Professor Neil Fox (Humber) and a pre-1900 Scovill and Adams Studio Camera he restored
Toronto. Bill Belier’s column “A Treasure From My Collection” in issue 26-2 addresses Neil Fox of Humber College and his hobby of restoring the massive studio cameras of the past. Also experienced in many aspects colour film photography, Neil spoke at our February 1994 meeting on old colour processes.
Bill’s article begins, “Neil Fox’s passion for the art of photography and all things photographic began as a high school student in Toronto’s North York district. Already involved as a hobbyist, it appears he had pre-determined that he would pursue a career in photography.
“He began canvassing studios in his area seeking part-time and summer employment… any type of employment as long as it was photographic and he was given an opportunity to gain experience. His sincere approach must have been convincing and he instilled such confidence in his employer that he was given wedding assignments to shoot… he was sixteen years old.
“Upon graduating from high school he enrolled in the general photographic course at the Ryerson Institute of Technology (now Ryerson Polytechnical University [year 2000 – and more recently TMU when Edgar Ryerson fell from grace]) and continued working part time assignments, gaining valuable experience in graphic arts and darkroom techniques.
“Upon leaving Ryerson he was offered a position with one of the large Toronto commercial studios, Photo Engravers Ltd., but chose to open his own business in 1971 in Scarborough’s Guildwood – a decision he never regretted.” …
Members saw more photos and read the rest of Neil’s story in the issue 26-2 pdf file on the free members-only DVD/thumb drive. Check out “Membership” above and to the right for information on joining. More questions? Email member@phsc.ca.
