SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
FORMED 1908
The following is from the ART GALLERY OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA, website.
The Semaphore Photographic Society appears to have been formed in 1908, as the 8th annual report was presented in July 1916, and the report of a meeting held at the residence of Captain Creer in August 1912 stated: "The society, since its formation some four years ago, has been doing quiet work amongst amateur photographers of the district, and the collection of between 60 and 70 framed pictures shown at the meeting evidenced considerable skill in the art".
The Society was assisted by members of the Adelaide Camera Club who gave talks and instruction in the technical aspects of photography. One of the members, Mr R. Fraser, "an enthusiastic advocate of pictorial methods", gave a "clear and concise" lecture on Composition in February 1913 which, it was said, "will undoubtedly have the desired effect of setting the members thinking and help them to compose in a more efficient manner".
Photographic material supplier S.P. Bond (q.v.) also entertained the members with lantern slide demonstrations and gave technical assistance. In November 1913 he demonstrated the complicated Paget color process.
In 1916 the committee decided that, "owing to the depressing influence of the war", the Society would not hold an exhibition that year. On a more cheerful note, however, it was reported that "a local branch of the Y.M.C.A. Snapshots-From-Home League was formed under the auspices of the Society". The Society was still operating in 1923 with Mr R. Fraser as President.
Wednesday 12th August 1908 Page 2 - The Register (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The Semaphore Photographic Society was recently formed at Semaphore, and the inaugural meeting was held at Captain Creer's residence, Esplanade. The attendance was encouraging, and much enthusiasm was displayed. Mr. A.G. Rendall was elected President, Mr. C.W. Mart Hon.Secretary and Hon. Treasurer, and Mr. George Anderson Librarian. These gentlemen will form the executive committee, together with Captain Creer, Messrs. R. Fraser and J. Smith. Messrs. E.V. Gryst and H. S. Muir were appointed Auditors. A code of rules for the governing of the society was agreed to. Ladies and gentlemen are eligible for membership.
By the courtesy of Mr. H.H. Wight, of Messrs. Baker & Rouse, a flashlight photograph of the foundation members was taken.
Friday 25th June 1909 Page 5 - Kapunda Herald (South Australia)
The meeting of the Kapunda Photographic Club on Tuesday evening was well attended. Mr. B.R. Banyer (President) presided. The pictures in the competition between the Adelaide Camera Club and Wallaroo Camera Clubs were on view. The adjudicators are the President and Messrs. Thomas Warner (secretary) and A. Berrett. It was reported that the photographic section of the Kapunda Show prize-list had been revised and members were urged to compete. Mr. Berrett stated that recently he had an opportunity of attending a meeting of the Semaphore Camera Club, where he was cordially welcomed as a member of the Kapunda Photographic Club. A letter was received from Mr. J. Kauffmann, of Adelaide, re the prints in the club's landscape competition. The action of the Hon.Secretary in, allowing the prints to be forwarded to Dr. Pooler, of Stirling, for inspection was approved. The work of the evening was the carbon process, demonstrated by Mr. R.S. Hawke. Mr. Hawke explained the single transfer process and worked with several colors of pigment and with varying strengths of sensitization.
23rd September 1909 Page 496 - Volume 16 No. 9 - Australasian photo-review
22nd October 1909 Page 562 - Volume 16 No. 10 - Australasian photo-review
22nd November 1909 Page 622 - Volume 16 No. 11 - Australasian photo-review
22nd December 1909 Page 681 - Volume 16 No. 12 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Meets first Monday at Society's Room, Esplanade.
HON.SECRETARY
C.W. Mart
Monday 1st May 1911 Page 2 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The monthly meeting of the Semaphore Photographic Society is held, Mail Station, Semaphore, first Monday each month. Visitors welcome.
Subscription: Ladies, 2/6; Gentlemen, 5/ per annum.
CHARLES W. MART
Hon.Secretary.
c/o Dalgety Port.
Tuesday 6th August 1912
Page 8 - The Register (Adelaide, South Australia)
Page 11 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
22nd August 1912
Page 458 - Vol. 19 No. 8 The Australasian Photographic Review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
INAUGURAL EXHIBITION
The inaugural exhibition of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held at the residence of Captain T. Creer, Esplanade, Semaphore, on Monday evening. Formed four years ago, the society has been doing a quiet work among amateur photographers of the district, and although comparatively, small in numbers, the collection of between 60 and 70 framed pictures shown on Monday evening evidenced considerable skill in the art. Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, there was an encouraging attendance.
Among those present were several members of the Adelaide Camera Club. Mr. R. Fraser, who is widely known in the State as a photographer, was represented by some particularly worthy landscapes and seascapes, general work, and copies. The best were "Shadows Dark and Sunlight Sheen", "A Grey Dawn" (on carbon), "Evening Glory", and "Where Reeds and Rushes Grow" (self-toning). The same artist also showed several excellent portraiture studies.
There were some strikingly effective enlargements, among them being two by Mr. H. Turner, entitled "Reflections" and "The Devil's Bridge Langhorne's Creek"; three by Mr. E. Clements, of the Botanic Garden and Paradise; "Back road, Willunga" (in sepia tone) and "The White Hut", by Mr. C.W. Mart; a fine picture of the riverside at Port Pirie, and a double picture, "The Overseer", by Captain Creer; several by Mr. H.A. Thomas of English and Continental scenery, taken with a hand camera; one by Mr. H. Herswill, and others of Mount Lofty Ranges and Waterfall Gully by Mr. A. Jones. Other exhibitors worthy of mention were Mr. H.H. Wight who was represented by studies of "The Semaphore Anchorage" and "Evening"; Mr. A. Wallace, who hung portrait studies and two sets of postcards; Mr. J. Smith, several land and seascapes and copies, of which "Sanddunes" (on self-toning paper) was perhaps the most admired.
Mr. J. Small (President), and Mr. C.W. Mart (Hon.Secretary) are to be congratulated upon the success of their initial efforts, and should be encouraged to extend the exhibition next year.
22nd February 1913 Page 98 - Volume 20 No. 2 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Since forwarding the last report of this society to your journal we have occupied the last few meetings in an educational and pleasurable manner, principally among these, “Lantern Slide Making”, by Mr. T.B. Ragless, who is an earnest worker in this branch of the art. The following meeting we had the pleasure of a “Lantern Evening”, given by an enthusiastic lanternist, Mr. J.T. Cain, who projected a set of slides depicting some of the beauty spots of Cornwall, England.
