO., W6 & 708, Regent Street. W. CONTENTS BAPTEB PAGE PREFACE . 1 r. PHOTOGEAPHY . . . . 3 The Chemical Action of Light 3 The Various Operations ... 5 II. DEVELOPMENT OP THE HAND OAMBEA . . 6 The Terms Detectiye and Hand Camera. . . . 6 Origin of the Hand Camera ... .7 III. PRINCIPLES or HAND CAMERAS . . 9 General Points ... .9 Instantaneous Photography .10 IT. THE PARTS OP A HAND CAMERA ... 12 The Lens . 12 The Shutter .14 Plate Keceptacles . 19 The Finder ... .19 Focussing and Scale of Distances . 20 V. TAEISTIES OP CONSTRUCTION . . 21 Fixed Focus Cameras 21 Films or Plates . . .23 The Plain Box Pattern . 26 The Bag Changer . . 27 The Automatic Changer . . . . 29 Reflectors ... 31 TI. THE HAND CAMERAS OP TO-DAT 33 VII. THE PURCHASE OP A HAND CAMERA ... 59 Size of Plates . . . . 61 Study of the Camera . 62 IT CONTENTS. PAGE 63 64 CHAPTER VIII. USING THE CAMERA . Holdingf the Camera Street "Work .... 68 Moving Objects . '1 Time Expoanres . • '2 Duration of Exposures . • .76 IX. THE DARK ROOM AND ACCESSORY APPARATUS . . 80 The Dark Eoom • • 80 Accessories Beqnired . . . • ■ .85 Other Couveniences ... ... 87 Chemicals . ..... 89 X. PLATES AND DEVELOPMENT . . 90 Plates . . . . . . . 90 Development .... . 91 Fixing and Washing ... . .... 94 Drying and Varnishing ... . . 95 faults, Failures, and Bemedies 95 XI. PRINTING AND MOUNTING .... 98 Printing Processes . . . . . 98 Printing 99 Toning, Fixing, and Washing Prints .... 100 Mounting and Finishing Prints . . . 101 XII. ENLARGEMENTS AND LANTERN SLIDES ... . 103 XIII. VARIOUS NOTES, HINTS, &C. . ... . . 105 The Primus" Ca meras. No. 1 "PRIMUS." i-plate,£4 48.; 5 x4,£55s.;4-plate,£6 lOe. DATA for No. 1 or No. 2 (i-plate). Weight about 21b. Measurements. .7iin. x5^in. x4in. Customer's own Lens fitted if required. QPCPinPATinil aod-Y IS made in seasoned Hahqgany, covered in Black Leather, OrLWir lUn l lUlli and fitted with Thomton-Piokardfiistantaneous Shutter, Eapid Rec- tilinear Lens (Iris Diaphragm], Pooussing, Brilliant Finders, and 3 tiny Double Dark Slides. No. 2 " PRIMUS." J-plate,£6 6b.; 5x4, £7 7s.; J-plate,£9 9s. CDCPICIP ATinil __The body is made in seasoned Mahogany, with combed and rounded OrCbiriuH I lUHi comers, and covered in best blaok Leather; it is fitted with a Thom- ton-Pickard Time and Instantaneous Shatter and a Rapid Euryscope Lens working at F/6., Iris Diaphragm. It has swing back all ways, and rising front. Focussing, BriUiant Finders, and 3 tiny Double Dark Slides. STEREOSCOPIC "PRIMUS." No. 1, £8 8s.;No.2,£12 12s. Descrip- tive Pamphlet Post Free. Size Plate, 6|in. x3j:in. CprPICiPaTifliiL ^eciflcations as above, describe this Camera respec- orcWiriUnilUlli tively, with the following differences : The Thomton-Pickard Time and Instantaneous Stereo Shutter is used inboth. The Lenses are carefully paired, a Bectiljnearin the No. 1 Camera and Euryscope in the No. 2, W. BUTCHER & SON, Blackheath, London, S.E. To be had of all Dealers. Aak for full Catalogue of " Primus " Specialities. ARCHER'S NEW "TOURIST" HAND CAMERA, Recommended by the Editors of "The Photogrram," "Photography," "The Practical Photographer," "The Junior Photographer," &c. THIS neat Camera contains 6 Double Dark Slides, all fitting behind the Focussing Screen. It has a Leather Bellows worked by Back and Pinion from the outside, with engraved Scale of Distances ; Bising Front ; Door at Back for Focussing when used on a Stand ; 2 Finders ; Thornton-Pickard Shutter ; and First-class Bapid BectUinear Lens, fitted with Improved Iris Diaphragms. Beautifully made throughout. Price £5 5s. nett, complete. LIST OF TWENTY NEW CAMERAS. ALL PRICES, FREE. Manufacturers and Dealers, 43 to 49, LORD ST., LIVERPOOL. ESTABLISHED 18i8. Modern feanterns AWD How to Worl{ THEM. ILLUSTRATED. By R. CHILD BAYLEY. Price l/-,by post 1/2. L. UPCOTT GILL, iro, strand, London, W.C. XYLAR'S "YIT'BIT" CAMERAS ^^^ APR THE NEATEST, THE CHEAPEST, & THE BEST CAMERAS At a reasonable price in the market. EVER'? CAMERA is separately and sharply focussed, and will do its work well. cloth covered. Leather covered. 1 Plate 12/6 15/- i Plate 25/- 30/- Stereoscopic . . 25/- 30/- Tylafs A.I. "TIT-BITS" for Time and INSTANTANEOUS Work. Covered in real Leather, from 25/- each. FULLY ILLUSTRATED PRICE LIST, 300 Woodcutsi free by post, 4d. Tit-Bit Guide to Photography, 56 paffes, post free, Xd. W. TYLAR, 41, HIGH ST., ASTON, BIRMINGHAM. ESTABLISHED UPWARDS OF 35 YEARS. BRILLIANT VIEW FINDER (Hand-Camera Pattern). HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL. JAPANNED TIN, Price IS. 6d. each. SOLID METAL, IS. 9d. Without doubt the most efficient View Finder for Hand Cameras. No necessity for shade from siin. Picture seen in the most brilliant sunlight. Picture seen in dull interiors.- Everything in absolute focus. - Easily fixed into any Camera. Hand-Camera Lenses Post Free. SPECIAL.— Unmounted Lens, Sin. to 61n., 6d. Unmounted Lens, Achromatic Meni scus , Is. 8d. Brass-monnted Cover, Sin. by lin., 3s. 6d. SAFIS RECTILIHEAR.— Oxidised mount, with Rotating Diaphragms, covers sharp to edge of plate at /— 11. Focus 5in., 5 by 4, iSl 6s. Od. Achromatic Doublet, mounted in Tube with Screw adjustment to Flange. Focus, Sin., i-plate, 7s. SPECIALITY.— English-made Hand-Camera Doublet. Focus, Sin., covers 5 by 4, 128. Quotation for All Kinds of Materials. T. ASTON & SON, 95, Spencer St., BIRMINGHAM. 9lof a Tlifeieifif tShoy* SCIENTIFIC, PRACTICAL, PERFECT. EACH INSTRUMENT GUARANTEED. Easy to buy Easy to use Easy to sell 15/-., Complete with strip of m for 25 exposures. Takes 25 pictures in one loading l\ln. in diameter. Size ot camera 2in. by l\in. Can be carried in tlie pocicet. Child can operate it. Send tor Sample Photo- graph and Illustrated Booklet. ALFRED C. KEMPER, Manufacturer. ADAMS & HAYDEN, Managers, 36, OXFORD STREET, LONDON, W. Chicago— I3S & 134, Lake Street. Berlin— 10, Taubenstrasse. PREFACE TO 2°^ EDITION. Hand-Camera work has now become not only so fascinating a pursuit, but so useful a hobby, as to need special attention and study, apart from other branches of photography. In this direction the difficulty hitherto has lain in the fact that works devoted to photography only partially applied to the Hand- Camera. Even then too, the application could only be made by one already fully conversant with, at all events, the "general outline of the art or science. Is is the purpose of this manual to supply the missing link, to provide an elementary handbook to photography in its direct connection with the use of the hand-camera. Within the last few years there has sprung up a distinct branch of workers, viz: — those who have commenced photographic work with a hand-camera. This resulted from the introduction of cameras so simple in action, that by following a few easy instructions — and these of a mere mechanical nature — it became possible for one knowing nothing of photographic technique or routine, to obtain views, portraits, etc., with a minimum of labour. Sarcastically termed "Button Pressers" though they may be, yet the fact can hardly be gainsaid that a great addition to the ranks of workers has followed. Probably to the camera using a continuous roU of sensitive film should the credit be placed, for it undoubtedly attracted the non-photo- graphers. A large number of exposures were provided for, the 1 2 Preface. changing operations were easily learnt, and perhaps most attractive of all, the after operations were done at a reason- able price by the makers of the camera. No doubt hundreds of non-photographers were attracted by the "you press the button, we do the rest" principle. But, if the workers be in earnest, sooner or later there comes the time when they want to do aU their own work. It is to supply them with fuU information that this manual is written. As far as possible I shaU avoid technical terms, use the plainest language and steer clear of extraneous matter altogether, so that the work shall be as far as possible of an elementary character. The section devoted to the Hand-Cameras of to-day, has been thoroughly revised and brought up to date, and includes all the best knovrn patterns. Walter D. Welfokd. June 1895. THE HAND CAMEEA MANUAL. CHAPTEE I. PHOTOGRAPHY. The Chemical Action of Light. It will be well at the outset to get some brief idea of the scientific side of photography. It may be roughly divided under two main headings, optical and chemical. An image is projected by the lens upon a medium made sensitive to the rays of Ught, this image is afterwards repro- duced and made permanent by the use of various chemicals. As, however, the optical side of photography plays but a very small part as compared to the various other operations, being almost entirely concerned with the action of the lens alone, it need not be further dealt with. Photography may therefore be termed the art of depicting objects, by means of the chemical action of light upon certain substances controlled by the aid of chemistry. The substances employed are principally the various compounds of one metal vis : — silver. The powerfid action of light upon matter is well known, as for instance its fading of colour. With this action directed and guided upon a specially prepared surface, controlled by human intelligence and a knowledge of chemical reactions; we have the sum total of photography. In nearly all opera- tions connected with the art, light forms an important factor. 3 4 The Hand Camera Manual. It is important to remember the fact as a broad principle. When one hears of a man buying a hand-camera, getting it loaded with sensitive plates or films, and then before use cooUy opening it out to show a friend "how the thing works," we may be certain that that man was either ignorant of the prin- ciple, or did not attach sufficient importance to it. To put it as plainly as possible, if the medium is sensitive to light, ready to receive its impression in the camera through a lens, is it not merely common sense to recognise that until some further chemical action is undertaken, the medium remains sensitive still and the light will continue to affect it ? If, therefore, the medium be placed in a camera where by means of a lens the light is under certain control, it is perfectly evident that to let the light act upon it without that control is simply nonsense. I will try to illustrate the point by a matter-of-fact example, though it is a little difficult. Let us suppose that we have no- ticed the action of Ught upon b, piece of say blue material, where the sun shines upon it the colour fades. We would Kke to trace a pattern or design upon the material, and so, taking a piece unacted upon by the light, we place some opaque paper cut in the desired shape upon it, and then expose to the hght. The action will be simply, that where the material is protected from the light, it wiU retain its fuU strength of colour, whilst the remainder wiU have faded. This is a parallel to the action upon the sensitive medium. Our idea is afterwards to pass the material through some chemical solution, in order to so fix or hold the colours that no amount of light can afterwards make any change. But, if before this is done someone in, our absence kindly removes the opaque design, thus exposing the whole of the material to the Ught, it foUows, of course, that the whole of the material wiU fade or change colour equaUy and there wiU be no design apparent. This is what happens if the sensitive medium be exposed to uncontrolled light, before the Photography. 5 necessary chemical procedure has been gone through. This is a very rough illustration and not completely exact, but it ■will perhaps serve. The Various Operations. There are two chief divisions of work in the actual produc- tion of a photograph, and these are a. the negative and 6. the print or positive. The negative is the actual result ■arrived at upon the sensitive medium by means of controlled exposure to light, the positive is an after process for the obtaining of prints. The negative occupies the same position as the type of a printer, and the positive is the copy produced therefrom. The Plate as it is generally termed consists of a support of glass or film coated with an emulsion containing gelatine, silver and other ingredients. This is placed in the camera in what is known as a dark room. I will explain this latter further on. The Exposure is made by uncovering the lens for the correct length of time. Development is the bringing out of the image made upon the plate by hght, by the aid of chemicals. Fixing is the removal by dissolution of the sensitive salt unacted upon by the light! The plate is then washed and ■dried and becomes a negative. Printing. This term is applied to the various methods of obtaining copies upon paper, glass, and other materials, from the negative. Developing or Toning. A chemical action upon the print to alter the colour of the deposit made by the hght, or to produce or strengthen the image so obtained. Fixing the Print is for the same object as fixing tlje negative. These are the main operations, and other things are but' branches. Thus, lantern sKdes for instance are merely prints upon glass, and enlargements are merely enlarged prints on paper or glass. CHAPTER n. .y DEYELOPMENT OF THE HAND CAMEEA, . The Terms Detective and Hand Camera. Thekb is one point that should be explained at once. I refer to the use of the term "Detective" applied to cameras. It is necessary to do so as the pubhc imagine them to be some- thing very different to an ordinary camera. As a matter of fact the term was intended to apply only to cameras so con- cealed that their presence would not be detected. Moreover, the majority were simply hand-cameras. I should define the latter as a camera arranged and constructed with special refer- ence to taking photographs {i.e. making exposures) in the hands or at least without any other support than the body. This definition Uke many others does not cover the whole ground, but it is near enough as definitions go. Any camera that is small enough could no doubt be used in the hands,, but unless it is designed specially for use in this way, I should not consider it a hand-camera. The term " Detective " was no doubt chosen simply to con- vey the idea of concealment, but it was nevertheless a dis- tinctly unfortunate designation. It implies a use of the instru- 6 Development of the Hand Camera. ment for purposes to which some of the pubKc emphatically object, viz: — the securing of scenes or incidents, pleasant or otherwise (in their minds generally very much otherwise) which could not be obtained by other means. The very name from long association is somewhat distasteful. But the worst point of aU is th^ a hand-camera by real workers at all events, is very Uttle utilized for purposes of that sort. True, we may all of us occasionally indulge in surreptitious shooting, but it is not necessary to emphasize the fact by proclaiming ourselves "Detectives." It is only in the non-photographic world that such a title obtains, but as I am addressing non-photographers it is but right to point out that a Detective Camera is a Hand-Camera badly christened. Tell a man that it is a Detective Camera and he averts his face, turns his head, or bolts down the nearest street. Call it a hand-camera and he becomes instantly interested in photography and remarks " how wonderfully it has improved of late years." Origin of the Hand Camera. Primarily, without doubt, the origination and creation was merely a study of convenience, mere personal convenience. Because after all, exactly the same principles are involved as in any camera. But for all practical purposes the hand camera was not possible until the introduction of the gelatine-bromide dry plate. The increased speed of the sensitive medium, that is, the reduction of the necessary exposure to a point at which the one fiftieth of a second, say, produced a suflBciently im- pressed image, has had more to do with the growth of the hand camera than anything else. A glance at the following table founded upon an exposure of the present day will show why it is a legitimate outcome of the increased speed of the sensitive medium. 8 The Hand Camera Manual. For any given subject, using the same apparatus with the same intensity of light the comparison of necessary exposures is thus expressed. Gel.-Brom. Dry Plate (present day) ^ sec. Collodion Wet Plate Process 2 „ Collodion Dry Plate Process ^ , Callotype. Paper. 12 „ Daguerreotype. Metal Plate. 2 min. Thus the present dry plate is at least 20 times more sensi- tive than the Collodion Wet Plate, and so on. It must be obvious that even with wet plates, rapid enough exposures were but rarely possible, and with the still earlier processes were qiiite out of the question. The first idea of a hand camera would be that of a box, in which was placed an ordinary camera. Gradually conveniences were added, the box itself became the camera, space was economised, and various fittings appeared. Por some inexpli- cable reason, however, hand-cameras went along very slowly, and it was only about 1889 that the great move was made in this direction. Since that time, however, no branch of photography has come so much to the front. For the three or four plain patterns made in 1886 to 1888 we have now, I should judge, at least a hundred by different makers or of different designs and there must be many thousands of hand camera workers in this country alone. CHAPTER m. PKINCIPLES OF HAND CAMERAS. General Points. It is necessary to make one point quite clear, which is, that in the essential points a hand camera is precisely the same as any other form of camera. There must be a case or body, in the front of which is the lens and at the back the receptacle for the plate. So that, broadly speaking, there is no difference, although I know the public imagine all sorts of ingenious devices and even chemical actions, as particular to the hand camera. If this point be clearly understood, it will be of great assistance to the beginner in many ways. An ordinary camera with a shutter for rapid exposure, practically accomplishes the same object. It is in detail not in principle that the difference arises. Hand cameras are made with spe- cial objects in view, viz: — their use in the hand instead of upon a stand or support, and with conveniences for rapid exposures and changing of plates. They are designed for one special branch of work, whereas the ordinary form has a more "all- round " nature. But like the majority of " all-round " tools or apparatus, the ordinary form does not give the same degree of perfection in one particular direction of work, and towards this the hand camera is designed. 