a novel adjustable stand allows a good likeness to be taken on the slow media of the day
Toronto. For a large part of photographic history, the media was so abysmally slow a tripod was necessary plus a means to steady subjects. To this end, Charlie Kruger offered a light, handy support adjustable for a realistic pose.
One was located by Dr Robert Wilson who wrote an article for issue 23-1 back in 1997. The article is in his “Pages from the Past Series” column and begins, “Portrait photographers in the mid nineteenth century needed a headrest in their studio to ensure that the sitter would be able to remain still for the duration of the exposure. Most of these headrests were fairly heavy devises, with a large cast iron base often seen on the floor behind portraits of men; women’s long skirts usually covered any sign of the headrest.
“However, the 15 January 1869 issue of Humphrey’s Journal (Volume XX, No 17, pages 261-263) had a report of this light weight stand patented by Mr Charles E. Kruger:
“It is a fact, perhaps too little known among the public, that as much as photography has of late been benefited by the aid of science, it requires, nevertheless, a great deal more care and practice than one would think off (sic). This we state particularly in regard to the right placing and the securing of the proper position of the person, of whom a photograph is to be taken.
“Not only is the part of the operation generally attended by a great loss of time, but it is also the source of failures which would undoubtedly not occur, if use was made of a proper apparatus, which in being placed behind the person, would allow a suitable hold and support of the different parts of the body, no matter what position they assume.” …
Members are able to read the rest of Bob’s article, and more by opening the issue 23-1 pdf file on the free members only DVD (or as of this month, thumb drive). To join see MEMBERSHIP above or at right. Questions, Email Lilianne at member@phsc.ca.
Join us at our 2025 events (listed under PHSC EVENTS at right) and see what you can find for your collection. First up is the May 4th Auction followed by the PHSC Spring fair, trunk sale, and fall events.