The meeting held on February 3rd was occupied by Mr. R.Fraser, who is an enthusiastic advocate of pictorial methods. The lecture was entitled "The Ideal in Composition”, and comprised a number of diagrams sketched to represent the correct and the incorrect manner in the composition of picture making. The lecturer explained the diagrams as they were exhibited in a clear and concise manner, which proved interesting, and will undoubtedly have the desired effect of setting the members thinking and help them to compose pictures in a more efficient manner. The members appreciated the lecturer’s effort.
The next meeting will be held on 3rd March, and will be occupied with a demonstration of Bromide Printing and Development, exposed from negatives taken with an Adon Telephoto Lens at the various extensions and magnifications. All visitors and resident workers are cordially invited.
22nd May 1913 Page 256 - Volume 20 No. 5 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
At the usual monthly meeting on the 7th April a large attendance of members and visitors were entertained by Mr. S.P. Bond, who gave a lantern demonstration on Coleridge’s well-known poem, “The Ancient Mariner”.
The slides, 38 in number, were illustrated from steel engravings drawn by Gustave Dore, and as these were thrown on the screen the poem was read by Mr. Bond, and a very enjoyable evening was spent.
Those present much appreciated Mr. Bond's kindness, and many complimented him on the technical excellence of the slides exhibited.
After the entertainment business was discussed, including a proposed exhibition of members work, and it was decided that this should take place in September. A sub-committee was appointed to ascertain the support which would be given by the members, and it is to be hoped that they will show the same enthusiasm as that which helped to make such a success of the inaugural exhibition in August last.
Tuesday 15th July 1913 Page 13 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
PHOTOGRAPHIC ART
The annual exhibition of the Adelaide Camera Club was opened in the Society of Arts Gallery at the Institute, North-terrace, on Monday and will be continued to-day. There was an admirable display of photographic works of art. In all there were 103 pictures exhibited in addition to loan pictures from Miss Dorothy Warner, Kapunda; the Kapunda Photographic Club; the Semaphore Photographic Society and Mr. T.B. Ragless, of the Adelaide Camera Club. Seventeen pictures, specially selected by the judges (Messrs. H.P. Gill and T. Stoward occupied the west wall. In addition to the champion picture, "Moored", a Port River subject, shown by "Mr. P.H. Williams, there were the following: "University porch" (Mr. R. Short); "Breakfast" (Mr. P.H. Williams); "A study" (Mr. Alfred Wilkinson); "Travellers" (Mr. P.H. Williams); "A study" and "Sunset" (Mr. Alfred Wilkinson); "The castle of the McCarty More" (Mr. H.P. Holden); "Majestic gums" (Mr. Alfred Wilkinson); "Mystic moer" and "Sunshine and shadow" (Mr. P.H. Williams); "Shades of evening" (Mr. J. Smith); "A study" (Mr. Alfred Wilkinson); "Unfolding morn" (Mr. P.H. Williams); "Innesfallen" (Mr. H.P. Holden); "Autumn" (Mr. N.S. Fry) and "A sunlit cottage" (Mr. Alfred Wilkinson).
Mr. ALFRED WILKINSON
Tuesday 15th July 1913
Page 9 - The Register (Adelaide, South Australia)
Page 2 - The Journal (Adelaide, South Australia)
ANNUAL EXHIBITION
The Adelaide Camera Club which is affiliated with the Society of Arts, opened its annual exhibition of photographs in the Society of Arts Gallery, at the Institute, North terrace on Monday. The club formerly known as the Malvern Camera Club - has owned its present appellation for about nine years and has done good work in educating and raising the artistic taste of its members. It has a present roll of 35 and these have hung 103 specimens of their skill. The society does not work for the sake of award and the highest recognition accorded is the choice of a championship picture from the work of the year.
The judges, Messrs. H.P. Gill and T.H. Stoward, selected 17 photographs as being of exhibition standard and these were separately hung on the western wall. The championship was given to Mr. P.H. Williams for a charming view of fishing vessels moored in the stream at Port Adelaide. The work is a bromide 12 x 8 enlargement from a postcard negative and possesses considerable pictorial quality. The Hon.Secretary (Mr. Reginald Short) shows a good architectural composition, "The Adelaide University Portico". Other choice studies by Mr. Williams include "Unfolding Morn", with light effects through autumnal trees: "Mystic Morn", in which the sun's rays contrast with dark pine trunks; and "When Leaves Fall". Mr. Alfred Wilkinson shows versatility in his "Portrait Study" and "Sunlit Cottage" and other good landscapes are a cloud effect by Mr. J. Smith and an autumn view by Mr. N.S. Fry, whose "Fallen Leaves" on the eastern wall, is also a creditable production. Mr. William's has on exhibition excellent examples of pinhole photography, a simple process capable of good effects, but one that is perhaps too much neglected. Other prominent exhibitors are Messrs. H.F. Holden, E.C. Grigson, J. Cain, H.C. Malpas and W.E. Hill. A number of the photos that have made creditable compositions just miss the boundary line of art work by the want of sufficient attention to small details of lighting, the selection of an inopportune moment for exposure, or an error in the choice of printing depth and media. In other cases, again, there has been an endeavor to crowd too much into the picture. The work on view, however, is on the whole instructive and amateur photographers can learn much that is of value from the exhibition, which will remain open today. Four loan exhibits are also hung. That from the Kapunda Photographic Club includes a good daffodil study by T. Warner and "Billiard Player" and a rose study by M. Thompson. Miss Dorothy Warner, of Kapunda, has a separate and worthy collection of portraiture. The chief contributions in the Semaphore Photographic Society's display are coppice and cloud scenery by R. Fraser and a fine view of a Port Adelaide wharf and mills, by an unnamed exhibitor. Mr. T.B. Ragless, of the Adelaide Camera Club, shows a dainty gem in his picture of a wattle sprig.
The executive officers of the club are: President, Mr. P.J. Williams; Past President, Mr. T.B. Ragless; Vice-President, Mr. W.E. Hill; Hon.Treasurer, Mr. C.A. Hutchison; Librarian and Lanternist, Mr. H.G. Malpas; Members Representative, Mr. H.F. Holden and Hon.Secretary, Mr. Reginald Short.
22nd July 1913 Page 388 - Volume 20 No. 7 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
On 5th May Mr. T.B. Ragless, of the Adelaide Camera Club, lectured on “Combination Cloud Printing”. Contrary to most writers on this subject, Mr. Ragless advocates printing from the cloud negative first, the landscape being printed over the sky.
Mr. T.C. Callow, of Kodak (Australasia) Limited, visited us on 2nd June, and imparted some of his knowledge of Orthochromatics and color photography. The advantageous use of the Orthochromatic and Pan chromatic plate was discussed, and some excellent prints were submitted for comparison.
