SPT - January/February 1971

Official bi-monthly journal of the Society of Photo-Technologists, Volume 2, Issue 1 (January/February 1971). This publication is an essential reference for professional camera repair technicians and equipment specialists seeking authoritative guidance on diagnostic methodology and advanced testing procedures. The issue opens with President James Todd Amos's "Thinking Things Through," a foundational article establishing the intellectual framework for competent camera repair work. Amos articulates two cornerstone principles: repair as an intellectual discipline requiring systematic problem-solving, and the critical importance of understanding root causes before physical intervention on delicate mechanisms. Through practical examples, the article demonstrates how experienced technicians approach unfamiliar camera designs—beginning with thorough customer interview and visual inspection to diagnose the actual complaint, only then proceeding to disassembly when necessary. A major technical contribution from Samuel L. Love, society founder and former president, addresses "Comparascope Testing of Unique Focal Plane Shutters," a specialized treatment of focal plane shutter speed measurement in large-format and aerial cameras where conventional test methods fall short. The article explains how comparascope and motion analyzer equipment, coupled with controlled light sources, solves measurement challenges when standard aperture positioning proves impractical. The journal also includes organizational officer listings, a directory of sustaining members representing leading camera manufacturers and precision testing instrument suppliers, and subscription information for both members and non-member subscribers.