9 10 The Hand Camera Manual. Instantaneous Photography. This is a term much misunderstood by the non-photographer. The general impression appears to be that it is by the use of special mechanical devices and perhaps peculiar chemicals that instantaneous photographs are secured. It is in reality no different to ordinary photographic procedure, because th& dominant factor is light, and all that can be done is to so improve the apparatus as to obtain the maximmn of light with the minimum of exposure. The term instantaneous has, perhaps, done much to lead us astray. If reference be made to a dictionary it will be found that the meaning of this word is "an indivisible point of duration," that is, a period of time that cannot be divided or measured. But the piece of mechanical ingenuity called an instantaneous shutter, is made to work at various known speeds. In fact, the majority of them are so arranged that a particular speed can be obtained at wiQ, say from the 300th part of a second down to the fifth of a second. Taking the latter exposure, that is the duration of time afforded for the entrance of light, the former would be 60 times faster. And yet in the ordinary accepted meaning of the word, both would be instantaneous exposures. The term must therefore be dealt with loosely, as relating to exposures too fast to be made by the hand and needing a special appliance for their ac- complishment. This point is dwelt upon for two reasons, 1st, that it is so misunderstood, and, 2nd, because a correct understanding of it win, to a large extent, help the results of the beginner. Let me Ulustrate the point. I have seen a new worker in a dimly lighted place such as a church, or very late at night, firing away just the same as in bright sunshine. Upon Principles of Sand Cameras. 11 asking him or her how they expected to get any results at all with such a bad light, the answer always is, " Oh ! this is an instantaneous camera." It is therefore evident that they imagined some special arrangement in the camera, which enabled them, to a considerable extent, to be free of trouble about the strength of the light. As a matter of fact the sensitive plate requires a certain amount of light and no mechanical apphances whatever can reduce the exposure, nor can special chemical operations dO' more than recompense a little for the absence of sufficient Ught. That is why I think the use of such a term as- "instantaneous" has been a prolific source of misconception and error. A very much better term would be "Rapid Photography" or more correctly still "Eapid Exposure Photography." The points to consider may be roughly dealt with as. follows. 1 — Strength of the Ught 2— The lens and its worldng aperture 3 — Speed of the shutter 4 — Sensitiveness of the plate. There are stUl other minor considerations, such as the clean- liness of the lens, whether the shutter used admits the same amount of light as other forms, and the use of extra powerful reagents or combinations of chemicals. But I have put the above in a wide sense, leaving these other influencing con- siderations to later chapters. For a starting point the sensitiveness- of the plate may be taken as a standard. It must receive a definite amount of exposure, therefore the strength of the light as admitted through the lens must be of sufficient power, and the speed of the shutter must permit of that being realized. CHAPTER IV. THE PARTS OF A HAND CAMERA. The Lens. The object of the lens is to produce an image upon the sen- sitive film, by bringing the rays of hght proceeding from a point to a focus. The following are the most important fea- tures : — The stops or diaphragms, are pieces of metal in which are pierced holes of varying diameter. Their use is to increase the defining power of the lens, to produce, in fact, greater sharpness over the plate. They also have another effect— that •of increasing the required exposure. The aperture of the lens is really a case of which stop is in use, and in this country, at aU events, is expressed in com- bination with the focal length of the lens. Thus, if the focal length be 8 inches and the diameter of the stop ^ inch the result is the ^^, or using the letter "f" as the usually ac- cepted sign, it would be termed fl6. The Focal length of the lens, or more briefly the focus, is the distance between the combinations and the sensitive film. Depth of focus refers to the power possessed by the lens of representing sharply, objects both near and far away at the same time. The longer the focus, or the longer the aperture, 12 The Parts of a Hand Camera. IS the less depth. The stops are used to increase the depth, but, as I have already pointed out, with a consequent loss of rapidity. Flatness of field is the power of the lens in defining the edge of the plate as well as in the centre. As this is a practical beginners' manual it is not necessary to enter the very wide field of lens construction and principle, this can well be left for later study. But it is requisite to- deal with the two principal varieties used in hand cameras, and these are: — 1 — The single combination generally called "Landscape." 2 — The double combination known as doublet, symmetrical or rectOinear. The single combination consists of two or three pieces of glass cemented together, whilst the doublet, as its name implies, possesses two or three such combinations. The principal features of the single lens, are to be found in its depth of focus and general flatness of field. For plain landscape, marine, and such studies which possess no promi- nent straight lines, the single combination is probably the better lens. Having a good depth of focus, and giving a fair .definition all over the plate, a larger aperture can often be used, and this, of course, means increased speed in working. Its disadvantage lies in the distortion of straight fines, pain- fully apparent if there be houses or buildings in the scene- which are of any reasonable size, upon the plate. The doublet, on the contrary, distorts nothing, unless the camera be tilted. Possibly the superiority of the doublet, how- ever, lies in the fact, that it is a more all-round lens. It win give good landscapes, and render architecture correctly^ whereas the single lens is only suitable for the former. 14 The Hand Camera Manual. The Shutter This is merely a mechanical contrivance for uncovering and re-covering the lens more quickly than could possibly be done by hand. It is used either in front, or behind the lens, some- times between the combinations and in one form just in front of the plate. In the majority of hand cameras, special forms of shutters are employed, and to economize space the various parts are attached to part of the camera itself. There are, however, also a great number of patterns made in various sizes for ordinary cameras, the smaller ones being occasionally uti- lized for hand cameras. The features of a shutter are: — Speed i.e., duration of time in opening and closing to admit light through the lens to the sensitive film. Bqual Exposure to each part of the plate, or arranged to .give more to the foreground, less to the sky. Vibration or movement during the exposure. Po'wer of altering the speed to definite divisions. Action i.e., whether behind, in front, or between the com- binations of the plate, and whether released by a spring catch or by a pneumatic release. , One word of caution must be written with regard to the speed of shutters, which is that it is usually overstated by the manufacturers. The question of whether the whole plate receives the same amount of illumination, or the shutter is arranged to give more exposure to the foreground than to the sky, is rather an important one. In, possibly, the majority of plates exposed it is a most desirable feature, but it must not be overdone or cases win arise when it produces positive evil. In landscapes, marine shots and such hke, if the sky receives as much expo- sure as the objects in the foreground, upon development The Parts of a Hand Camera. 15 owing to the greater intensity of the light and its action upon the plate, it will be found an extremely difficult task to obtain anything but a perfectly dense image, producing, of course, a glaring white sky. This can be dodged, as will be related hereafter, but it is troublesome. On the contrary, how- over, if the shutter dips into this feature too strongly, it will mar the rendering of taU trees, houses, etc., where practically there is no sky. When the shutter is upon the revolving principle nothing is easier than to shape the opening to give more exposure to the foreground. The following sketch will show how it is done. The circle represents the aperture of the lens, and a the segment of a circle is the shape of the opening that passes across. It will be ob- vious that the size of the opening at AA will admit more hght than at BB. If the shutter is behind the lens the sketch above is in correct position, as BB would be the sky portion of the exposure. If in front, however, it would need complete reversal. Movement of the shutter in these days of perfection is not very likely, but some patterns are more prone to it than others. Perhaps the worst form in this respect are those on the "go .and return" principle, which consist of a piece of metal or other material uncovering the lens by rising up and then re-covering by returning to the original position, the jar at the top being the weak point. Many patterns appear to shake, but in reaUty it is at the end of the exposure and after the lens is covered, and therefore does not matter at all. Fig. 1. 16 Jhe Hand Camera Manual. Upon many forms will be found engraved various speeds at which the shutter can be set to work. These must be taken as comparative only, I mean as compared one with the other. Say one is marked for exposures, \, \, i, tVi "Ai tV of a second, these times are not as a rule reliable as giving the real duration of the exposure. But practically they serve the same purpose, as the \^^ will give just the same amount less exposure com- pared to the \, to-day as it did yesterday. And as we know by experience what has already taken place, so we can repeat the operation. The light, of course, must remain a constant factor, or it will alter the results in every direction. Fig. 2. Turning now to the position of the shutter, much diversity of opinion exists, to say nothing of the fact that circiunstances also largely govern the matter. Theoretically however, there is a pretty universal concensus of opinion, that the best place is directly in front of, and close to, the plate. But the shutter then becomes cumbersome (see Fig. 2) owing to its size, and both it and the camera have to be arranged specially for the purpose, so that it is not often used. Those working between the lenses require special fittings also, but as hand cameras are usually issued complete, the shutter forming part of the construction, this is not of much account. Generally speaking, this is the best workable, position. In the majority of patterns, however, The Parts of a Hand Camera. 17 the shutter is usually on the front or at the back. After all, to the' beginner the matter is not of very much importance, though as he progresses— and in the usual hobby style changes his apparatus constantly — these notes may prove useful. In shutters upon automatic changers, or magazine cameras, in -which the plates are stored facing the lens, some method of preventing the entrance of light to the next plate, whilst the shutter is being set or wound up, must be provided. This is accomplished in at least three ways. 1— A flap or cover in front of the lens, and generally form- ing part of the case or body. 2— A cover inside the camera, actuated by a lever or spring outside. 3— A shield or cover attached to the shutter which protects the aperture when being set, but falls back out of the way for the exposure. 18 The Hand Camera Manual. The first two are not so convenient as the last, because they mean an extra movement to be remembered, and the less- there is to do or think of the better. The shield or cover plan may be gleaned from Fig. 3, the different forms used being practically upon the same principle. A represents the moving part of the shutter, C being the aperture which passes over the lens at D, and B the shield or cover. When the cord E is pulled it brings up B untU it covers the aperture and then pulls the shutter itself across the lens. When the shutter is set, B falls back out of the way. The sketch is a rough one, and I have not shown any of the springs and catches, but it will serve to show the method employed. There is still a further method, which is dealt with by itself, for the reason that it accomplishes more than the covering of the lens during the winding of the shutter. In this the shutter is termed an "Everset" one, because no winding or setting is necessary. It is always ready to be discharged, without the necessity of recharging. Personally I confess to a great liking for this form of shutter. Beginners will soon find that hand camera work requires very close attention, the mere correct manipulation of the camera itself needing oftentimes more attention than can be given to the composition and selection of the subject. An "Everset" shutter removes one care, one chance of a mistake. In fact, it removes two, for whilst it answers the same purpose as a shield or cover when one is required, it does not need rewinding for each exposure. It is so easy to press the button or lever, to afterwards discover that the shutter was not fired through not having been set or wound up after the previous exposure. Shutters made ready by the pulling of a string which has to run back when they are discharged, require some amount of watchfulness that the string be not caught by the hand or some other obstacle, which would inevitably spoil that exposure. UTic Parts of a Hand Camera. 19 Plate Receptacles. In the older patterns the ordinary dark slides were used, and even up to the present time many workers prefer this method. But of late a number of ingenious contrivances have somewhat monopoHzed attention, in which plates are carried ready for use by the dozen. These wUl, however, be dealt with under the heading of Plate Changing Methods. The Finder. In most cases hand cameras are fitted with a tiny camera obscura, the scene being portrayed in miniature through a lens reflected by a mirror upon a small piece of ground glass, the right way up. The purpose of this is principally the cen- tring and positionizing of the object desired, the actual scene upon the sensitive fibn corresponding ,with that shown on the finder. Some workers, it is true, prefer — or assert their pre- ference — to trust to their sight for keeping the camera level and correctly pointed. But the beginner will lose nothing by paying close attention to the finder, as it gives practically a reduced image of the scene he seeks to secure on the plate. It, of course, has nothing to do with the correct focus of the lens, that is the judging of distance, but merely serves to show him what the lens will grasp. Usually it is so arranged in the camera that the ground glass comes level with the top or side, but in a few cases it either projects or is placed bodily upon the outside. It is asserted that the use of this necessi- tates such close attention owing to the smallness of the image visible, that the worker cannot really watch the scene or in- cident before the camera. Practically, however, I have never found it so. The view or incident is first seen and deemed worthy of being secured, the finder only being utihzed to ensui-e 20 Tlie Hand Camera Manual. correct position of the plate. I must strongly recommend the use of a finder whenever possible. One thing is evident, if one be provided it can be utilized or not as the worker chooses, but if it does not exist occasions wiU arise when the omission will be felt. Focussing and Scale of Distances. It is necessary to explain at this point that the cameras made are either arranged so as to allow of alteration of focus for varying distances, or ai'e termed "fixed focus." In the latter variety, a definite distance must be allowed for, at and beyond which everything is in focus. This is really a matter connected with the lens in the first instance, but I deal with it as a point concerned v^rith the camera, because with one sO' arranged there is no power of focussing at all, and to obtain this power would mean procuring another pattern of camera, altogether. Upon those which are constructed to focus for certain dis- tances there is usually provided an engraved scale in feet or yards, a movable pointer or mark serving to indicate when the lens is at the correct distance from the plate. The use of this is entirely a matter of judgment, and the power of quickly estimating the distance between the worker and tk object to be photographed, is a mere matter of practice. CHAPTER V. , VARIETIES OF CONSTRUCTION. Fixed Focus Cameras. IMany patterns are constructed which need no focussing and, indeed, have no arrangement for it. The advantages of these lay in the fact that judgment as to distance is not required, the focus is always correct, and no time is lost in estimating •and moving the indicator. Doubtless, especially to the begin- ner, these are important considerations. There are with all patterns some items to be remembered, such as setting the shutter, changing the last plate, uncovering the front of the lens and other things. In some patterns the operations are numerous, and the removal of uncertainty as to correct focus- sing is a reUef. To make the matter of fixed focus clear, the foUowing table will show how it is arrived at. It is entirely a point con- nected with the focal length of the lens and the stop used. Focal length Fixed focus Fixed focus Fixed focus of Lens. ■with stop f 8. ■with stop f 11. with stop f 16. Inches Feet Inches Feet Inches Feet Inches 4i: 19 2 14 9 9 ^ 21 5 15 8 10 11 4f 23 10 17 5 12 1 21 ^2 TJie Hand Camera Manual. Focal length of Lena. Inches 5 Fixed focus ■with stop f 8. Feet Inches 26 5 Fixed focus •with stop f 11. Feet Inches 19 4 Fixed focus ■with stop f la. Feet Inches 18 5 H 29 1 21 3 14 9 H 31 11 23 4 IG 2 51- 34 11 25 6 17 8 6 38 27 9 19 3 At these distances * the objects are sharp and everything beyond is the same. The disadvantage of a fixed focus camera is that the lens, is usually a short focus one, and this causes two troubles: — 1 — Smallness of the principal object. 