The prismatic solar spectrum was demonstrated, and the colors from the dark red to the ultra violet explained, as regards their comparative luminosity to the eye, and their chemical action on the photographic plate. The fundamental principles of color photography were also touched upon, and it was evident Mr. Callow had studied deeply this branch of the art.
Tuesday 22nd July 1913
Page 7 - The Register (Adelaide, South Australia)
Page 12 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
At the fifth annual meeting of the Semaphore Photographic Society the President (Mr. J. Smith) occupied the chair. The report of the committee presented by the secretary (Mr. C. Mart) stated that the inaugural exhibition, held in August, was a great success. The 60 or 70 framed pictures evidenced considerable skill in the art.
Members were indebted to the following for demonstrations and lectures during the session: Mr. R. Fraser ("The Divine Idea of Composition in Picture making)", Mr. T.B. Ragless "Lantern Slide Demonstration" and "Cloud Painting"), Mr. J.T. Cain (lantern slide evening), Mr. H.H. Wight (demonstration of exposure of plates and development), Messrs. Mart and Turner (telephoto exposures and bromide prints for telephoto negatives), Mr. S.P. Bond (lantern evening, in which Coleridge's poem, "The Ancient Mariner", was depicted), Mr. T.C. Callow (auto-chromatic plates and color photography). The committee expressed the hearty appreciation of members to Captain Creer for his kindness during the session.
Officers elected: President, Mr. J. Smith; Hon.Secretary, Mr. C. Mart: committee, Captain Creer, Messrs. Turner, R. Fraser, and N. Whitcombe.
Friday 15th August 1913 Page 2 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
We have the gift of the annual report of the Semaphore Photographic Society from Mr. Charles W. Mart, the Hon.Secretary.
The committee congratulate the members on the very satisfactory condition in which the society stands at present.
The following review of the past year's work will probably prove interesting:
The average attendance at the monthly meetings has been eight members. The committee deplore the loss of three valued members who have resigned during the past session, namely, Mr. Geo. Anderson (through ill-health), and Dr. and Mrs. Gething. Two lady members have been welcomed.
At the monthly meeting last August the Society held the Inaugural Exhibition, and the committee were delighted at the response that the members made and thanks are also due to the members friends.
The collection of between 60 and 70 framed pictures was a pleasing display and evidenced considerable skill in the art.
Not withstanding the inclemency of the weather, there was an encouraging attendance of members and friends, among those present being several members of the Adelaide Camera Club.
The following members and friends gave demonstrations and lectures during the session: Messrs. R. Fraser, T.B. Ragless, J.T. Cain, H.H. Wright, R. Fraser, C.W. Mart. — Turner, S.P. Bond, T.B. Ragless, T.C. Callow.
In concluding thanks were expressed to Captain T.E. Creer for past kindnesses.
The President (Mr. J. Smith) expresses a desire that the members will continue to take an active interest in the welfare of the Society, and reminds the members that the next members exhibition will take place in the Old Council Chamber, Semaphore Town Hall, on the first Monday in September, which he requests them to support by sending along their work.
Wednesday 3rd September 1913
Page 17 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
Page 7 - The Register (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The second exhibition of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held at the Semaphore Town Hall on Monday evening, when an encouraging attendance congregated to view a collection of about 120 framed pictures, which had been artistically arranged by the committee. A high standard of work was maintained, and admiration was freely expressed. A pleasant feature was a loan exhibit from the President (Mr. Smith) of pictures by David Blount, England, including some excellent landscape and portrait studies by the gum-bichromatic process. Mr. Smith was also represented by a number of his own pictures on carbon, self-toning and sepia toned bromide. Mr. Fraser, who is widely known in photographic circles, hung some excellent landscape and genre pictures on carbon. There were also some striking enlargements by Messrs. Mart, Horswill, Turner, Clements, Captain Creer and others. The society were indebted to the Adelaide Camera Club for their assistance in the form of a loan exhibit of 25 pictures. These were of a high standard, the most prominent being an early morning study of fishing boats on the Port River by Mr. P.H. Williams. There were also some excellent pictures by Mr. R. Short.
Friday 5th September 1913 Page 2 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The second exhibition of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held in the local Town Hall on Monday last. The attendance was good, a large number of visitors attending by invitation. One hundred and twenty framed pictures were exhibited, a high standard of work being shown throughout. A special feature was a loan exhibit (by the President, Mr. Smith) of some excellent gum-bichromatic landscape and portrait studies by David Blount, England. Mr. Smith also showed a number of his own pictures, which were very good examples of carbon, self-toning, and sepia-toned bromide processes. Mr. R. Fraser, who is widely known in photographic circles, showed some fine carbon examples of landscape and genre pictures. There were also excellent enlargements by Messrs. Mart, Horswill, Turner and Clements, and Captain Creer and others. The Society was indebted to the Adelaide Camera Club for the loan of 25 of the pictures shown; prominent among these was an early morning study of fishing boats on the Port River by Mr. P.H. Williams, and some commendable pictures by the secretary of this society, Mr. R. Short. The exhibits, as a whole, showed great merit, both from a pictorial and technical point of view.
22nd September 1913 Page 499 - Volume 20 No. 9 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The second exhibition of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held at the Semaphore Town Hall on the 1st September, when an encouraging attendance of visitors congregated to view a collection of about 120 framed pictures. A good quality of work was maintained, and a feature of the exhibition was a loan exhibit from the President, Mr. Smith, of pictures by David Blount, England, including some excellent landscape and portrait studies by the gum-bichromatic process. Mr. Smith was also represented by a number of his own pictures in carbon, self-toning paper, and sepia-toned bromide. Mr. Fraser hung some excellent carbon landscape, and general pictures.
There were also some striking enlargements by members, Messrs. Mart, Horswill, Turner, Clements, Captain Creer, and others.
The society were indebted to the Adelaide Camera Club for their assistance in the form of a loan exhibit of 25 pictures. These were of a very high standard, the most prominent being an early morning study, by Mr. P.H. Williams, of fishing boats on the Port River. There were also some excellent pictures by their secretary, Mr. Reg. Short.
Wednesday 15th October 1913 Page 6 - The Register (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The rendering of the photographic image in color, the dream of the camera worker, which has been a subject of experiment for the scientist and the manufacturer in recent years, seems to have reached a realistic stage to the amateur in the new process introduced by the Padget Company. This process was demonstrated by Mr. S.P. Bond on Monday evening before members of the Semaphore Photographic Society and friends, and it was with zealous interest that the various operations were followed. Although color photography is only in its initial stages, and is a subject which appears to be quite beyond the average amateur, the enthusiast who is accustomed to developing his own pictures should find no obstruction to success in this branch of the art, the manipulations being of the simplest, and the beautiful results obtainable will adequately justify any trouble expended on it. The plates used in connection with this process are socially prepared panchromatic, i.e., sensitive to all the colors of the spectrum, the plate being placed in the dark slide in contact with a "taking screen" and exposed in the usual way. This "taking screen" consists of a glass plate ingeniously bespotted all over with squares of the three primary colors — red, green, and blue-violet — in regular pattern and of microscopic size and the light must first pass through this screen before acting on the sensitive plate. The plate is then developed in total darkness, and a transparency made similar to a lantern slide. This transparency when bound up with a "viewing screen" of similar pattern to the "taking screen" shows the colors of the original in all their delicacy and vividness. A vote of thanks was awarded to Mr. Bond for his trouble in preparing the demonstration and Mr. Frazer, in proposing the same, said the society was honored in being the first in South Australia to view a practical demonstration of the new process. The motion was seconded by Mr. Wight.
Friday 17th October 1913 Page 5 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
LECTURE ON COLOR PHOTOGRAPHY
The monthly meeting of Semaphore Photographic Society was held at the Society's rooms, Esplanade, Semaphore, on Monday evening, October 13. There was a large attendance of members, and one new member was elected. The special feature of the meeting was a lecture by Mr. S.P. Bond, of Adelaide, on "Color Photography", and a demonstration of a new method known as Paget Color Photography. The lecturer first gave a very clear exposition of the principles on which the process is founded, and proceeded to detail the method of producing a colored transparency by ordinary photography from a negative made for the purpose, and from which any number of copies can be reproduced.
The following advantages are claimed for the process: It is at present the only method of reproducing from a negative any number of colored transparencies all identically the same.
The results are faithful and true reproductions in color of the objects photographed. That no other process with the color elements on the plate give such brilliancy of colors. That lantern slides can be shown in any ordinary lantern and give well lighted pictures from a one-foot picture with an oil lamp to one of 16 feet with an arc lamp, and are not damaged in any way by the heat. That the negative can also be used for making ordinary prints and bromide enlargements.
That the negative plate keeps well. That it is the most economical method of producing colored transparencies. That the process is suitable for every kind of subject, landscape, portraiture, scientific subjects, and especially photo-micrography, and also for stereoscopic work. For this process only the knowledge of ordinary photography is needed, and any amateur who is accustomed to develop his own negatives will find no difference in making one for color, as the manipulations are of the simplest, and the beautiful results obtainable will adequately justify any amount of trouble expended on it.
The material required for the process consists of a compensating filter, a taking screen, a specially adjusted panchromatic plate, a viewing screen, and a transparency plate. The panchromatic plates, which are sensitive to all the colors of the spectrum, are placed in the dark slide in contact with a "taking screen" and exposed in the usual way. This "taking screen" consists of a glass plate ingeniously bespotted all over with squares of the three primary colors, red, green and blue-violet, in regular pattern and of microscopic size, and the light must first pass through this screen before acting on the sensitive plate. The uses and purposes of these various articles was explained in a clear and unmistakable manner, and particulars given as a guide to the necessary exposure to produce a suitable negative first, and then the transparency from the same. In development the best results are said to be obtained with rodinal, 1 in 30, and developments should be complete in two minutes. It was shown that unless a green safe light is used development must take place in total darkness, because the plate being panchromatic is sensitive to the ordinary red light commonly used, as well as to the yellow and blue. A transparency is then made similar to a lantern slide, and this transparency when bound up with a "viewing screen" of similar pattern to the "taking screen" shows the colors of the original in all their delicacy and vividness. The lecturer exhibited a fine and varied assortment of both negative and color transparencies which he had made by this process, and stated that he had been made conversant with the system only a fortnight prior to their production.
The exhibits were completely satisfying to the audience of the practicability, simplicity and beauty of the Paget Color photography. In moving a vote of highly appreciative thanks to the lecturer, Mr. R. Fraser said that the Semaphore Photographic Society had been honored in having the first demonstration of Paget Color Photography in Australia, Mr. S. P. Bond having the sole rights to the process in Australia had greatly favored the Society in this respect.
Mr. H. T. Wright heartily seconded the motion, and in doing so claimed to be an old friend of the lecturer. The motion was carried with acclamation, and the thanks of the society were presented to Mr. Bond by the President (Mr. J. Smith) in a few well chosen sentences.
Thus terminated one of the most interesting and educative meetings in the history of the Society. The subject announced for the next meeting, Monday 3rd November, is "Daylight Photography", by Mr. T.C. Callow, of the Kodak Company, and comprises exposed plates developed by tank method, gaslight printing from negatives, sepia toning of resultant prints. Visitors will be heartily welcomed to all meetings.
Friday 7th November 1913 Page 4 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The usual monthly meeting of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held at the Society's rooms, Esplanade, Semaphore, on Monday 3rd November. There was a good attendance of members considering the boisterous and squally state of the weather. The principal feature of the evening was a series of demonstrations, three in number, to show the simplicity, ease and cleanliness of photography by the Kodak methods, the demonstrator being Mr. T.C. Callow, of the Kodak Company.
(1) TANK DEVELOPMENT: A spool containing ten exposed films was transferred to the developing tank in full gaslight, and although the exposures had varied from 1-200th of a second on a seascape to half an hour on an interior architectural subject, and various speeds in between these two extremes, they were all developed in the tank in the one solution, and at the same time. Fifteen minutes having been allowed for development, the films were removed from the tank and fixed openly in the well-lighted room. The results proved eminently satisfactory, showing well developed, good printing negatives in landscape, seascape, portraiture, and architectural subjects.
(2) GASLIGHT PRINTING: The demonstrator dexterously manipulated various makes of gaslight printing papers, and produced some very fine prints from whole plate negatives in portraiture and landscape. The printing papers were handled in the usual way, and ordinary gaslight was used to illuminate the room instead of a red or yellow light as is customary, and necessary, when bromide papers are used. Where printing magnesium ribbon was used, from two to three inches for each exposure was found necessary, according to the density of the negative, at two feet from the printing frame.
(3) SEPIA TONING: This was the usual sulphide process, and the resultant tones were very beautiful.
The work of the evening conclusively proved that by using Kodak methods the stuffy dark room may be dispensed with in all the processes of picture making by photography, following that of taking the subject on the camera, and the work done in the comfort of one's own sitting room.