2— Eisk of distortion. With a short focus lens the camera not only requires to b& very near to the object to get it of any size upon the plate, but it d-warfs the distance and thereby gives sometimes rather an untrue representation of nature. If the ■worker could al-ways ensure approaching as close to the object he desires to photo- graph as he could -wish, matters would not be so bad. But in numerous instances it will be found that the camera is J compelled to be upon a certain spot. Supposmg a yacht is. too far off, the hand camera man cannot walk a few yards nearer on the top of the water. In addition to this the fact. that his camera is so constructed that it wiU not take objects,, let us say nearer than 20 feet, will make the result disap- pointing in many instances. For general ■views embracing: some amount of angle, the short focus lens answers fairly well, except the tendency before referred to of dwarfing the dis- tance, thereby altering the perspective as viewed by the eye and carried away in our memory. But with figure studies, especially those of a single figure, the short focus lens will prove itself a positive drawback. Suppose, for instance, a well- Varieties of Construction. 23 tnown beggar, one of local renown, the victim of the glowing local press interviewer. In exposing a plate upon him, with a camera fixed at 12 to 15 feet distance, he would occupy barely two-thirds of the plate in height. The rest would be fore- ground and environment. But with a camera that will focus to, say, 6 feet, the same figure could be made large enough to be cut off at the knees. The other point may be dealt with briefly by the axiom that the shorter the focus of a lens, the plate size being the same, the greater the risk of distortion when buildings, or other objects comprising straight lines, are included in the view. Therefore, against advantages of a fixed focus camera, must be placed these considerations. Films or Plates. The sensitive emulsion is coated upon glass, and also upon celluloid fihn, and though to term them plates and films is hardly correct, inasmuch as "film" also applies to the gelatine upon the glass, yet, commercially, they are the usually accepted terms. Some patterns of hand cameras are made exclusively for films, either in a continuous roU, or cut to standard sizes, the same as plates. However, a distinct division cannot be drawn between film and plate cameras, because they are so intermixed. Cut films can be used in nearly all plate cameras, and reliable film can be attached to some also. The latter, however, needs a special roll holder. The beginner will no doubt be wise in facing the question at the outset, and make his choice accordingly. As a means of comparison I wiU take the film against the plate. Its advantages are : — 1— Enormous decrease in weight and bulk. 2 — Freedom from liabUity of breakage. 3— Easy transit by post. '24 The Hand Camera Manual. The difference ia the weight and bulk almost requires to be seen to be appreciated. Dealing first with the continuous rolls, each of which containing 48 or 60 exposures, the weight is so trifling that only the bulk need be considered. The advantages of the film are best felt upon a journey or tour, especially if the traveller be away from places where he could obtain fresh supplies of material. Twenty rolls of 48 exposures, would hardly make any difference to the luggage, and would give 960 at his disposal. Compare this with plates and the gain is really enormous. A box of quarter plates weighs on the average 1|- lbs, which would give a total weight for the above number of 100 lbs. Moreover, much greater space of packing would be required. Even vidth a lesser number the gain, is worth consideration. I presiune few workers would go for even a trip on the Continent with less than a gross of expo- sures; with the roll system it would only necessitate 2 rolls of 60 or 3 of 48, weight probably 9 oz, whereas 12 dozen plates would weigh at least 15 lbs. The roU holder, or receptacle for the film, is also smaller and lighter than three double dark shdes, say, or the com- partment in a magazine pattern. Cut films, though shghtly heavier, owing to a greater thick- ness of the celluloid, and the packing paper (they are usually put up in dozens), have much the same advantage over plates. Another point of some account occasionally, is that the rough handling the bags and boxes receive in the course of our travels, has but little effect upon films, whereas with glass plates it is always a matter of concern and anxiety. There is usually quite enough worry with trains, boats, and hotels upon the tour, without wearing our lives out with careful watching of the bag or box carrjdng the plates. And how annoying the breakage of the results secured upon a trip is, can only be understood by the enthusiastic worker. Varieties of Construction. 25 The last feature, the transmission by post, is one that will only present itself at intervals, but, to say nothing of the cost, the freedom of films from liability to accident in the post is a great boon. The storage of glass negatives, in time becomes a weighty matter in both senses. Films, however, can be merely placed between the leaves of a book to keep flat. Whilst upon the question of films, it will be well to consider the pros and cons of the cut versus the roUable varieties. The latter is very much thinner and lighter, and being in a continuous roU, not only gives the power thereby of carrjdng a greater number, but admits of a larger number of exposures being made without recourse to a dark room for changing •purposes. On the other hand cut films ar6 more easily handled in the chemical operations, being thicker, and this feature sometimes proves an advantage in exposing. With a roll but little can be done until the full number of exposures are made, but with cut films it is possible to ■expose just as desired. There is not very much in this last point however. It is one of the great features of photography that to move in any one direction of convenience or utihty, is generally at the expense of some other. The adage that in this world one cannot have everything, is peculiarly true in photography. And it is so with films. The drawbacks are: — 1 — Not so rapid (i.e. sensitive) as plates. 2— More trouble in the chemical operations. It must be obvious that in instantaneous work, much depends upon the sensitiveness of the plate. Up to the present time films are hardly made as sensitive to light as plates. Why it should be so is a puzzle to many people, but nevertheless it is a fact, and must be accepted as such. 26 The Hand Camera Manual. The thin nature of the support , and its tendency to curl, makes the film, especially the rollaWe one, very much more troublesome than the glass plate in all the after operations. To sum up the matter the beginner would do well perhaps- to commence with a camera designed for plates. In this probably he will be able to use films if desired, but if he starts with a camera for films only, the probability is- that the use of plates will not be feasible, owing to its special construction. The Plain Box Pattern. The above title originates from the fact that the earlier forms consisted of an ordinary camera placed in a box. These- were the earliest patterns, and are stiU held in great esteem by some workers. The greatest features- of this pattern, and prob- ably those that make it still a favourite with some, in spite of the clever and ingenious mechanical con- structions of the present day are: — 1— The use of dark slides. 2 — Power of using more' ^'s- 4- than one lens. 3 — Adaptability for use on a stand for time exposures. Dark slides give the advantage possessed by few magazin& patterns, of using any one particular plate. A maxim with which I shall deal later on, is to use the slowest plate that ia Varieties of Construction. 27 feasible. But it often happens that something occurs requir- ing a very rapid plate. Dark slides permit of the change- being readily made. Another advantage is, that if by any error a plate be spoilt,, the others are not interfered with. Should a plate stick in. the slide or drop out, only that one is lost. Whereas in a^ magazine camera, the sticking of one may prevent all further use of the camera until it can be overhauled in the dark room. Lastly, the access of light to the plates, by either accident or meddling, may spoil the whole contents of the magazine, but. is unlikely to happen to both sides of each dark slide. In the chapter upon the lens the single and double combi- nations are compared, and the focal length referred to. In many box patterns the power is given of using more than one- lens, which is ofttunes a great boon. There are occasions when time exposures are necessary,, that is exposures lasting several seconds or even minutes.. Interiors usually require a longer time than it is possible to- give in the ordinary way with the camera in the hand. This, is managed by fixing it- upon a tripod stand or other support. In the usual run of hand camera work, these kind of pictures, only form a small share. But they certainly do present them- selves, and the box pattern as a rule is more easUy adaptable^ The disadvantages He in the fact that dark shdes are more bulky, and if carried in the camera itself they make it somewhat cumbersome, and the other alternative— that of a second pack- age — is occasionally objectionable. They also take more time- in changing for the next exposure, and reveal very plainly the nature of the box itself. This latter feature is sometimes, rather an important one, especially in street work. The Bag Changer. This pattern is a sort of half-way house between those- 28 The Hand Camera Manual. using dark slides, and the actual automatic changers, because although the plates are in a magazine one against the other, the fingers are used to effect the change. The illustration shows pretty clearly the working of this method of changing. The plates are in sheaths of metal, and they are stored one against the other with the film side of the plate towards the lens. The compart- ment in which the sheaths are stored is usually one end of the box or case, but in some pat- Fig. 5. terns it is a distinct box and removable. A slight spring at the back keeps the sheaths pressed forward into what is termed the correct register, that is, the exact place for correct focus. Upon the top a bag con- structed of opaque material is filled, flexible . enough to permit •of the sheath being grasped by the fingers outside. At the bottom or side of the case or box, is a lever which when moved raises the sheath high enough in the box to allow of its being grasped by the fingers. It is then lifted clear of the other sheaths and removed either from front to back or vice-versa. This method of replacing exposed plates or films by fi-esh ■ones, is extremely simple in action, and with but sHght practice works excellently. It is neat in size, being only just large enough to hold the sheaths, with perhaps a -I- or ^J- inch •extra on top for the bag when folded flat. Much, however, ■depends upon the shape and nature of the material used in making the bag. If too flexible it will fall into troublesome folds, and if too stiff it will not work well. The shape has perhaps more to answer for in this respect than anything else. Varieties of Construction. 29 The Automatic Changer. Now we come to a very extensive collection wherein classi- fication is next to an impossibility. However, there are three main principles upon which some sort of order can be placed. These are: — 1 — The grooved reservoir. 2 — Lever movements. 3— The weU. The number of patterns put upon the market during the last three years is simply wonderful, but the advantages offered hy some in no wise differ from those already in existence. In fact, in many cases intricacy appears to have been almost the aim. We all admire clever ideas and ingenious mechanism, but when it comes to using such in a hand camera we must go- slow. In automatic changers the camera Inside is generally a sealed book except in the dark room, and if one plate does not work correctly probably the camera is thereby rendered useless. untU a visit be made to that room. The more intricate the mechanism the greater the chance of such a mishap. Be- ginners would do well not to be carried away by enthusiasm for a "clever camera," unless they can first obtain practical; experience with it in actual working. And this must consist in . actual use of the apparatus as a Hand Camera, not mere trial in a shop, or working the thing at home. It wants to travel about, and be used under var3dng circumstances. Thia is the only reliable test. The patterns having grooved reservoirs, are not numerous, but possess the merit of simplicity to a considerable extent. The principle, roughly described, consists of a storage box containing 12 grooves, in which the plates rest. At the 'bottom of this box is a slit just wide enough to admit one •30 The Hand Camera Manual. 3)]ate at a time to pass, and as the storage liox is moved along so each plate in turn falls into position. Preference should be given to those wherein the plates are in sheaths. Plates are not always cut mathematically true, -they may have a rough edge or a tiny projecting piece, either •of which make them very likely to stick. But the smooth and rounded off surface of the sheath does away with this liability, and, moreover, differences in the sizes of plates are provided for by the turned over part of the sheath. On the •other hand sheaths, of course, add to the weight, take more iime in loading up the camera, and cause a grinding action, if the plate be too thin or too small, to take place, which causes pinholes in the negatives. Lever movements owing to their variety and number are impossible to describe, though individually some will be found -described in a later chapter. They range from moderate simplicity to great complication. In some there are several movements required, and the order of these as well as accurate handHng must be observed. This enters another item to be reckoned and guarded against, as probably if movement B is made before another one A, disaster will foUow. Possibly the variety I have termed " Well System " are the most numerous in pattern. The principle is simple and not very hkely to get out of order. The plates (usually in sheaths) lie side by side and are pressed forward into position by a spring at the back. After one has been exposed, it is released by a catch or movement of some sort and falls by its own Tveight into the bottom of the camera, into a well in fact — hence the name. Occasionally a second movement, or a tilt of "the camera, is necessary to complete the operation. The drawback is a tendency to accumulate dust and dirt upon the plates, as they usually He loosely in the well, and may knock about freely whilst travelling. Varieties of Construction. 31 To sum up, the general advantages of automatic changers are : — 1 — Quick changing of plates. 2 — Secrecy in so doing. 3 — Eeduction of bulk and weight in most cases. Whilst on the other side, beyond the item of complication and the careful working required, we have : — 1 — Liability of plate turning stupid. 2— Compulsion of using plates in strict order. Eeaders wUl please understand that in all cases I deal generally with the principles of the majority. The exceptions are numerous, and, if taken into account at all, would render impossible any general idea of advantage or disadvantage. Reflectors. In most of the cameras previously dealt with, one or two small finders are usually fitted, the object of which I have explained. But to some they are not sufficient, and as they serve no purpose whatever in connection with focussing, a form of camera containing a mirror has been devised. The points of this principle are:— 1 — Image full size of plate on finder. 