Mr. Callow proved himself to be a rapid and clean operator, and a particularly bright, racy, and effective lecturer. During the evening a number of questions, pertaining to the work in hand, were asked by members, and satisfactorily answered by Mr. Callow; and numerous useful hints given by that gentleman for improved work were carefully noted for future use. The best thanks of the meeting were conveyed to Mr. Callow and his assistant, Mr. Kevers, on the proposition of Mr. R. Fraser, seconded by Captain McDiarmid, and supported by Captain Creer and Mr. C. Mort.
The President (Mr. J. Smith) announced the subject for next meeting to be "Floral Photography", illustrated by lantern slides, by Mr. C. Radcliffe.
22nd November 1913 Page 611 - Volume 20 No. 11 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The rendering of the photographic image in color, which has always been the dream of the camera worker, and which has been a subject of experiment for the scientist and the manufacturer in recent years, seems to have reached a realistic stage to the amateur in the new process introduced by the Paget Company. This process was demonstrated by Mr. S.P. Bond recently before members, and the various operations were followed with interest. Although color photography is only in its initial stages, and is a subject which appears to be quite beyond the average amateur, the enthusiast who is accustomed to developing his own pictures should find no obstruction to success in this branch of the art, the manipulations being of the simplest, and the beautiful results obtainable will adequately justify any amount of trouble expended on it.
The plates used in connection with this process are specially prepared panchromatic, i.e., sensitive to all the colors of the spectrum, the plate being placed in the dark side in contact with a “taking screen”, and exposed in the usual way. This “taking screen” consists of a glass plate ingeniously bespotted all over with squares of the three primary colors — red, green, and blue-violet, in regular pattern and of microscopic size, and the light must first pass through this screen before acting on the sensitive plate. The plate is then developed in total darkness, and a transparency made similar to a lantern slide. This transparency, when bound up with a “viewing screen” of similar pattern to the “taking screen", shows the colors of the original in all their delicacy and vividness.
Friday 6th February 1914 Page 5 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The regular monthly meeting of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held on Monday 2nd February. Mr. J. Smith, President, being in the chair. There was a good attendance of members, and one new member was proposed.
The subject in chief for the evening was a "Carbon Demonstration" by Mr. Robert Fraser. The practical demonstration of this beautiful process was preceded by a chat on the carbon process, in which Mr. Fraser traced the history of the process from the year 1853, when Poitevin is credited with having experimented with a printing process having carbon as its basis, up to the year 1864, when Mr. Swan made his great and final improvements and patented the process. It was shown that few if any improvements have been made in the process itself since 1864, although the manner of manipulating it has been considerably simplified. Mr. Fraser then proceeded to explain the advantages of the carbon process, its few disadvantages, and gave a clear exposition of the theory of the process.
The advantages summarized are:
(1) The absolute permanency of the prints;
(2) The enormous range of color in which they may be produced, suitable to every different subject, according to the worker's taste;
(3) The variety of uses to which it may be applied, including its transfer to opal, porcelain, wood, silk, linen, etc., as well as to paper, white or tinted.
The disadvantages being:
(1) The image being reversed when made by single transfer from ordinary negatives;
(2) The trouble of double transfer to correct this, when absolutely necessary;
(3) The difficulty of judging the correct exposure for the tissue when printing on same;
(4) The trouble of sensitizing the tissue.
These disadvantages may appear to be very real on paper, but the speaker, made it clear that they are only bogies, and disappear when tackled in practical fashion as was subsequently shown in the demonstration.
The theory of the process cannot be summed up in a few words. Roughly speaking carbon tissue is gelatine and pigment spread on paper and dried. This is non-sensitive to active light until immersed in a bath of bichromate of potassium. The action of light on the bichromate of potassium which has been absorbed by the gelatine is to render it insoluble. Thus when the tissue is put on a printing frame behind a negative, and exposed to actinic light, the light striking through the shadow parts in the negative causes the gelatine in those parts to become insoluble, whilst in the high lights in the negative, because of the heavy deposits of silver there, little or no light gets through to the carbon tissue, and the gelatine in such places is more or less soluble, and in the subsequent development (or washing away) which is done with hot water only, the soluble parts are washed away, whilst the insoluble parts remain, thus forming the picture, the white paper showing through the parts which have been only partially washed away, producing the half-tones of the picture.
The normal sensitizing solution given was:
Potassium bichromate, 1 ounce.
Ammonium 0.880, 5 drops.
Water, 20 ounces.
A weaker bath gives more contrast, and a stronger bath a softer image. The duration of immersion should be about two minutes.
After development is completed, the tissue is immersed in plain cold water for five minutes, then transferred to an alum bath of 5 per cent, strength for another five minutes, subsequently rinsed and hung up to dry in the usual way. The object of the alum bath is to neutralize any potassium bichromate remaining in the tissue.
A practical demonstration was then given of:
1. (a) Sensitizing; (b) Drying; (c) and storing of carbon tissue.
2. Printing; the necessity for a safe edge, and the way to make and use an actinometer was duly explained.
3. (a) The developing, (b) fixing, (c) washing, (d) drying of carbon tissue completed the subject.
It may be added that an example of portraiture was treated on engraving black tissue, and one of landscape on sepia, and in each instance the stripping and development was entirely successful, and the results very beautiful.
A hearty vote of thanks couched in very eulogistic terms was carried by acclamation on the motion of Mr. C. Mart (Hon.Secretary), and seconded by Captain McDiarmid and presented to the demonstrator with many compliments by the President (Mr. J. Smith).
In acknowledging the compliment Mr. Fraser thanked the members for their close attention and for their appreciative words. He further impressed on them the necessity of studying the pictorial in photography, and when working the carbon process to make examples only of that class of picture which is realized to be worth preserving. The process being permanent, it should be used only on work of enduring merit.
Friday 6th March 1914 Page 1 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The monthly meeting of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held at the Club rooms on Monday 2nd March.
The President (Mr. J. Smith) occupied the chair, and there was a good attendance of members. Captain Creer was heartily welcomed back after his month's trip to Tasmania, the land of apples and cool breezes.
Mr. Raglass, ex-President of the Adelaide Camera Club, gave an interesting chat and a practical demonstration on the right way to trim, mount, and frame photographic pictures.
Following up Mr. R. Fraser's demonstration of the carbon process at the February meeting, several members experimented with this beautiful and alluring process during the month's interval, and brought their work up for criticism at this meeting. The technical work proved in each case to be more or less successful, whilst that of Messrs. Caire and McGrouther was particularly good. The carbon demonstrator, who acted as critic of the carbon work expressed his pleasure at the aptness of his pupils and his pride in their initial success.
A very hearty vote of thanks was carried by acclamation to Mr. Raglass for his fine demonstration in the earlier part of the evening, and reference was made to his previous useful and unselfish services to the Society. In acknowledging the compliment, Mr. Raglass said it was always a pleasure to him to appear before the Semaphore Photographic Society and to give them the benefit of his experience and training, because he realized that it was not time wasted. The best reward to a demonstrator is the knowledge that the members do profit by the object lessons given and use and apply them to their own personal experience.
Friday 19th June 1914 Page 2 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The Semaphore Photographic Society held its usual monthly meeting at the society's rooms, Esplanade, Semaphore, on Monday evening June 1. There was a good attendance of members, and Mr. J. Smith (the President) occupied the chair. In the absence of Mr. C. Mart (the Hon.Secretary) owing to indisposition, Mr. Whitcombe acted as secretary for the evening.
After considerable discussion it was decided to send a loan collection of pictures to the Adelaide Camera Club Exhibition to be held in Adelaide during July, and not to have a local exhibition this year.
Mr. Simms, of the Kodak Company, gave a paper on radio, on X-ray, photography, illustrated by lantern slides showing the apparatus used, and also pictures showing its wonderful usefulness where applied to dental surgery in discovering the causes of abnormal effects in the jaws of patients. The paper demonstrated Mr. Simms' grip of this very interesting, but very technical, subject, and the lantern slides were a great assistance to the members in following the reader in his descriptions of the apparatus, whilst those slides showing X ray photographs of dental troubles and their causes, made by an Adelaide dentist, assisted by the demonstrator (Mr. Simms) were highly educational, and especially interesting because the patients as treated by X ray photography were residents of this State, and the hidden causes of pain and trouble in the various cases were clearly revealed by the X ray photograph in each and every case.
A hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mr Simms on the proposition of Mr Robert Fraser, seconded by Mr J. Smith. In responding Mr Simms remarked that his pleasure in giving the paper before the society was the greater because of the presence of lady members, and stated that he had attended various photographic societies in South Australia and in Broken Hill, but the Semaphore Photographic Society was the first in which he had noticed lady members, he accordingly congratulated both the society and the ladies present.
The best thanks of the society is due to Mr H.H. Wight (manager Kodak Co.) for his generous loan of the lantern used on this occasion, and his kindness in operating same.
At the close of Mr Simm's demonstration, the members present had the pleasure of seeing some of their own lantern slides screened, and Mr Horswell, and Mr Fraser criticized the pictures, by request, from the technical and pictorial aspect respectively.
Before dispersing, the Chairman reminded the members that the next meeting, 6th July, will be the annual meeting, and asked for a full attendance.
Friday 10th July 1914 Page 3 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
ANNUAL MEETING
The annual meeting of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held in the club-rooms on Monday evening. There was a good attendance of members, the President (Mr. Smith) occupying the chair.
After the usual preliminary business, the Secretary's annual report and the Treasurer's balance-sheet were read and adopted. The report showed the past year to have been decidedly a progressive one, particularly as regards the number and character of the demonstrations given. Messrs. H.H. Wight, S.P. Bond, T.C. Callow, C. Radcliffe, W. Rawlings, R. Fraser, T.B. Ragless, and Syme (of Kodak Co.) gave practical demonstrations and lectures during the year dealing with such subjects as "Paget Color Photography", "Daylight Photography", "Floral Lantern Slides", "Carbon Work", and "Cloud Printing on Bromides".
The balance sheet showed a satisfactory progress to the good on the year's operations.
The election of officers for the ensuing year resulted as follow:
President, Mr. Robert Fraser; Hon.Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. N. Whitcombe; Assistant Secretary, Mr. A. Upton; librarian, Mr. H. Turner; Auditor, Mr. C.J.E. Caire; committee, Messrs. J. Smith, H.H. Wight, and Captain Creer.
After the usual congratulations of the new officers, a very pleasing ceremony took place. Mr. C. Mart, who has been Hon.Secretary of the society for six years, and has retired from office owing to his promotion in business and necessary removal to the city, was given a pleasant surprise in the form of a presentation of an E.P. ink stand suitably inscribed. The presentation was made by the new President on behalf of the society, and he spoke in appreciative terms of Mr. Mart's work as Hon.Secretary of the society. Mr. Smith (ex-President), Captain Creer, Messrs. H.H. Wight, and N. Whitcomb supported.
Mr. Mart, who showed considerable feeling, in responding, said he hoped, in the near future, to renew his association with the society as an ordinary member. He had found the work, not a task, but a great pleasure, and neither he or his wife would forget the kindness shown him.
Monday 20th July 1914 Page 8 - The Register (Adelaide, SA)
A PHOTOGRAPHIC SHOW
An important new departure, will be inaugurated by the Adelaide Camera Club in the Society of Arts Rooms, North terrace, tonight, when an exhibition will be formally opened by Mr. William J. Sowden (President of the Public Library Board). Originally the Malvern Camera Club started about 12 years ago and has undergone various changes, but is now firmly established as a section of the South Australian Society of Arts, affiliated with the Public Library Board. The present exhibition is the best yet held by the club and shows marked improvement in pictorial photography. Members of the club do not work for a prize in each class of photography, but are content to abide by the judge's decision for the champion picture irrespective of class.
The judges are Messrs. Edward Davies, F.A. Joyner and Ernest Gall. Mr. Kauffmann's Victorian loan exhibit is probably the finest example of pictorial photography yet shown in the State. The six pictures by the Clifton Hill Club (Victoria) comprise the set at the Interclub competition for 1914 of the Victorian Photographic Affiliation and this is the fourth year in succession in which this club has achieved this honor. The Pictorial Workers Society of Victoria is limited to 12 members and its exhibit includes, most of the work submitted by its members for its recent (and first) exhibition. Miss Dorothy Warner and Messrs. T. Warner and A.E.J. Klose, of the Kapunda Photographic Club and the Semaphore Photographic Society has sent loan exhibits. The show is highly interesting and instructive. The Adelaide Camera Club has been for some, time negotiating with the fine arts committee of the Public Library Board for the purpose of arranging an historical photographic exhibit in the board's new building and general approval has been given to the scheme.
SIR WILLIAM JOHN SOWDEN
Born 26th April 1858 Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia
Died 10th October 1943 Victor Harbor, South Australia
PRESIDENT
PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD
Tuesday 21st July 1914 Page 12 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA)
A FINE EXHIBITION
THE ART OF PHOTOGRAPHY
The possibilities of the photographic art are pleasingly and strikingly illustrated in the annual exhibition of the Adelaide Camera Club at the Society of Arts Gallery, Institute, North-terrace, which was officially opened on Monday evening. The large attendance was ample evidence of the public interest in the exhibition, to which admittance is free. About 200 pictures are arranged round the walls and are mostly the work of amateurs. The interest in the exhibition is not confined to photographers. Anyone who can appreciate art in any form will find a visit well repaid. So excellent are some of the examples that it is difficult to realize that they were obtained through the usual photographic media. Many are singularly graceful and dainty pencil sketches, to all appearance and others are like drawings of paintings.