2— Can be focussed until the moment of exposure. The small finders are not of much use in studying the com position of a picture, as the image is not large enough. They merely serve to centre the objects desired. With a reflector, however, the picture is seen exactly as it wUl be upon the plate. Judging by distance — an acquired knowledge— is done away with. Moreover, in the case of moving objects the reflector possesses a great advantage, as the image as focussed upon the ground glass can at any instant be secured upon the plate. There are two forms of reflector cameras, one with two 32 The Hand Camera Manual. lenses of identical focus and angle, the other with only one lens. The former is more commercially known as the " Twin Lens," and consists of two compartments, one containing the plates and the other a mirror set at an angle to throw the image the right way up on to a piece of ground glass on the top of the camera. The mirror part may best be comprehended by stating that it is purely and simply a "Camera Obscura," with which aE are familiar. In the other form of reflector only one lens is used. The mirror is so arranged that it covers the plate from Hght, but when the exposure is made it flies out of the way altogether. There is not much need for comparisons between the two, but two lenses entail greater cost originally and a bulkier body or case. But upon the whole the twin lens principle has certainly worked well. CHAPTER VI. THE HAND CAMERAS OF TO-DAY. It is absolutely impossible that the various cameras upon the market should be described with any sort of completeness. Many of those manufactured differ but slightly from others, and nothing would be gained by describing those not likely to be met with by the would-be purchaser. I must content myself with a brief reference to the most popular and best known. Whether that popularity be attained by merit or by the almighty power of advertisement, is no concern of mine in these pages. If a reader wishes to invest in a hand camera, and goes to a general dealer or a manufacturer, he will be most Ukely to find certain patterns, and it is just these that I shall endeavour to include. Probably some local make may be a favourite in its own district, but readers can rely that my knowledge of the popu- larity of particidar hand cameras in every part of Great Brittain is based upon considerable experience. The "Key." Features :— Special form dark sUdes. One of this camera's strongest points is its great neatness of dimension. A special form of dark slide is made, with a revolving opening at one end, and each carries two plates. It is placed upon the top of the camera as shown by the 3 34 The Hand Camera Manual. dotted lines, and the plate then falls into the exposure chamber, the slide being then turned down as shown in the illustration. The reverse action returns the plate to the slide. It is exceed- ingly small and very light in weight. Fig. 1. Fig. 2. The 'Ross Bag." Features:— Grooved Eeservoir. In this case the term " bag' refers to the external appearance (Fig. 1), not to the principle of changing. A grooved magazine or reservoir for 24 plates slides up and down, and is covered with a Venetian pattern shutter. This latter is drawn up until The Hand Cameras of To-day. 35 the number indicating the plate desired to be used is seen. The whole magazine is then bodily pulled up as far as it wiU go and the camera tilted, when the plate sUdes into the exposure chamber a small spring, turned up by a dial, keeping it up to close focus register. Fig. 1. 1 1= - The "Alpha." Features:— Universal use. This is made in box form, of sufficient size to contain, when closed, the bellows, front, lens, shutter, and finder. The front of the box falls down to form a base, and is held rigid and horizontal by a strut, which is fixed by being pressed home into a notch at its upper end; to close the Camera the strut is slightly lifted and it will then fold in as the box is closed. The front of the camera is extended along the base, and there is a scale with distances marked on it, by which the focus can be immediately set, but a ground glass screen is also supplied to use if desired. A socket is fixed in the side and base to attach to a tripod. The finder is so arranged that the view may be seen either by looking into or through it, according to the position in which the camera is held; there are two fittings to receive it— for vertical and horizontal picttires. 36 The Hand Camera Manual. "The Facile" Features:— Grooved Reservoir. The action of this camera is exceedingly simple. In Fig. 2 it will be seen that there are two reservoirs, and both of these are grooved. The upper one containing the unexposed plates Fig- 1- Pig. 2. is moved by rack and pinion over a corresponding vacant "groove in the lower chamber, the plate falls and is ready for exposure. The rack and pinion moves both reservoirs at the same time. A well known camera. The 'Bond Street." Features : —Universal Use. The exterior is covered in with stout sewn leather and the interior finished black, so as to be as unob- trusive as possible. It is very compact, the size for plates 5x4 inches being 7 X 3| X 6 in. only. It is supplied with, a sling to form a handle for carryings and to support the apparatus upon the chest when used as a hand camera. The back opening is fitted with a concealed full-size focussing screen, the front has horizontal and vertical The Hand Cameras of To-day. 37 sliding motions, aind the focussing is effected by rack and pinion. The range of adjustment is sufficient for a long-focus lens, and the shortest focus wide-angle lenses can also be used. The reversing finder is made exactly to the scale of a quarter of an inch to the inch focus of lens, the tailboard folds up, and when closed conceals the lens and shutter, &c. When closed it presents the appearance of a neat black leather hand case. A divided scale for various distances, and two bushes for tripod screw are fitted to each camera. Dark slides for plates or cut films, roll-holders or changing-boxes, may be used at wOl. Fig. 1. Fig. 2. The ' Combination.'' Feature : Universal use. This instrument has all the movements and range of an ordinary tourist camera, having rising and falUng front, central swing back, focussing screen, reversing frame, leather bellows, extra long extension (13 inches in the \ pt. size), enabling back combination of Eectilinear lenses to be used as a single lens, closing to 3 in., so that a wide angle lens may be used ; a bush and screw for tripod is provided; focussing by rack and pinion. A Thornton-Pickard shutter is used, though any other can be fixed if preferred. Either a changing box or 38 The Hand Camera Manual. slides may be used, and carried inside the camera. The in- strument is pohshed inside, and covered with leather externally. Fig. 1 shows the camera closed for use as a hand-camera, whilst Pig. 2 shows it fixed on a stand, in use with an extra long-focus lens. The "Talmer." Features: — Bag-changer; large finders. A popular bag-changer. The interior of the plate-chamber is lined with thin metal plates, which diminish the formation of dust in the interior of the camera. Fig. 1 shows the camera with lid down for changing the . plate. One feature of this camera is an ever-set shutter, or rather one which is set by a changing mechanism from the plate-lifter; so that in changing the plate the shutter is set at the same time. The shutter is of novel construction, — tbp fiperture automatically closing whilst setting, and on release by the trigger, which is placed in a convenient position s for the fingers, the ex- posure is made, and varies from 1/50 to one second, according as set by an adjustable scale on the outside of the camera. Twelve plates, or cut fihns may be carried. Pig. 1. The Hand Cameras of lo-day. 39 The " Adams." Features :— 12 plats or 24 films or roll holder. Pig. 1 shows the camera closed up ready for transit. In use two flaps spring out in front and a sliding part is drawn Fig. 1. Fig. 2. out when the camera is, as shown in Fig. 2., quite ready for use. The great convenience of this pattern is that it readily adapts itself for use with a roll holder, though usually the changing box is fitted, as in Figs. 3 and 4, showing the box closed ready for insertion in the camera, or for removal to Fig. 3. Fig. 4. make way for a fresh box. Fig. 4 shows the box in the camera. One great feature too, is the wonderful neatness of the case when folded up, a i plate measuring 7 X 5| X 6^ and weighing a mere trifle over 4 lbs. 40 The Hand Camera Manual. The "Rover/ Features: — Lever movement. In this camera there are really three chambers, one at the top in which the plates are stored in sheaths or carriers, the camera itself, and a space at the back for the plates after exposure. The method of changing is, to press the lever at the bottom slightly forward, which allows the plate to faE into The "Eovor." the lever. This, when moved backward, places the plate into position. After exposure a Venetian shutter which covers the receptacle at the back is withdrawn, and the plate falls therein, the shutter being then replaced. One advantage of this camera is that the plate is only in front of the lens when required, as each of the three chambers is lightproof. The 'Shuttle." Features: — Automatic changer. A very simple changing method is here employed, upon the principle, in fact, of the weaver's shuttle, hence the name. A rod is merely pulled out at the front, and then pushed back again, this movement setting the shutter for the next exposure The Hand Cameras of To-day. 41 as well as changing the plate. Since its first introduction, although the prin ciple remains the same, it has been considerably improved in accessory details. The' Artist." Features: — Dark slides. Portability The illustration shows' the camera ready for work but, for carrying about, the lens is detached and put inside the camera, wherein also are two dark slides, one at each side. The third slide is carried in position at the back. They are of ingenious design and very hght, only one shutter, so to speak, being required for the two plates. The outside of the slide is pulled down in each case. The whole apparatus (\ plates) measures only 6f X 5f X 5. 42 The Hand Camera Manual. The "Twin Lens Ideal." Features: — Full size finder. Auto- matic changer. \ In discribing this. ( class of cameras they have been referred to as possessing a mirror. In the present one^ however, a plain white- card is uses instead. The idea is simplicity itself, and the advantage V is gained of being able: to see the picture both horizontally and ver- tically, which is not possible in a twin lens hand camera with a As will be seen by the illustration, a hood, in which is a narrow slit, covers the finder opening. Even in the strongest sunlight the image is clearly defined. The various parts are conveniently arranged, the focussing being done by the right hand, whilst the left supports the camera, and one finger fires the shutter. There are other improvements too, a most use- ful one being a rising and cross-front, which, of course, gives the same movement whichever way the picture be taken. The shutter, gives a range of speed from one sec. to ^^^ sec. The setting of diaphragms, speed of shutter, and rising front clarap, are aU in the front, whilst tho discharge and time arrangement of the shutter only pre underneath. The " Eversef principle is employed. Altogether, here we have a camera giving the full-size picture either way, capable of being focussed mirror. The Hand Cameras of To-day. 4S Tip to the firing of the shutter, with automatic magazine chang- ing for twelve plates, and rising and cross fronts. It measures. 8-J- X 4f X 8f , and weighs a trifle over 51bs. loaded with sheaths. The changing method is the same as the " Ideal, ° except that, the plates are pulled up instead of down. The " Vanneck." Features : — Eeflec- tor Bag changer. The usual system of the bag changer is here followed, but the camera also contains a focussing finder, that is, one giving the image direct from the lens and capable of being focussed up to the moment of exposure, instead of the usual little finders. This finder is shown on the top, in the centre of the box. ^ mpj-;- -rF BH The 'Radial." Features:— Grooved Eeservoir. The difference between this and other patterns is that the reservoir is fixed. The name is really due to the plate recep- 44 The Hand Camera Manual. tacle (E) which revolves in a half circle. This is so fitted that it rests across the body of the camera at the correct focus ■distance. In line with its centre a series of 12 grooves, running at different angles to the back, are arranged. The plates are placed in these grooves and the carrying or exposing receptacle moved round by the handle H, until a catch piece locks in a dial cut upon another dial which corresponds with the number of the plate. In this position the receptacle is in a direct line with the groove, and upon holding the camera in such a position that the line of this is vertical, the plate falls into its proper place, and is then turned into position. I Fig. 1. The "Kodak." Features: — Continuous film. Probably these cameras are better known to the general public than any others. They are made in a great numbeii of patterns, which vary principally in the size of picture and •capacity for exposures. Fig. 1 shows the smaller and less •expensive series [and Fig. 2 there more elaborate folding patterns, which are arranged for the ;use of short and long focus lenses, etc. In all of them a roll of film sufficient for 60 to 100 exposures is carried, and this fact coupled with that •of lightness makes them especially suitable for foreign travel. The Hand Cameras of To-day. 45. w^m I Fig. 3. Pig. 4. Figs. 3 and 4 show a series of flat folding Kodaks which are exceedingly convenient to carry. 46 The Hand Camera Manual. The "Portable Divided." Fea- tures: — Twin lens. In this pattern two lenses are used, the top one serving, by the aid of a mirror, as a full size finder whereas the lower one has upon it the shutter, and the compartment behind holds the plate. The illustration shows it upon a tripod for time work, but it is, of course, usable in the hands just the same. The covering hood on top, helps to make the image clearer upon the ground glass screen by shading it from the light all round. The "Binocular." This is in shape of a field glass, one lens being used as a finder and the other, of course, for the exposures. When ■charged with plates it only weighs 19 oz., and is arranged for twelve exposures upon plates measuring 2J X 1| inches. The Hand Cameras of To-day. 47 Some idea of the arrangement and changing method may- be gleaned from the above illustration. It is very neat, effec- tive in use, and the results shown are good. Fig. 1. The "Hawkeye." Features:— EoUable film. These cameras are made in so many patterns to suit differ- ent Tequirementsxthat 1 must content myself I with a brief reference. Fig. 1 shows the No. 3 size which measures when closed as in Fig. 2, 8 X ej X 5| inches, and carries a roU of film sufficient for 100 pictures 5x4 inches. Some of the patterns are arranged for plates and cut films in addition to the roll, but the one illustrated is not and gains in compactness thereby. Fig. 2. 48 The Hand Camera Manual. Economic." Features:— Bag changer; metal-lined as regards The chamber. This is an instrument similar to the ' Talmer plate-changing Fig. 1. It has the distinctive feature that any lens may be fitted to it, and it is sold without lens so that the purchaser may fit his own in the same way as to an ordinary camera. It has a Thornton- Pickard shutter, giving time and instantaneous exposures, and an automatic safety shutter working behind the lens, by which the lens is cut off from the plate except at the moment of exposure. The "Prena." Features:— Cut films. This ingenious camera offers the advantages of carrying 40 cut films, combined with very great neatness of deraension. Fig. ]. The changing is effected by the handle shown in Pig. 1 being revolved. Each film is cut as shown in Fig. 2 and a The Hand Cameras of To-day. 49 thin piece of cardboard rests behind. The films and backing cards lie one behind the other perfectly flat, and the store box is really surprisingly small. Fig. 3 will give some idea of this box. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. The little points a hold the film, and the action of turning the handle moves these points so that they come opposite the cut parts of the film. As these points a hold the film ready for exposure, the move- ment of them over the openings must allow the film and card to fall. The interior working is shown in Fig. 4. A swing back is provided for by moving the handle either way, and a useful spirit level therein supplies the information as to correct position. The Fig. 4. " Prena ° is a fixed focus pattern in its ordinary form, but by a series of magnifiers inserted quite readily in front of the lens, shorter distances are arranged for. 4 50 The Hand Camera Manual. t Fig. 1. Fig. 2. The 'Primus." Features:— Dark slides. Neatness. This is one of the smallest non-collapsible patterns using dark slides. Fig. 1 shows the camera on a tripod with rising and cross front, also a swing back. The dark slides (Fig. 3) are exceedingly neat being made of mahogany ebonised and with aluminium caps to the shutters and fittings. Fig. 2 is a stereoscopic pattern of the same camera. The weight of Fig. 1 is 2 lbs. and it measures 7f X 5^ X 4 inches. The "Ideal." Fea- tures : — Lever move- ment. The actual movement required to change the plate is simply the pulling down and push- ing back of a brass rod. There are two chambers or reservoirs, the plates (in sheaths) being first inserted in Fig. 1. The Hand Cameras of To-day. 51 the upper one, where they rest upen two narrow ledges of metal. At the end of this nearest to the lens, these ledges are cut to allow of the passage down of the foremost sheath, when pulled down by the rod. The latter at its centre branches off at right angles into a kind of pronged fork, £^nd upon the top of each the brass is turned over to form a catch. When, therefore, the rod E is pulled down it brings with it the sheath and plate. It has cross and rising front moved by rackwork from below and is fitted with the new "Brilliant" finders — a distinct advance upon these useful accessories. The usual mirror and ground glass is absent and the principle gives a brilUant image even in the brightest sunshine. Altogether, with its simplicity and certainty the " Ideal ' is one of the most popular cameras. The "DaUmeyer." Features:— Novel dark slides. In this pattern lenses of varying foci may be used, but the great novelty is the kind of dark sHdes, see Pig. 2. They are perfectly light-tight, and open book-form by means of a small lever, the shutters being made of thin corrugated sheet steel to ensure rigidity with compactness, and at the same time to avoid the possibility of reflection when the slide is open 52 The Hand Camera Manual. inside the camera. The slides are very light and thin, 6 double slides occupying a space of 2%" only. Either plates or films Kg. 1. can be used, and the entire surface of the sensitive film is exposed to the action of the light, the plate being held in position at its four corners. In general details the aim of this well-known lens maker has been to avoid complication, and to build a simple, compact, and useful camera, in which he has succeeded. The Hand Cameras of To-day. 53 •^^ .rOMBINEDrAMERAANDCBAPHOSCOF Fig. I. The 'Kombi." Features: — Pocket camera. EoUable Film. When I say that Fig. 1 represents the actual size of thisi ingenious little camera, the fact that it is a pocket camera will be patent to all. Of course the pictures are small, but they are capable of enlargement the same as any others. Fig. 2 gives the exact size of the resulting picture. It is not a toy by any means, but a properly designed and constructed '^' ■ camera, using a continuous film for 25 exposures, and only weighing 4 ounces. TAKES A PigtuRE nisgiZE •ROUND • 54 The Hand Camera Manual. The ' Bull's-Eye." Features:— Continuous film; daylight changing. Fig. 1. Fig. 2. This is a wonderfully neat and compact camera for 12 exposures upon a rolled film, or as a secondary feature plates can be used as well. Pigs. 1 and 2 show the camera as in ordinary use, measuring 5| X 4f X 4-|^ inches and weighing 25 ounces only. The light proof film cartridges, as they are termed, are exceedingly convenient, as the lot of exposures can be replaced by a fresh cartridge in broad daylight and anywhere. This makes the BuU's-Eye a most suitable camera for travellers, who may not be able to command the use of a dark room just when required. Fig. 1. Fig. 2. , The "Tit-Bits." Features: — Metal slides. Cheapness. The Hand Cameras of To-day. 55 These are amongst the best of the many cheap patterns upon the market. They are well made and capable of the best work. Fig. 1 shows one that retails at 12/6 and Fig. 2 a better quality, with pneumatic attachment to the shutter. Fig. 3 is a stereoscopic pattern. They are all of excellent value for the money. fiff^""""^ Fig. 3. The "Vesta." Features:— Great Portability. In this pattern every effort has been made to obtain porta- bility, and it will readily go into any ordinary pocket. Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 1 shows the camera folded, the dotted lines showing the movement when opened out as in Fig. 2, the lens being merely pulled down. The complete apparatus measures when closed 7| X 4| X 1^ inches and weighs only 1 lb. The "Vesta ' is the very acme of portability, the result of great ingenuity in construction. 56 The Hand Camera Manual. The ' Perse." Features:— Carries 50 cut films. The principle of the changing method is simple and effective. The films are stored, in the magazine with a card behind each, and these cards are of different dimensions to the film (Pig. 2) Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Fig. 3 shows the film or plate against the four points before the backing card is inserted. Now, upon turning the points by means of a lever outside, the film is released, and then when the lever returns the points or catches to their original positions the card falls also. The position of the catches inside can The Hand Cameras of To-day. 57 Fig. i. be seen in Pig. 4. To prevent any light action upon the exposures already made, there is a light metal platform or shield, actuated by the same lever. In changing this shield rises up (covering the lens), and is returned by merely pressing a httle catch. One very useful point about this camera is that the finder is movable to correspond with the position of the front — a distinct step in advance. The "Tourist." Features:— Box form- with dark slides. In the above six double dark slides are carried in the camera itself, in the back portion of it. It has both rising and falling fronts and is covered with Morocco Leather. Outside size 11 X 6| X 4f and weight complete 4J lbs. A very useful and simple pattern. 58 The Hand Camera Manual. .J. ■ , 1 The "Folding Kamaret." Features :—Eollable film. Com- pactness, .■■ii Fig. 1. Fig. 2. As the name implies this pattern has been devised for porta- bility when closed. Fig. 2 shows the extreme convenience of the shape (quite like a book), the thickness being 3^ inches only. In its other details it is much the same as the Hawkeye. CHAPTER Vn. THE PURCHASE OF A HAND CAMERA. I CANNOT say which is the best camera, for the very simple reason that there is no best, and probably never wiU be. The whole matter of choice rests with the wishes of the purchaser, and the nature of the work he desires the camera ftir. I mean by this, the class of subject he is Kkely to be most addicted to. It must not be understood from this that each pattern is only suitable for one class of work, because it is not so even with the majority, and with some almost every subject can be tackled. But the point is, that as a rule the style of the camera makes it more suitable for work in one direction than another. A classification of subjects is difficiilt, being so very much under the control of circumstances. But to make an attempt I wiQ deal with them as foUows: — Street Scenes, Incidents, etc., where secrecy is a desirable feature. Landscapes and Seascapes of ordinary nature. Architecture, Interiors and the hke, presenting difficulties. At first sight it may appear only necessary to go in for a universal pattern. Many an amateur has the idea that if he only has a camera that wiQ do everything, he is all right. 60 The Hand Camera Manual. So he gets an ordinary double extension camera in a box or basket. He has swing back, rising and cross fronts, can use three or four lenses, can focus the image in the usual way when required, and so on. He tells you he can do everything with his hand camera that can be done with an ordinary camera. This is, perhaps, true. Then also that he is ready for anything that may turn up. Here he is distinctly wrong. His camera has too many adjustments that -need seeing after to permit of this statement being correct. This brings me to the point I wish to emphasize, which is, that no one camera is equally suitable for all classes of work. And unless we can aiford two cameras, the one most suited to our tastes as regards nature of exposures must be chosen. That may be a Universal pattern, if these tastes run in the direction of landscapes, interiors of churches, architectural studies, &c. But for street work and general knocking about, a simple automatic changer is much more suited. Between the bag-changers, those which allow the plate to fall in a well, spring lever movements, &c., I have but little preference. If I have a leaning at all, it is for a simple automatic changer, with two finders, and the power of focussing. For it should be remembered that the hand camera is not a substitute for, but an accessory to, the stand camera. For this reason I prefer simplicity before the complexity of those patterns which endeavour to provide every needful requisite for any kind of subject. My experience during the last six or seven years, during which it has been part of my duty to practically try and test the various makes, has led me still more deeply into a settled conviction that there are but few bad patterns upon the market. The more I deal with hand cameras, the more convinced I am that any clinging to the " best camera ' rock, is simple nonsense. There is one kind of man, the beginner should be beware of. It is the one that believes a certain camera to be the best The Purchase of a Hand Camera. 61 and admits no other to equal comparison — the one side man, in fact. Every man is entitled to his opinion, and he may very likely find one camera that suits his purpose best. There is no harm in this. What I object to is that this man, after really trying, perhaps, only two cameras, and seeing two others, and after about twelve months' experience, forthwith dilates upon his camera. This is really what it amounts to, because though he may somewhat grudgingly admit a point or two of merit to exist in other makes, he usually ends with a flattering testimonial to his own choice. I say beware of this man. We don't know his methods of work or his per- sonal preferences in the direction of subject. He may be left- handed, have only one eye, or be paralysed on one side. It is therefore impossible to place any reliance upon his choice of a camera, as some of these or other things may have governed his wishes. Up to the present, it looks somewhat as if i-i, is easier to warn than to advise, but if readers will refer back to Chapter V, they will find it contains a good deal of information upon the principles of cameras, and this should help them in choosing. Sizes of Plates. When plates are used the following are the usual sizes: — 3-J X ^^ inches lantern slide size 4rJ- X 3|^ , quarter plate 5X4 , termed simply 5X4 but by far the majority of cameras are made for the quarter plate size. The 5x4, however, gives a usefully larger print, which can be masked into an ordinary cabinet print if desired. Of course, with film cameras even larger sizes can be used, as far as weight is concerned. But difficulties arise with 62 The Hand Camera Manual. regard to the focal length of the lens, and the beginner would do well to limit himself to the above sizes. Study of the Camera. I should like to make a strong point of studjdng the working of the camera, before sallying forth in search of prey. This is, perhaps, more necessary with varieties (either of the automatic or other patterns) having a number of conveniences and appliances. The mere showing by the seller, or by a friend, is not enough. The camera should be examined, and practically worked in every possible way. It is necessary to know exactly what each lever or button accomplishes and how it is effected, what chances there are of sticking or something going wrong, where the weak points are. In some patterns it is necessary to perform the operation in a strict sequence. That is, lever A, say, must be moved before button B be pressed, or dire disaster follows. Sometimes pushing or pulling too hard, or with insufficient decision, wiU also cause failure. It is, perhaps, more important to know what must not be done, than the routine of correct manipulation. If the camera be thoroughly studied before use, failure wiU not dog the worker's footsteps as regards the mechanical movements. If he understands why a thing should be done in a particular way, or before something else, it will be far better than the mechanical following of instructions, verbal or printed. It will also help him perhaps in getting the camera right, should any accident, perchance beyond his control, occur. CHAPTER Vm. USING THE CAMERA. A POINT that is only just beginning to dawn upon the photographer and mil take a few years longer to become appreciated by the general public, is that the hand camera is really a more difficult instrument to use than its confrere on the tripod. It is nevertheless distinctly a fact. The hand camera requires quickness of thought and rapid action— two attributes that are not always to be found together — combined with coolness and self reliance, and the whole environment of the instrument is a matter of speed. The successful worker I beheve to be bom rather than made, though very much may be done by study of the camera and actual practice. The hand camera, to my mind, exercises a considerable power of education, both mentally and physically. The directions I refer to are increased speed of artistic perception, improving the vision, and quickness of action and decision. It is, perhaps, true that the class of work principally undertaken by each worker wiU make this point of lesser or greater importance. One who goes in for street work of rapidly moving objects will benefit more in these respects than the landscape worker. Speed in work and thought in these go-ahead times is not to be sneered at, and I do positively assert that I can work at greater speed, think, and decide more quickly than before using a hand camera. Take the question of focussing rapidly, and, to illustrate it best, let it 64 The Hand Camera Manual. be tried on a full-size focussing screen upon an approaching object. A few trials mil prove how much more quickly it is possible to decide when actually sharp, and to fire the shutter, than it was at first. The whole question of thought and action following therefrom is quickened. To illustrate this, let me mention another capital test, that by electricity, a test of vision and action. A pistol is held in the hand and a disc watched. At a certain time a definite object passes this disc, and the task is to quickly fire the pistol, an electric arrangement of a black band registering the time that elapses between seeing the object and firing the pistol. Take any ordinary photographer (he must not be a shooting man, however), pit him against an experienced hand camera worker, and the difference in the fractions of the second will be startling. Nay, further, let the hand camera worker first try after a month or two's absence from the camera, and then, secondly after he has been with it in the streets that day. He wiU be struck with the improvement. I therefore claim that the hand camera so improves our vision, our thoughts, our actions,' in the direction of speed as to materially alter even a man's character. He decides and performs the result of the decision more quickly. He becomes sharp, prompt, and decisive, and past hesitations vanish. The use of a hand camera is therefore very largely a matter of practice, but as a few hints may prove useful I will first refer to the position of Holding the Camera. Considerable diversity of opinion surrounds this point, and it is also governed by the make of camera. Of course I refer strictly to natural positions, not those necessitated by emergency. The most comfortable and the least conspicuous position is 66 The Hand Camera Manual. down at the side under the arm, which the illustration will show better than any words could describe. At which side of the body it should be placed is dependent upon the shutter release to some extent; this latter should be away from the body, so that ■^hen the push is made the body gives the necessary support to avoid movement. For the majority of cameras this is probably the best position, but much will depend upon the position and action of the shutter release. And as it is in firing' tho shutter that movement takes place, the point is an important one. »wwww ^vi^^Uu. Woman Selling Mechanical Dolls. 68 The Hand Camera Manual. With cameras,, such as the Twin Lens and Eeflector patterns, where it is necessary to focus the image, a different position is required, in order to see the picture upon the ground glass more exactly. In front of the body against the chest is therefore more suitable. With the small finder, only the position of the various objects is sought and this does not need close vision. But the sharpness of the image is quite another matter and needs very close attention. The steadiness of the camera during exposure needs careful practice, as practically everything depends upon it. There- fore I would rather that beginners find out for them- selves the position in which it can be held most steadily, than adopt any recommended position because they are told to do so. Street Work. For ordinary landscape and marine work — as a rule, at all events— there is but Uttle need for any concealment of purpose. But in the street it is desirable for two reasons that the camera should not be detected. Firstly, because of the attention it will attract, and secondly, on account of the set poses that In Trafalgar Square, London. 70 The Hand Camera Manual. ■will follow. Every endeavour, at all events, should be made to prevent the people in the scene knowing that they are " going to be took ", or else they will all be found standing Uke plaster images staring at the camera for all they are worth. In any study of street life, character, or incident, natural grouping is essential. If it be, say, a fruit stall with customers, it would not be well rendered by each figure therein being represented as looking straight at the camera. It is. not natural, it is not business. Upon this subject one word of advice. The beginner must not trust to any attempts at concealment in the design of the camera itself. The day is long past when even a plain black box or a bag will deceive the public. No, rapidity of action and secrecy of movement wUl eifect the purpose in a more reliable fashion. The camera should not be raised or pointed until the exposure is possible, and this is where quickness of action comes to the front. If some- thing intervenes to prevent the exposure, the camera should be dropped at once. Above all things, the worker should endeavour to forget that he has anything of the kind with him, because if he pays attention to the camera, other folks wiU do the same very quickly. There are many little wiles and tricks— in fact, the up-to-date hand camera man should be a deceiver of the deepest dye- such as lighting a pipe or cigar, buttoning a coat, taking off the hat to wipe the forehead, blowing the nose, looking into a shop window, &c., &c. Anything and everything in fact \(> cheat the public, to deceive them as to purpose. A friend to talk to is also occasionally useful, but nine times out of ten he gets in the way, and is better left at home to mind the baby. It is also a mistake and a very common one, to regard the scene or objects too long or too fixedly. The worker should Using the Camera. 71 avoid teing seen to possess an interest, though he may keep the matter under close observation. "Let not your left hand know what your right hand doeth." Moving Objects. I must warn the beginner against a very common failure, that of firing at objects which are in reality moving at too great a speed. The following table will show at once what can be done and what should be left undone. Movemeut.per second Man walking 5 miles per hour 7-^ feet Vessel travelling at 20 knots „ 35 , Finish of Cycle Race 80 miles „ 44 , Express Train 50 „ „ 73 , To find the distance the object will move upon the plate it is only necessary to multiply the focus of the lens in inches by the distance moved by the object in the second, then divide the result by distance of the object (from the lens) in inches, and finally divide by the speed of the shutter. For example I wiU take the finish of a cycle race under ordinary hand camera conditions. The lens of h\ inch focus, the shutter working at the -^^^ of a second, and the object 10 feet away, the calculation would come out 5| X 44 = 242 H- 120 = 2 inches per second. Now as the shutter works at the ^'^*i' of a second, the movement upon the plate would be a fraction over -f^^^ or ^*^ of an inch. The resulting photograph would be a curiosity. In the above example the conditions are those of the majority of hand-cameras, as although the shutters are often put down as working at the t^*'' of a second or at even greater speed, considerable discount must be allowed upon these statements. The limit of movement upon the plate, if anything like a 72 The Hand Camera Manual. sharp image is desired, is the x^ir*'* '^^ ^'i inch. So that by working backwards we can find the shutter speed required or the distance from the object actually necessary. The speed would have to be increased to the -jrir*'' "^ * second, or with the same shutter (working at ■^''') the camera would have to be 2,106 feet 10 inches from the object, which is rather too far to walk. I trust these tables will prevent the beginner from wasting plates in the absurd fashion that I have seen done on many occasions. Of course the movement is calculated full broadside on, an object coming towards or receding from the camera is a much easier task. Time Exposures. It is rather awkward to refer to time exposures, that is, exposures needing a support for their accomplishment, because it is really not hand camera work at all. But there are occasions, when for want of light caused either by the dulness or lateness of the day, or by the scene or object itself, prolonged exposures are necessary. With practice a full second is easily managed, especially if the body be utilized to the best advantage. One great point in this is to first steady the body, by sitting down, or leaning against a support. Holding the breath during the exposure is recommended by some, but I have not found it of much a,ssistance, as the strain of so doing is as bad as the breathirig. For longer exposures I should strongly recommend a fixed support, and this is often obtainable by search. The top of a fence, gate, or wall, rough erection of stone or wood, for instance. Tripods may, of course, be pressed into service, and indeed, there are several varieties upon the market made specially SI 74 The Hand Camera Manual. portable for this very purpose. One of these is shown in the illustrations below. Fig. 1 being the stand folded and ready for Fig. 1 porterage, resembling a walking stick. Fig, 2 shows the method of setting up and Fig. 3 represents the stand completely Fig. 2. Fig. S. erected ready to receive the camera. In buildings, churches, &c, there are many opportunities afforded of local support, such as pews, two chairs placed back to back, &c. 76 The Hand Camera Manual. Dxiration of Exposures. One of the easiest questions to ask and the most difficult to answer, is " what length of exposure shall I give ". The whole matter is so governed by various factors that it is next to impossible to give any direct answer. The factors to be considered are the following : — l^The nature of subject. 2— Strength of the Ught. 3 — Aperture of the lens. 4— Speed of the plate. 5— Method of Development. The great difficulty is to bring home to beginners the great effect , of variation in any one of these points. They as a rule, do not grasp the importance of, say, 1, 2, and 3. Perhaps the following tables by Prof. Burton and Dr. Scott will be of assistance in the matter. Comparative Exposures. (Burton.) f 8 f 11 fl6 Sea and Sky 1 IT A tV iV' i i Open Landscape • Landscape with heavy foliage -^12. It wiU be observed that each stop as it decreases the aperture doubles the exposure. Thus, an exposure of one second with f 8 would be 2 seconds with f 11 and 4 seconds with f 16. These are given for ordinary slow plates, and should be decreased by one half at least for the most; rapid brands. Thus, for a well lighted landscape -^^^ of a second only (with an aperture of /' 8) would be required. The table is calculated for bright lighting. Using the Camera. 77 Another factor is the strength ot the hght. This is a most unreliable one to judge until experience comes to the rescue. The difference in the actinic power of the light, even in bright sunshine, between the morning and afternoon is great. Comparative Light Tables. (Scott.) Hour of Day June May April March I'eb. Jan. Dai* a. m. p. m. July August Sept. Got. Nov. uec< 12 1 li H 2 H 4 11 1 1 li H 2i 4 5 10 2 1 li 1| 3 5 6 9 3 li H 2 4 12 16 8 4 H H 2 3 10 7 5 2 2i 3 6 6 6 2i 3 6 5 7 5 6 4 8 12 It will be noticed that in any month the best time is between 10 and 2, when the light is strongest and with least variation. An the evening exposm-es present another difficulty, as with a yellow sunset the necessary time would have to be increased. Possibly to a beginner the following table wiQ be of first utility, the plate being of the rapid variety and the light good — sunshine really tl Sea and Sky Street Scenes (open) Landscape (open) -^ „ heavy foliage \ Interiors Anything from 3 or 4 minutes to several hours, according to amount of light. Outdoor Portraiture same as open landscape. 78 The Hand Camera Manual. If this last table be worked in conjunction with the others, it will be fairly simple to make comparative exposures, taking the light as Bright Sunshine 1 Cloudy bright 2 DuU 3 Gloomy 4 As a rough guide, if the lens in the hand camera has an aperture of /"S, on a bright sunshiny day, with a rapid plate— a street scene about midday in June will require -j'j-"' ■of a second. The beginner can make all other calculations from this, as a basis. But his own results will tell him more in this direction than I cau. a CHAPTER IX. THE DARK ROOM AND ACCESSORY APPARATUS. The first and foremost req[uirement of all photographers is what is misnamed the "Dark Room". Really it is not dark at all — but we'll let that pass. This may be a very rough and ready place, it may be practically no special place at all, or a special room comfortably fitted and arranged. It is a matter of pocket, and convenience at home. Any ordinary room can be used, at night especially, by drawing down all blinds and shutting out the various gas lights. But this necessitates waiting for night, it occasionally produces conflict in the household, and unless great care be used is not safe. If some pantry or cupboard can be obtained it will be very much better, especially if permanently allotted to the purpose. The main thing is to make it absolutely light tight, and this is not so easy as it would appear at the first blush. The room must be more than dark, it should be secure from the entrance of any light whatever, when the door is shut. A good plan to ensure this is to remain inside long enough for the eyes to get accustomed to the darkness. Then chinks and crannies will be readily detected. A number of dark room lamps are sold, which obviate any necessity for special lighting arrangements. Daylight may, however, be used if desired. A window or opening being The Dark Room and Accessory Apparatus. 81 covered by 2 The objection or to 3 thicknesses of some non-actinic medium. daylight is it's fluctuation in power. For this reason at all events direct sunlight must be care- fully avoided. Daylight, ho'sv- ever, is very comfortable to work in, the heat given off by lamp or gas being avoided. Probably the actual best method is a combination of window and gas, the jet being outside the room close to the window but controlled from the inside by a tap. I A standard light is a great assistance in judging one of the important points, vie: — A good gas burner will accomplish Lamp for gas. density of the negative, this, whereas daylight varies one day with another, and on some days is constantly changing. For covering a window or opening, the fabric sold as Canaiy medium is extremely convenient and costs but little. It only requires to be tacked across the space, three thicknesses being ample for the strongest gas light. For daylight I should recommend the addition of one thickness of Euby fabric. A movable framework will be found a great convenience, as then the thicknesses can be varied. This can either slide in simple grooving, or run up and down by a cord, and can be made at home by any one. 82 The Hand Camera Manual. In the rough sketch A.A. represents two pieces of grooving. B is a light framework of wood covered with a piece of Euby fabric. C is the lower blind, (the dotted lines representing the opening behind, which admits the light) covered with two thicknesses of Canary fabric. The upper blind B is balanced by the weight F, the cord passing over two pulley wheels at D.D. The lower blind C really goes up to point E, the double protection beiag useful to keep out the light at the joint. It will add considerably to the worker's comfort if the lower blind C. is also arranged to go up, enabUng him- to utilize the fuU light, which is occasionally useful. The arrangement wiU do for either daylight or gas, the latter being arranged outside. If the room be a small one it wiU be much better to have the artificial light outside, as the close atmosphere of a small room is certainly not conducive. to health. Eoughly speaking, the other requirements of a dark room are, a table, a receptacle for water, and a jug. But if a sink be available so much the better, as the inconvenience of a pail win soon be discovered. Water direct from the tap is also a great convenience, as it is so frequently in request. A shelf for bottles, &c, should also be provided. In the foregoing, I have teied to do with as little as possible, to suit the pocket of the beginner. And with the same end in view let me mention that very cheap ready fitted dark rooms are obtainable, of which the illustrations give a good The Dark Room and Accessory Apparatus. 83 idea. These Dark Eooms are made in sections, so that in travelling they can be packed flat. The sections— six in General Appearance. nmnber, consisting of four sides, a roof and a floor — can be easily put together in about five minutes. The roof is provided with a ventilator, while the floor is raised some two inches from the ground, so that a current of air is always circulating. 84 The Hand Camera Manual. Every board is tongued into its fellow, and the whole can be lined iis an exti'a precaution against light, The fittings consist of two shelves, a lead-lined sink, 12 in. by 9 in, (this size is ■*- hi 1 1, Showing Interior. only suitable for developing up to half-plate, for anything beyond, larger sinks should be used) which is provided with a pipe to conduct the waste into a bucket below or to the outside of Eoom. On either side of the sink is a bench on which to stand the odds and ends an operator must always The Dark Boom and Accessory Apparaf,us. 85 have at his fingers' ends when developing. The window — glazed with either ruby or orange glass — works in a sKde or groove, so that it can be easily pushed aside when white light is desired. Immediately underneath the window, on the outside, is fixed an ornamental iron bracket, on which may be stood an ordinary oil lamp. The size is6ft6x3fb6x3 feet and the cost .£220 only. For beginners living ia apartments and those who cannot spare a cupboard or room, these are very suitable, as they can be stood in a corner of the bedroom, kitchen, or an outhouse. If painted and with a different roof they can be stood out of doors. A small cistern on the top of roof or inside the room itself would give a convenient water supply, and these latter may also be purchased very cheaply. Accessories Reqtiired. Everything here will depend upon the pocket. ing list only the bare necessaries are quoted 1 Developing Dish 4J X SJ porcelain 1 Fixing , , , 2 drachm measure glass 4 oz ^ y, 1 Toning tray 8^ X 6^ porcelain 1 Fixing , , , Draining Eack to hold 12 plates 1 Printing Frame In the follow- Frobable cost s. d. — 7 — 7 — 6 —10 1— 1- 1— — 6 6- 86 The Hand Camera Manual. If the beginner starts with these, he can add according to his requirements later on. There is considerable variety of choice in de- veloping and fixing trays or dishes. They are made in glass, porcelain, vul- canite and celluloid. The latter two are much Ughter to handle, but for cleanUness and comfort I recommend what is known as the deep porcelain (see illustration). The draining rack is for the purpose of drying the plate after the final washing, and is extremely useful. It allows a better current of air to circulate than when the plate is stood up on a shelf to dry, the plates take up much less room, and they are kept away from dust. The printing frame is also made in several patterns, but the one illustrated is about the simplest and most convenient. The cheaper kinds are usually made in oak. Its purpose wiU be explained later on. when we come to matters connected with printing. The measure glasses need no description. They are used in development as well as in the mixing and making up of chemical solutions. The Bark Boom and Accessory Apparatus. 87 Other Conveniences. If daylight inside the dark room be not obtainable at mU, artificial hght ■will be required. So many things can be done, such as cleaning the dishes and glasses, washing the plates, &c, in a strong hght, that it is very necessary. If gas be utilized, I would recommend one of the self lighting burners. In these there is an arrange- ment for turning out the hght, but stni leaving a tiny jet ready to Ught up the main burner when required. This obviates the rehghting of the gas, the finding of the matches, &c. The cost is very small and in other ways, such as Bromide Printing or Lantern Slide making, they are extremely useful. If water from a tap be available, it is better in washing the plates that the fall be through a rose sprinkler, rather than that the force should be in one stream. A permanent rose tap, however, is troublesome, when filling bottles or measure glasses. The illustration shows a httle brass attachment, which is merely placed on the tap as required — a piece of India rubber making a tight joint. This is also quite inex- pensive. When many plates have to be washed, considerable time is- occupied if they be done singly. There are numerous appa- ratuses sold, which very effectually accomplish the desired washing and without personal attention. By means of a syphon Rose Spriiikler. Washing Through. The Dark Room and Accessory Apparatus. 89 the tanks empty and refill in rotation. The plates are placed in metal racks, and water allowed to flow in from the tap. The iUustration shows one of the most recent introductions ia this line, and one that answers admirably. The cost is about 10s. A broad flat camel hair brush, to dust the plates before putting in the camera, and afterwards before development is, also a convenience, tending moreover to prevent annoying spots caused by dust and dirt upon the plates. Chemicals. It wiQ be well if the beginner makes his first attempts with ready prepared solutions. When he begins to succeed in producing good negatives, he can then mix his own developing solutions. But there are one or two chemicals that should be purchased at the outset. These are: Hyposulphite of Soda 2 or 3 lbs 2"* per lb Ground Alum 1 lb 3* , , Chloride of Gold 15 gr tube 1/10 to 2/— CHAPTER X. PLATES AND DEVELOPMENT. Presuming now that everything is in readiness for work, the Camera requires loading with the prepared plates. There are a numher of makers of plates, and not only would it be impolitic upon my part to recommend one maker before another, but many years of practical work have convinced me that provided the instructions of each maker are followed, good results wiU be obtained. At aU events, the following are^aU reliable makes and easily obtainable. Ordinary. Ilford (yellow label) Cadett ordinary Edwards Castle Phoenix Imperial Thomas Mediiun. Hford (white label) Paget XXX Bapid. Ilford (red label) Cadett Lightning Edwards Mawson Paget XXXXX Imperial Thomas The prices are much the same all round, and in the two usual hand-camera sizes are, per dozen, about Ordinary. Mediiun. Rapid. 41 X 3J a plate) 1/- 1/3 1/6 5X4 1/7 2/— 2/7 Plates and Development. 91 The differences in rapidity are only reliable in comparison with makers own plates, as no general standard of speed is adopted as yet. The beginner had better try the most rapid series first, though in a good light, say at the seaside, the ordinary are quite quick enough. But to commence with it win be well if he has, in the way of sensitiveness, all the plate can give him. The plates are securely packed in card- board boxes each containing a dozen. The box must, of course, be kept intact until ready to open in the dark room. As regards the actual loading up of the camera, I can suggest but httle. It will depend upon the pattern selected. But whether the plates have to be put in sheaths or not, it win always be advisable to brush them over with the broad brush already referred to. The loading must, of course, be done as instructed by the makers of the particular camera. Now I must, like we have to do in melodrama, suppose a certain interval to elapse — and a very momentous interval too, viz: — the exposure of the plates. The next operation is that of development. When the plates are taken out of the camera after exposure, there is nothing to indicate the action of hght, or indeed of anything. Each plate appears precisely the same as when placed in the camera. The image is there all the same, "latent" though it be. The task is now to bring out that image by chemical reaction. Development. The camera is, of course, unloaded in the dark room, and development commences. One of the first things to remember is that, however safe the dark room light may be said to be, or however secure the worker may fancy it, there is nothing to be gained by exposing the plate to it, whilst there may be much to be lost. Therefore the plate should be kept 92 The Hand Camera Manual. as long as possible either in the camera itself or in a box, and only produced at the last moment. As I have previously said, it will be better for the beginner to purchase the developing solutions ready prepared. Here I arrive at the difficulty of plates and developers. Although each maker may put forth his own special formula, it is nevertheless a fact — putting it broadly — that every developer vAll develop every plate. Therefore, in referring to the purchase of developing solutions, it would perhaps be wise to describe them as those most suitable to the particular brand of plate. This may be the exact formula of the maker, or one of the general developers which happens to suit. It is impossible to give advice upon this point, but, if in doubt play trumps and use the maker's formula exactly. If the beginner consults a rehable dealer also upon this matter, he wiU not in all probability go far wrong. If he consults a friend, he should take care that that friend's pet developer is suitable for the plates. The developer being mixed according to instructions the plate is placed in the developing tray film side up and the solution poured over it, the tray being rocked backwards and forwards so as to keep the solution moving over the plate. Gradually a faint image will appear which looks at first like a darkening of the plate. The first parts to appear wiU be the brightest parts of the subject, technically termed the high- lights. These will gradually grow blacker or denser, whilst the other parts not so strongly lighted will be also appearing slowly. The darkest parts of the picture, the shadows, will remain white or nearly so. If a landscape, the principal high light wiU be the sky, the medium parts being foliage and de- tails, and the clear part of the plate will represent the black objects and deep shadows. Over-exposure and under-exposure are terms which mean Plates and Development. 