The Adelaide Camera Club, originally the Malvern Camera Club, started about 12 years ago and is now a section of the S.A. Society of Arts. The present exhibition is the best yet held by the club and shows marked improvement in pictorial photography. Members of the club do not work for a prize in each class of photography, but are content to abide by the judges decision for the champion Picture, irrespective of class. The judges, Messrs. Edward Davies, F.A. Joyner and Ernest Gall, have selected Mr. Alfred Wilkinson's picture, entitled "The Cathedral Font", as being the champion and 19 other pictures have been adjudged to be up to exhibition standard. Mr. Kauffmann's Victorian loan exhibit is a fine example of pictorial photography. The six pictures by the Clifton Hill Club (Victoria) comprise the set at the interclub competition for 1914 of the Victorian Photographic Affiliation and this is the fourth year in succession that this club have achieved this honor. The Pictorial Workers Society of Victoria is limited to 12 members and their exhibit includes most of the work submitted by their members for their recent (and first) exhibition. Miss Dorothy Warner and Messrs. T. Warner and A.E.J. Klose, of the Kapunda Club and the Semaphore Photographic Society have loaned exhibits.
The exhibit of the Adelaide Camera Club comprises (63 pictures, of which 20 a larger proportion than last year have been deemed to be up to exhibition standard. This is not to say there are not some excellent efforts among the remaining 43, all of which contain features of more than ordinary merit. The champion picture is naturally the central point of interest. It was a difficult subject to attempt and the picture reflects great credit on the exhibitor. He photographed the font at a time when a fugitive ray of light, evidently from some small crevice had thrown a soft shaft of sunshine on the side of the object, causing a patch of light and shade on the otherwise even toned tiled floor. The delicately veined marble and decorated stonework have been well brought out and the whole conception is fittingly subdued without any suggestion of flatness. The background was not the least difficult part of the picture. Unfortunately there is not enough distance in it to convoy the idea of the "dim religious light" which is generally the keynote of an ecclesiastical interior. In "Sunrise" by Mr. H.F. Holden, the President of the club, some beautiful effects are noticeable. "The Castle of the McCarty More" also by Mr. Holden is an old-world scene and has been skilfully treated, the stones blending harmoniously. "Sunlit Trees" by Mr. P.H. Williams, shows how the artistic mind can compose a picture in any ramble in the hills. The "atmosphere" is particularly fine. "Miss M." by Mr. Alfred Wilkinson, is a clever portrait study and full of expression. "Early Morning at Port Adelaide", by, Mr. P.H. Williams, is a decidedly good effort, the effect being exquisitely soft and vapory Mr. Holden was responsible for "Coffinswell Village" and "Sunset" and both are splendidly executed. Other exhibitors or selected pictures are Mr. H.G. Malpes, who entered "Pines" and "Morning Mists" and Mr. P.J. Williams, who was responsible for "Porch of Stow Church" an excellent pinhole photograph, "A Glimpse of Melbourne" and "Playing at Horses". Among the other exhibits of the Adelaide Camera Club are many good ones. "Still Water" by Mr. A.E. Young, is a photograph of the Torrens in a peaceful mood. His "Reflections" contains possibilities, but it is a trifle flat. "A Cottage in the Hills" by Mr. P.H. Williams, might well have gone with the selected pictures. The suggestion of distance is splendidly carried out. "The Bank Entrance" by Mr. R. Short, is a capital architectural study. There are many others that might be referred to, showing that the State has nothing to be ashamed of in the realm of pictorial photography. Some of the loan exhibits would seem to reach the high water mark of perfection and would do credit to any gallery. The examples sent from Kapunda and the Semaphore received very favorable notice on Monday and should be an encouragement to other suburban and country societies to exhibit their photographic abilities. The Adelaide Camera Club welcomes new members and the exhibition will doubtless result in the Hon.Secretary, Mr. Reginald Short, receiving numerous applications for enrollment.
The exhibition, which will be on view, from 1pm to 5pm and from 8pm to 10pm on Tuesday and Wednesday, was formally opened on Monday by Mr. William J. Sowden, the President of the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery Board. He remarked that the Board intended to establish in the new building, which was not yet finished, a sequence of photographic views to illustrate the progress of photography from the silhouette principle to the present time. They also intended to establish, as far as possible, a portrait gallery containing a series of historical events in South Australia, a record which would be invaluable in time to come. The Adelaide Camera Club would have the hearty co-operation of the board in its efforts in those directions. He concluded by remarking that the object of the club was not only to encourage the highest form of the art, but to encourage the lowest performer to become the highest.
15th September 1915 Page 506 - Volume 22 No. 9 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
At the Annual Meeting held on 5th July, the Report and Balance Sheet proved highly satisfactory reading, the year's program having been much approved of.
The average attendance of two-thirds of the effective membership was considered very good.
The officers for the past year, except the Hon.Secretary, were re-elected, and Mr. A.S Upton was appointed Hon.Secretary.
The Ordinary Monthly Meeting of the Society was held 2nd August, when the program for the current year was adopted.
Mr. J. Smith provided the evening’s demonstration subject “Making and Binding Lantern Slides".
Friday 7th July 1916 Page 4 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
Y.M.C.A. SNAPSHOTS FROM HOME LEAGUE
LOCAL BRANCH FORMED
One of the chief aims of the Y.M.C.A. in all its war work has been to maintain the link between men and their homes. The more a man thinks of home, the more he hears from home, the better soldier he will be. The associations of home help to keep him straight and decent and clean among the temptations of camp life; the thoughts of home relieve the dreary monotony of drill; and news from home cheers him up and puts fresh heart and spirit into him as nothing else in the world can. A sheaf of snapshots from home will promote this splendid work. We all know that the men out there are not asking for sympathy. This is the last thing in the world they would ever ask for. Perhaps, they would not admit that they were home sick, but there is hardly a man among them whose thoughts do not drift homewards whenever they are left to themselves. Some may think of a villa, some a cottage, some may think of only a single dingy room. But always it is home, the place that shelters all that is dearest to each man. And thinking grows into longing, and longing grows into that dull, hopeless heartache that nothing can ease except a glimpse of home. And how can they always be thinking of home without longing for a sight of the old familiar scenes and faces. Here is a field of service for every man and woman amateur photographer and every junior camera user where they can "do their little bit" in connection with the war.