93 respectively, too long exposure of the plate and too hitle. To some extent these are controllable in development, especially if it be known beforehand, but to a lesser extent after it is found in the development. Practically the developer consists of three factors: 1— The Image builder or density producer 2 — The Accelerator 3 — The Bestrainer No. 1 requires No. 2 to set it in action, and No. 3 is a restraining or retarding action to give control. Now looking at these things practically, for a correctly exposed plate the proportions described in the formula wiU be correct. For over- exposure the addition of restrainer is needed, and for under- exposure more accelerator. Some amount of compensation can be thus made in the developer for incorrect exposure, even by a beginner, but he should in nowise rely upon it. Tears of experience, however, will give him considerable power in this direction. It is right to say that not so much can be done with under-exposure as with over-exposure. When to stop the development is difficult of description. The back of the plate should be looked at, and if the main featui'es of the image can be pretty clearly seen, that is a pretty safe guide. Another method of judging is by holding up the plate, fihn side towards the eye, against the hght. The high lights should be quite opaque and the whole image strongly defined. The probable time for development may be stated to be from 5 to 10 minutes, but this depends greatly on the particular developer used, and on the duration of the exposure. Under-exposure wiU. mean a negative in which the contrast is great, the opaque parts very black and the clear parts very transparent. Over-exposure gives a negative flat all over and not possessing sufficient contrast or vigour. The former will ■94 The Hand Camera Manual. ^ive an unpleasantly black and white print, whilst the latter will be too flat and dead. If the beginner is desirous of obtaining the correct density at the outset, he should consult a friend, show his results to the dealer, or, perhaps, best of aU, obtain a sample finished negative as a guide. But very little practice wiQ put him right as well. Fixing and Washing. When the plate is removed from the developer it should be Tuised in water. A white or mUky appearance wiU be more ■or less visible. This is the unacted-upon part of the silver bromide, which it is the purpose of the fixing solution to dissolve out. Up to this point no light but the correct yellow or ruby, must be allowed access to the plate. After immersion in the fixing solution, however, the plate may be inspected in "fuU daylight or gas-light, but until completely fixed should not be exposed long to the light. This state may be ascertained by again inspecting the back of the plate, upon which must be left none of the milky-white appearance. The plate next needs careful washing, as hyposulphite of «oda is a deadly enemy when in the wrong place. It must be entirely ehminated from the negative, or a chemical action wiU take place later on that wiU eventually ruin it. The best plan is undoubtedly a direct flow of water upon the plate, the latter not being in any receptacle. Ten minutes of this sort of washing is worth hours of soaking in dishes and changings of water. If, however, this cannot be done, the plate should be placed in a tray and the water changed about 40 times, the plate soaking a minute or two between each change. In the case of several negatives at a time, a washing trough as described earher wiU be a great boon. About two hours in this will sufBce. Plates and Development. 95 A word of warning here about the fixing solution. It is a dangerous chemical in all photographic operations, and must be kept strictly to itself. A mere trace of it in any of the dishes wiU cause trouble. The fixing tray should never be used for any other purpose, the fingers must be carefully washed before touching plates or developing solutions. Begiimers should treat h3fposulphite of soda with respect and keep it at its distance. Drying and Varnishing. When washed the plates are stood up to dry on a shelf, or pre- ferably in the draining-rack. They must not be dried by any strong heat, wet gelatine being very quickly affected If placed, however, on the mantelpiece over a moderate fire, or in a warm room (but not too near the fire) they will probably dry in 3 or 4 hours. A strong draught is also a capital method. If placed in a cool place without draught they will take 8 hours or longer. When absolutely dry the negative should be varnished. The varnish is poured evenly over the plate, the surplus being returned to the bottle by the corner of the plate, which is then moved about in front of a fire. This operation requires a little practice, and at first can be dispensed with altogether. The object of it is to prevent the action of damp upon the film, which will produce stains upon the negative. Faults, Failures and Remedies. Fog. This is a veiling over of the image upon the plate, and may be caused by 1— Light. 2 — Development. Should the plate have been exposed in a sheath or dark 96 The Hand Camera Manual. slide, the part protected ^iy the rebate of the slide or turned over part of the sheath from the light, should be clear in the negative. If it is not so, then the plate has not been fogged in the camera but in the dark room, either when loading the camera or in development. The yellow or ruby light used is probably at fault, or it may be the entrance of diffused white Hght. The result is practically a slight exposure of the whole plate without the control of the lens, thereby producing a general grey fog or veil over the plate. If the plate shows the protected edges clear, the fault may have been caused by diffused hght in the camera, great over-exposure, or too much accelerator in the development. Each developer has its Umits in the use of additional accelerator, to exceed which means certain fog. Streaks or Opaque Marks. These are most usually due to the entrance of light into the plate receptacle. It may be caused in the dark room, but is unlikely, owing to the diffu- sion of Hght, even at the distance of a foot. Green or Red Pog. This is a green colour seen upon the negative by reflected Kght, and if it be a bad case, the transparent parts will have a red tinge seen upon looking through the negative. It is generally caused by forciug the plate with ammonia as the accelerator. Stains Round Edges. If the plates have a sort of metallic stain all round the edges, it is due to bad storage, gas fumes, or damp. It may also be due to the plates being too old. Transparent Spots. These, if of large size, are probably due to air bells upon the plate in development. Eemedy :— pass over the plate whilst in the solution a camel's hair brush once or twice. If very minute they are probably what are known as pinholes. Careful dusting of the plate before putting in the camera and before immersion in the developer will remedy this generally. Occasionally, however, it is due to the making of Plates and Development. 97 the plate. If actually present in a negative they may be filled up with an opaque colour by means of a fine paint brush. If, however, very small, they are best left alone. Irregular Density and perhaps definite markings upon the plate are due to non-rocking of the tray, or not covering the plate properly. CHAPTER XI. PRINTING AND MOUNTING. In do branch of photography does greater choice lie, than in the department of printing. There are not only numerous processes which ate either worked in quite a different way, or give very different results though manipulated similarly. Printing Processes. They may roughly be divided into two divisions: 1 — Developed Papers. 2 — Print-out Papers. In the former (with one exception) the process is much the same as the treatment of plates. No image is visible upon the paper, and it is developed out the same. In the latter the fuU image prints out and may be watched all the time. The advantages of developed papers are that artificial light may be used for the exposures, but this, on the other hand, requires careful timing of exposure, &e. > Moreover the operations have to be performed in the dark room. Print-out papers allow the print to be examined from time to time, and the correct depth of printing gauged by actual vision. They cannot, however, be printed except in good dayhght. There is one paper a cross between the two, which gives a Printing and Mounting. 99 faint image, enough to judge the depth ot the pnnting, but is yet developed afterwards. The principal and more generally used papers are the fol- lowing: — Developed. Bromide. Platinotype. Print-out. ii Gelatine-Chloride. SUver Albuminized. To the beginner I am going to recommend the Gelatine- Chloride on account of its easy manipulation and the range of tone and finish obtainable. The other papers can easily be tackled later on. Printing. As soon as the negative is bone dry— there must be no mistake about this, or there will be a sudden death in the negative world — it is placed in the printing frame film side up, a piece of the paper placed down film side upon the nega- tive, the back of the frame inserted, and the whole placed in strong daylight. By opening one half of the frame at a time, the printing can be watched, but care must be taken to avoid moving the paper. As soon as done, the paper (now termed a print) is removed, and another piece can be inserted. From one negative any reasonable number of prints may be obtained. K the negative be properly varnished no chemical effect wOl result from the printing, though if it came to thousands of copies some amount of wear and tear would perhaps ensue. When removed from the frame the print must be stored in a book or box to keep it from the light. Print-out papers may, however, be freely examined in any artificial Kght, but in day- light they should be looked at as seldom on possible and even then in a weak Ught only. Most print-out papers require a little over printing in the frame to allow for subsequent reduction, but this depends to some extent upon the toning bath used. 100 The Hand Camera Manual. If the negative be thm or weak it wiU prove advantageous to print it slowly, i.e. in a weak light, or protected by tissue paper or ground glass If very dense,, full sunshine is advisable. Toning, Fixing, and Washing Prints. At the very outset here it is impossible to more than indicate the operations, as at the actual first stage different methods are adopted according to the make of paper, or to the toning bath. Chloride of gold in conjunction with other chemicals is the most generally used toning agent, and gives warm black, red-brown, and red tones. Platinum and Uranium are, however, also used, but these give sepia tones. The beginner wouW do well to carefully read and follow out the instructions sent with each packet of paper : certainly at the commencement he should do so. Just as I have recommended gelatino-chloride papers at the outset, so I do the use of the maker's toning formulae. When these are worked satisfactorily will be the time to consider other methods of printing altogether, or other methods of toning the same paper. A few particulars, however, may prove useful. There are two main principles adopted in which the operations differ. These are termed the combined bath and separate bath, and briefly, the operations may be. thus described. Combined Bath. Print immersed without washing. Toned and fixed at the same operation. Washed after fixing. Separate Baths. Prints washed. Toned. Rinsed. Fixed. Washed after fixing. The combined bath is certainly less work, and is adopted by many. It is, however, a little more tricky in its nature and is not so certain in result in a beginner's hands. Printing and Mounting. 101 The prints are toned (or toned and fixed) by immersion in the solution in the tray, which is kept in constant motion. The prints must not stick together in the tray but be constantly changing positions by means of the fingers. They then receive a shght rinse in water and go into the fixing bath, where they remain for about 15 to 20 minutes. After a thorough washing, (vide washing plates) they are passed through a bath of alum to harden the film, and lastly dried. Mounting and Finishing Prints. Gelatino-chloride prints may either be mounted as they emerge from the washing water, or a special surface given to the print before mounting. This is accomplished by squeegeeing the print down to a polished surface for a high glaze, or to a matt surface for a dead matt finish. In the ordinary way of mounting, the prints are taken out •of the water and individually placed upon a linen sheet, another sheet is placed on the top and the surplus water removed by rubbing the hand along over the top sheet. The prints are then gathered together in a neat pile and laid face downwards upon a piece of clean paper. The mounting medium is brushed over, the print placed upon the mount, and fcaUy it is rubbed down into close contract by the hand over a piece of blotting paper. If it is desired to dry the prints before mounting they must not be placed between blotting paper, but laid on a piece of glass, cloth, or paper, and left uncovered. The same, of course, applies if the prints are intended to be stored unmounted. For the special surfaces a squeegee is required. This consists •of a roller of indiarubber mounted with a wooden handle. A piece •of polished vulcanite, enamelled iron (ferrotype) plate, or plate glass for the highly glazed surface ; and fine ground glass or matt surface •celluloid film for the matt or dead surface, must also be obtained. 102 The Hand Camera Manual: These must be carefully cleaned in warm water, polished with a soft sUk handkerchief or wash-leather, and when dry dusted over with French Chalk by means of a piece of cotton wool. When this is again dusted off, the print is placed film down whilst wet upon either surface, a piece of blotting paper placed over it, and the squeegee roUed over to expel all the air and moisture between the fihn and the surface. If left in a warm dry place, the prints wUl strip off in a few hours with a very fine surface. For unmounted prints some exceedingly useful albums have lately been introduced. The prints are merely slipped in, in a similar way to the ordinary portrait albums, and a very much more finished appearance is given to them thereby. Should there be any little white specks upon the print, a brush and a little water colour to match the tint of the paper or tone of the print is necessary. For instance, -a hole in a negative is first blocked out by an opaque colour, which may. in some cases appear on the print as a white speck. If the negative was left alone the speck or mark would be black and ; not removable in any way. CHAPTER Xn. ENLARGEMENTS AND LANTERN SLIDES. These two branches of photography will eventually ensnare the amateur. It is exceedingly tempting to have a fine enlargement of some pet shot, indeed, with some subjects, improvement in artistic effect will result. Sooner or later the worker will sigh for something larger than the hmited size of a hand-camera plate, and yet he need not go in for a larger camera, as successful negatives can be enlarged up to 24 X 20 and even larger. As this is a beginner's manual, I shotild recommend him to patronize at first one of the regular enlarging firms. Later on he can tackle the matter himself. The prices charged are approximately as follows: — s. d. From snap shot to 15 X 12 inches 4—0 18 X 15 , 5-6 24 X 20 , 8-0 The above prices include mounting and plain spotting, but for any artist's work upon the print there are, of course, extra charges. One of the most attractive uses to which hand-camera shots can be put, is that of making lantern slides. By this means 103 104 The Hand Camera Manual. we can interest our friends, and show them the results of our last holiday trip. From fairly sharp negatives excellent slides can be easily produced, even by the beginner. There are two distinct methods of production, one by reduction in the camera and the other by what is termed contact printing. As the former is used principally for the larger size negatives, I need only describe the latter. Special lantern plates are required. The negative is placed in an ordinary printing frame, and in the dark room the lantern plate is put film to film with the negative and the back inserted. Exposure to artificial hght is then made and the plate developed and finished just the same as a negative. The result is, of course, a positive print on glass. When dry, nnnnn a suitable mask is selected, a covering or protecting piece of glass placed over it, and the two bound together by sUps of paper which are sold ready gummed for the purpose. CHAPTER Xni. VARIOUS NOTES, HINTS, &c. Photographic Societies. I should strongly recommend the hdginner to join a photographic society, as by conversation at meetings, and friendly intercourse, he will be much aided in the earlier stages especially. Photographic Literatiire. There are a number of excellent periodicals, some of which would also be of assistance. Those pubUshed in England are as follows: — Weekly. The British Journal of Photography 2d. The Photographic News 2d. The Amateur Photographer 2d. Photography \d. Monthly. The Practical Photographer Id. The Photographic Review of Reviews Qd. The Junior Photographer 2d. The Photogram. 3d. For the beginner " The Amateur Photographer^ , ' The Junior Photographer " and ' Photography " wiU probably prove the most useful. Each of these papers devotes considerable at- tention to the requirements of novices in "Answers to Cor- respondents", "Questions and Answers", &c. Of the others the ' Photographic Review of Reviews " deals largely with hand- camera work with illustrations of shots. 105 106 The Hand Camera Manual. Photographic Exhibitions are constantly taking place all over the country, and at one of these the beginner would see the kind of work that others can do, and the visit would prove an incentive towards improvement, hoth technically and artistically. Changing Plates. Most hand-cfcmeras are arranged for 12 vehtiiitiiii plates and a very con- / venient method of replac- ing the stock in the day time when travelling, is to use one of the various neat changing hags, purchasable at any dealers, of which the •^^^ illustration is a sample. Some can also be used for development, if very urgent. At night, chang- ing can easily be accom- plished by means of a travelling lamp, some patterns of which fold quite flat and are very inexpensive. The illustration shows one of these, which burns a large-sized night-light. Foreign Travel. The Custom House officers generally pass Various Notes, Hints, <&c. 107 hand-cameras very readily, and also plates in boxes. But it is generally well to label them. The following are sample labels : — ENGLISH. Sensitive photographic plates, which will be quite spoilt if opened in the light. Only to be opened in a totally dark room or by a red hght. FRENCH. Plaques photographiques sensibles. Tout detruites par I'exposition a la lumiere. Prendre garde de n'ouvrir la boite que dans une chambre parfaitement obscure. GERMAN. Photographische Trockenplatten. Sehr lichtempfindlich. Werden ganz verdorben, wenn dem Lichte ausgesetzt. Miissen nur in absolut dunkelm Zimmer oder bei rothem Lichte geoffnet werden. SPANISH. Las placas fotograficas sensitivas que se inutihzan si se las expone al abrirlas, a la luz del dia, 30 pueder abrir sin inconvenientes en una habitacion enteramente oscura Uuminada por luz roja. ITALIAN. Piastre fotografiche sensitive che si simperanno affatto se esposte alia luce del giorno. Da aprirsi solo in una stanza affatto buja o dove regni una luce rossa. 108 The Hand Camera Mcmucd. NORWEGIAN. FSlsomme fotografiske Plader, som fuldstandig fordoerves ved at udsottes for Lyset. Bo'r knn aabnes i et aldeles morkt Eum eller ved rodt Lys. SWEDISH. Sjuskaushga fotografiska platar, blivfa forstOrda om de uttsattas for Ijus. Pas ■ derfore ej Oppuas utom i ett absolut mOrkt rum. Various Instruction Books. As soon as the beginner masters the earlier processes, there are a variety of general photographic instruction books, some of 'which are as follows: — Artistic Work. Studies in Photography. Andrews. Half Holidays -with the Camera. Alfieri. Short Chapters on Art Photography. Robinson. Dark Room and Development. Developers, their use and abuse. The Dark Eoom. Development. Enlargements. Practical Enlarging. Bromide Enlarging. Bromide Printing. Enlarging. Penlake. MassS. Clark. Wheeler. Hodges. Dresser. Dr. Just. Variotts Notes, Joints, &c. 109 General. Photography in a Nutshell. Photography for All. Elementary Photography. First Principles of Photography. Practical Photographers First Handbook. Hand Camera Work. The Hand Camera and How to Use it. Snapshot Photography. Lantern Slides- Lantern Slide Manual. Lantern Slides and How to Make Them. Lantern Slides. The Kernel. Harrison. Hodges. Leaper. Welford. Harding. Hodges. Dresser. Pike. Lenses. Photographic Lenses. Optics of Photography. Printing. Hodges. Baylor. Art and Practice of SUver Printing. Bobinson <& Alney. Gelatino-Chloride of Silver Printing-out Process. Woodbury. Platinum Toning. Clark. Photographic Printer's Assistant. Heighway. Bromide Paper. Just. Various. Evening work for Amateurs. Photographic Pastimes. Interior Photography. Hepworth. Schnams. Mills. 110 The Hand Camera Manual. Prices of Chemicals. There is not much variation in the market prices of the more generally used chemicals, so that a list -will prove of use. At the same time, of course, it cannot be completely relied upon. oz. lb. s. d. s. d. Acid. Citric 0--3 2-2 Hydrochloric 0-1 0-6 PyrogalUc 1-0 — Sulphuric 0-1 0-6 Alum. Powdered — 0-2 Ammonia Kq. -880 0-1 0-7 Bromide 4 3-0 Borax. Powdered 0-1 0-8 French Chalk 0-1 0-9 Gold Chloride Vio per 15 grain tube Hydrolrinone 1-0 — Mercury-Bi-chloride 0-4 4-0 Potash. Carbonate 0-1 0-9 Potassium . Bromide 0-3 2-8 Soda. Acetate 0-1 0-7 Bicarbonate 0-1 0-4 Carbonate 0-1 0-6 Hyposulphite — 0-2 Phosphate 0-1 0-10 Sulphite 0-2 1-0 Competitions. It will prove of assistance to beginners if they send up Iheir work to, say, such papers as Photography, The Junior I'hotographer, or The Amateur Photographer for criticism. The Varmis Notes, Hints, dbc. Ill faults, technical and artistic, will readUy be pointed out. An- other good plan is to enter some of the competitions organized by these papers, or to show at one of the many photographic exhibitions held in various parts of the country. Trade Work. The whole object of this book is to give such instructions as will enable the beginner to do all his own work, and to that end I have recommended the use of plates as being easier to manipulate. I must, however, point out that some film camera makers make a speciality of doing all the work for the amateur — from development io the finished print — at very moderate charges. In this case all the beginner has to do is to make the exposures, the firm do the rest, and thus a film camera would be extremely convenient. The fact is only briefly referred to because it lies outside the province of the manual. Almost any part of the work will be undertaken by a dealer, the prices are not excessive, and much labour is thereby saved. Registration and Storage of Negatives. Some system whereby a negative can quickly be got at, will soon be found necessary. My own method is as follows : — 1 — Negative Eegister with continuous numbering, giving particulars of the negative, etc. 2 — Each negative numbered from the register in one of the corners. 3— The negatives stored in grooved boxes of 50 or 100. These boxes are not expensive and can readily be obtained. They are more accessible than paper bags or cardboard boxes, and for the smaller sizes used in the hand-camera do not take up much room. 112 The Band Camera Manual. Conclusion. The Hand-Camera is no toy when properly used. It is capable of the very best photographic resulta, and is amenable to almost any use or treatment. At the same time, to succeed with a hand-camera needs constant practice and earnest study. If treated as a toy, a thing to take out for a lark, or once every six months, the results will be practically nQ. Until some amount of mastery be obtained, constant change of apparatus is simply folly. The same thing applies to plates, developers, and indeed any of the photographic processes. The beginner must avoid experiment until experience can render aid. WALTEE D. WELFORD. London, 1895. Catalogue of Jt^racncal Handbooks Published by L. Upcott Gill, lyo, Strand, London, W.C. ANGLEK, BOOK OF THE AI.L-BOUND. A ComprehensiTe Treatise on Angling in both Fresh and Salt Water. In Four Divisions, as named below. By John Bickerdtke. "With over 220 Engravings In cloth, price 5s. 6d., by post 6s. (A few copies of a IjAbge Paper Edition, bound in Boxburghe, price 25s.) Angfliug' for Coarse Fisb.. Bottom Fishing, according to the Methods in use on the Thames, Trent,' Norfolk Broads, and elsewhere. Illustrated. In paper, price Is., by post Is. 2d. Angling for Fibe. The most Approved Methods of Fishing for Pike or Jack. Profusely Illustrated. In paper, price Is., by post Is. 2d. ; cloth, 2s. (uncut), by post 2s. Sd. Angling' for Game Fisli. The Various Methods of Fishing for Salmon; Moorland, Chalk-stream, and Thames Trout; Grayling and Char, Well Ulustrated. In paper, price Is. 6d., by post Is, 9d. Angling in Salt Water. Sea Fishing with Bod and Line, from the Shore, Piers, Jetties, Bocks, and from Boats ; together with Some Account of Hand-Lining. Over 50 Engravings. Jii paper, price Is., by post Is. 2d. ; cloth, 2s. {wncut), by post 2s. Sd. AQUAKIA, BOOK OF. A Practical Guide to the Construction, Arrangement, and Management of Fresh-water and Marine Aquaria ; containing Full Information as to the Plants, Weeds, Fish, ' Molluscs, Insects, &c., How and Where to Obtain Them, and How to Keep Them in Health. Illustrated. By Eev. Gresort C. Bateman, A.K.C., and Eesinald A. E. Bennett, B.A. In cloth gilt, price 5s. 6d., by post 5s. lOd. AQUARIA, FRESHWATER : Their Construction, Arrangement, Stocking, and Management. Fully Illustrated. By Eev. G. C. Bate- MAN, A.E.C. In cloth gilt, price 3s. Gd., by post 3s. lOd. AQ'D'ARIA, MARINE : Their Construction, Arrangement, and Manage- ment. Fully Illustrated. By E. A. E. Bennett, B.A. In cloth gilt, price 2s. Gd., by post 2s. 9d. AUSTRALIA, SHALL I TRT? A Guide to the Australian Colonies for the Emigrant Settler and Business Man. With two Illustrations. By George Laoon James. In cloth giU, price 3s. 6d., by post 3s. 10(2. AUTOGRAPH COLLECTING : A Practical Manual for Amateurs and Historical Students, containing ample information on the Selec- tion and Arrangement of Autographs, the Detection of Forged Specimens, &c., &e., to which are added numerous Facsimiles for Study and Eeference, and an extensive Valuation Table of Auto- graphs worth Collecting. By Hbnrt T. Scott, M.D., L.E.C.P., Ac, Eector of Swettenham, Cheshire. In leatherette gilt, price 7s. Gd., by post Is. lOd. BEES AND REE-KEEFING: Scientific and Practical. By F. B. Cheshire, F.L.S., F.E.M.S., Lecturer on Apiculture at South Kensington. In two vols., cloth gilt, price 16s., by post 16s. 8d. 168 C 10/95 Published by L. Upcott Gill, Vol. I., Scientific. A complete Treatise on the Anatomy and Physiology of the Hive Bee. In cloth gilt, price Is. 6(J., by post 7s. lOd. Vol. II., Practical management of Bees. An Exhaustive Treatise on Advanced Bee Culture. In cloth gilt, price 88. 6d., hy post 9s. BEE-KEEPING, BOOK OF. A very practical and Complete Mannal on the Proper Management of Bees, especially written for Beginners and Amateurs who have but a few Hives. Fully Dlnstrated. By W. B. Websteb, First-class Expert, B.B.K.A. In paper, price Is., hy post Is. 2d. ; cloth. Is. Gd., by post Is. 8d. BEGONIA CULTURE, for Amateurs and Professionals. Containing Full Directions for the Successful Cultivation of the Begonia, under Glass and in the Open Air. Illustrated. By B. C. Eavdnsceoft. In paper, price Is., by post Is. 2d. BENT IRON WORK : A Practical Mannal of Instruction for Amateurs in the Art and Craft of Making and Ornamenting Light Articles in imitation of the beautiful Mediaeval and Italian Wrought Iron Work. By F. J. Ebskine. Illustrated. In paper, price Is., by post Is. 2d. BOAT BUILDING AND SAILING, PRACTICAL. Containing FuU Instructions for Designing and Building Punts, Skiffs, Canoes, Sailing Boats, &c. Particulars of the most suitable Sailing Boats and Yachts for Amateurs, and Instructions for their Proper Handling. Fully Illustrated with Designs and Working Diagrams. By Adbian Neison, C.E., Dixon Kemp, A.I.N.A., and G. Chbistopheb Davies. In one vol., cloth gilt, price 7s. 6d., by ppst Is. lOcJ. BOAT BUILDING POR AMATEURS, PRACTICAL. Contain- ing Full Instructions for Designing and Building Punts, Skiffs, Canoes, Sailing Boats, &o. Fully Illustrated with Working Diagrams. By Adeian Nbison, C.E. Second Edition, Eevised and Enlarged by Dixon Kemp, Author of "Tacht Designing," "A Manual of Yacht and Boat Sailing," &o. In cloth gilt, price 2s. &d., by post 2s. 9iu«4 hudM^ vkK MrlUU(ifluia]iiMulli.,taMbiE;%h|sHC -1p«n>.*UMnMiiuUM,Ti«plidiii. ' rBpcMiu. •uButH giuUiTi tfia ti» NG A CARD ^iford Magnesia "tbg ■«d]aftl PmtMBloa lor orai fiftr Tcmi tan vprand of thU pun lolatiaa h ttaa bwt reoud7 for ACISITT of ths arOKACS.' OXABTBTma. I OOTTT, Mid iaSADACHE, I IVDXQBSTZOS -•DU> TBBOUGaODT TBS WOniA DON-T FOKOET- Tlut Worm* uid all VennTn «n ktjn ant of ritiiii uu |w umplv pl»4liw In 1K4 pfl^ Kondndigf thoii"".<* -— "■ ■■•* •"* »fc— in~Es™mM« piilit— a. Pi BOLD K SDAL. luUrutloDBl HMltb Exblbltloo. Benger's Food. Tor INFANTS, CHIU)BEN, INVALIDS, and THE AGED. BotsinaJ oben all otbgr toodi kr« msotod. lint mt M. I« b^ uiil U/-> of CbDmUU. Sa Sft. OLP BKOAn KTRRICT. Lfll'lHII', 8.C. AccouDU opooad vlthiumiol £1 and Dpmida. 4 . 1 . .., J __ a,pcBlu. r»D«>«blt « oF currvnl wfluntA Chp<|unraD ba dnvn for hhhi nnilirfl. iuiur«4»tll fuii'l* in /rt-ilaw milHihin «nirmri Kft Wm. divcouDla. oi usvrdmfUhLlaiwL T '' ..i_i~_ liniipectu tna. _ ... .^ T MMitT. MatiaB«''BTVimw. liki, lliHmiT l.1>i iipwitiii^mllrH: •pUndld iIiru)w,tJl|>rl£lu^n.[»tllH:^Htlk|H,lbr ■ HOW TO MAKE A CAMERA, A HAND CAMERA, A LANTERN, A TBIPOD. *"nia Cyclopedia or Pbata-BfasGworL" Pinu. SCO luun«iTinR& Pun riMBp axm CAMBSA CO.. uniu^ rWXTB SUFFLBUEirxs.] 170, STRAND LONDON, W C ^ ^'b^uA HRTieLES OF THE MOST Practical Character ON EVERY. CONCEIVABLE SUBJECT ARE GIVEN IN Z\)C iSycbange anb ^att (Established 27 Years). WANY HIGHLY ILLUSTRATED EXTRA SUPPLEMENTS ON SPECIAL SUBJECTS ARE GIVEN GRATIS. fy^mation on all Subjects is freely given to Readers by Eminent Experts. THE MOST USEFUL PAPER IN LONDON. GET A COPY AND SEE. ^rice 2cl., at all Newsagents and Railway Bookstalls. Ojices: 170, Strand, London, W.C. SPRATTS PATENT DOG CAKES. ■^^■■-"■■■■^ Famphlet on CANINE DISBASBS GRATIS, SPRATTS PATENT LIMITED, BERMONDSEY/ pkVVVVVMlvVVVVWVVVVVWVV\'V -^JXS/* J^m may possibly have heard that the DALLMEYER LENSES enjoy a reputation unrivalled in the Photographic World. BUT YOU may not have yet heard that the DALLMEYER HAND-CAMERA merits equal eulogies, ^\ ^%M I ^M ^f W.MW.M may be interested in having its chief points particularised. 1.— It has a DALLMBYBE E.E. Lens. 2: — It has an entirely novel type of dark slide, opening book -form. which must be seen to be appreciated. Constructed of wood and sheet steel, the loaded slides take up hardly more room than the plates themselves. 3. — It has a Eoller-blind Shutter. — Time or Instantaneous. 4. — It is provided with a focussing scale and screen, and may be used with equal facility in the hand or on a tripod. 5. — It has a movable front and a special form of reversible (bright view) finder. 6. — It is simple> There is an entire absence of complicated mechanism. 7. — It is compact. The Camera measures 7 by 4^ by 5f inches. Projections : focussing screw and finder fittings. 8. — It is light. Weight, with sis double slides and sling case : 5 lbs. 9. — It is well -constructed, being carefully made of seasoned material. 10. — It is reliable. There is no dust-gathering magazine to suddenly go wrong and spoil a whole day's work. 11.— It is practical. Not a plaything for aimless button-pushers, but a serious instrument for earnest workers. 12. — It is reasonable in price, consistent with high -class workmanship and finish. From £#/ 5s« Oils complete. Cash Disct. 5 %. Illustrated on page 51. SEND POST CARD FOR PULL PARTICULARS. J. H. DALLMEYER, Ltd., u^^^^) 28, Newman St., LONDON, W. !T FIXES THE SPOT! m IT FIXES THE WHAT? 'I| IT FIXES THE SPOT. THE "ADAMS" Bpillia-nt Yle^w JPinclei?. Patented in all Leading Countrietf. TNSIST upon having the " ADAMS." It is ^ tlie ONLY Fintler that shows you the same I amount of picture as appears upon the plate, all ' others are UT TEBLY useless. It shows a RE.Vl. Imaf^e. All our own Cameras are fittert with it, liut whatever Camera vou buy, order- an "ADAMS" iMndertobe atted. " V " Pattern shows botli horizontal and ver- tico.t pictures. •* Z " Pattern shows one only, and it is necessary to state which view is re- quired when ordering. Any of the sizes will do for any sized Camera, the difference being in amount of picture seen. ■ • Y " Pattern Prices are complete with fittings. HandHomely made in Urastt and Alumlnitim. PATTERNS. 8isse. Outside Measarement. Size of view seen. Y Z No. 1 .. If by 1{ by 1 J by \i lOa. 6d. 7s. ad. each. „ 2 . . 8 „ IJ „ IJ it „ i 13s. 6d. I2s. Od. ,, In Alumininm 15s. 6d. 14a. Od. „ No. 5 .. ajbyljbyls U by JJ 17s. 6d. 15s. Od. „ In Aluminium 20.'<. Od. 17s. 3d. POSTAGE TBREEPEXCB. adams~T"co7I'TaW'"camerai The Finest the World Produeea, £ ^ j No. l.—"IDEAI," ("Ideal" B.E. Lens) .. 5 5 6 „ a— „ (VVrayLens) 8 10 ., 2a.— „ (Doerz Lens, Aluminium) 10 10 ;, 3.— „ (Twin Lens, Wray) 12 12 • VESTA " (Wray Lens) 8 10 (Goerz Lens) 10 10 "ADAMS," Opiate (Boss Lens) 15 IS „ i.plate (Goerz Lens) 16 16 „ J-pbte (iitted with caslomei's Lens) 12 12 „ IS by 4 plate (Ross Lens) .. .. 18 13 „ S by 4 plate (Uoerz Lens) 21 „ 5 by 4 plate (fitted with customer's]! Lens) 15 15 „ i -plate (Ros» Lens) 23 „ ^-plate (Goerz I,ens) 25 „ i -plate (fitted with customer's Lens) 19 10 „ Stereoscopic (Boss Lenses) 2S00 ,, Stereoscopic (Bttted with customer's Lenses) .. .. 21 Any Lent can be Jitted to the "ADAMS" Pattern, The Larqest Mandfactdrers of FIRST-CLASS HAND CAMERAS IN THE WORLD, FJHOX ALL DEALERS OR PER RETURN OF POST FROM iMMS&Co 51 ALDERSaATE Sif .C 2G;CH ARING 'cross R