A local branch of the League has been formed in this district under the auspices of the Semaphore Photographic Society. As explained above the object of the League is to provide men on active service and in hospitals with pictures of their own homes, relatives and friends. A strong appeal is made to all amateur photographers to join the League, and all desirous of helping in this worthy object should communicate with the Hon. Secretary, Snapshots from Home League, Semaphore, and full particulars will then be forwarded. Applications for snapshots from relatives and friends of men on active service in this district should be sent to the Hon. Secretary.
15th July 1916 Page 381 - Volume 23 No. 7 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The monthly meeting of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held on the 12th June, when Mr. Robert Fraser demonstrated the carbon process, the advantages being that it was permanent and enabled any color to be produced at will. The method of working carbon tissue is extremely simple, first sensitizing, then printing and development by means of hot water only.
Mr. Durham presented the Society with a retouching cabinet, made by himself, and it is very gratifying to see that members take such a keen interest in the welfare of the Society.
15th August 1916 Page 442 - Volume 23 No. 8 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The annual meeting of the Semaphore Photographic Society was held on July 3rd. The eighth annual report was presented. Among other matters, reference was made to the following points:
Members have taken a keen interest in the welfare of the Society during the past year, as is seen by the fact that seven new members have been proposed. This is a record number of new members for any one year since its inception, and in itself speaks well for the enthusiasm displayed by members individuals. The program arranged by the Committee for the year has been fully and successfully carried out, with but one exception.
Owing to the depressing influence of the war. the Committee decided not to hold an exhibition this year.
Two competitions have held, with the result that in the competition in “Flower Studies”. Mr. Smith first place, and Captain Creer, second. In the competition "Bromide Prints, Trimmed and Mounted", Mr. Horswill was awarded first place, and Mr. Caire, second.
The good fellowship between members is all that can be desired, and we look forward to the future with hope and confidence that the Society will be able to carry on its useful and educational work in its endeavor to create and maintain a kindly and helpful spirit among all amateur photographers. A local branch of the Y.M.C.A. “Snapshots-from-Home” League was formed under the auspices of the Society.
Mr. Robert Fraser was re-elected President. and Mr. A.S. Upton, Hon.Secretary and Treasurer.
Wednesday 3rd March 1920 Page 10 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The Semaphore Photographic Society held an exhibition on Monday, the first since the outbreak of the war. The Mayor (Mr. R.H. Smith) performed the opening ceremony. Fine examples of pictorial work in the landscape, seascape, and portraiture section were shown by Captains Creer and Weir, Messrs. C.J.E. Caire, H. Horswill, R. Fraser, J. Smith, H.H. Bushel, H. Turner, and A. Parkes. The Adelaide Camera Club also loaned exhibits.
Wednesday 3rd March 1920 Page 2 - Daily Herald (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Under the auspices of the Semaphore Photographic Society an interesting exhibition of pictures was given in the Semaphore Masonic Hall on Monday afternoon and evening. There were over 50 exhibits by local members. The display was reinforced by about 70 loan exhibits from the Adelaide Camera Club. Much credit is due to the society for its excellent effort. The members responsible for the local exhibits were Messrs. H. Bushell, C.J.E. Caire, R. Fraser, J. Smith, H. Horswill, and Captain T. Creer.
Wednesday 3rd March 1920 Page 10 - The Register (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The Semaphore Photographic Society held a successful exhibition in the Masonic Hall, Semaphore, on Monday afternoon and evening. This was the first exhibition held by the society since the outbreak of war, during which the members have interested themselves in the work of the Y.M.C.A. "Snapshots from Home League".
The Mayor (Mr. R.H. Smith) performed the opening ceremony. Some exceptionally fine pictorial work was shown.
Among the exhibitors were: Captain Creer and Captain Weir, Messrs. C.J.E. Caire, H. Horswill, R. Fraser, J. Smith, H.H. Bushell, H. Turner, and H.H. Wight, and Misses M. Sadlier and A. Parkes.
The Adelaide Camera Club sent loan exhibits.
Thursday 4th March 1920 Page 2 - Daily Herald (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The President of the Semaphore Photographic Society wishes to correct a mistake which appeared in the report of the number of pictures stated to have been displayed at the society's exhibition on Monday. Of the 110 pictures exhibited 90 were by local members, the remainder being loaned by the Adelaide Camera Club.
Friday 5th March 1920 Page 5 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
SUCESSFUL EXHIBITION
The Masonic Hall, Semaphore, was the scene of a highly successful exhibition of photographic work by the members of the Semaphore Photographic Society on Monday last, March 1st. The President (Mr. C.J.E. Caire), in introducing the Mayor of Port Adelaide (Mr. R.H. Smith), gave a brief history of the club. The Mayor, in his opening address, commended to the society a scheme whereby photographs of different parts of the district which were constantly changing might be preserved and placed on record for the coming generations. Mr. Robert Fraser, in thanking the Mayor for his attendance, enlarged on this scheme, and made an offer to the Mayor that if the Society could get his assurance that work of this nature would be placed on exhibition and cared for by the Town Hall authorities, he was sure that the Society would do all in their power to fulfill their part of the scheme. A review of the matter was promised by the Mayor.
The Semaphore Photographic Society has been in existence for some twelve years, and of the members who exhibited at the above exhibition, four of them were at the original foundation meeting of the Society. For a club of about twelve active members a show of 90 pictures cannot be taken as otherwise than satisfactory, especially when it is considered that the majority of members are new entrants into the realm of art photography.
During the past six years, and during the progress of the Great War, no exhibitions have been held, mainly owing to the great amount of work entailed by the "Snapshots from Home" movement, for which every member of the Semaphore Photographic Society was an ardent worker.
The object of this exhibition was to give a fresh impetus to photographic work, and to introduce to those who do camera work a society in their own midst which could help them in their endeavors. This up-to-date society has recently acquired an artificially lighted enlarging lantern and a library of some 70 odd books on photographic subjects for the use of its members.
It is hoped by the Executive of the Society that many amateur photographers who were, during the war, "Snapshots from Home" workers, will join the society, and not lose their initial practices in photography, but become ardent workers of art pictures by the many photographic processes which are demonstrated at the monthly meetings of the society.
A loan exhibit of some 20 pictures by prominent workers of the Adelaide Camera Club greatly enhanced the exhibition.
During the afternoon and evening the display was visited by some 300 persons, who expressed their appreciation of the beautiful works displayed.
The following well-known amateurs exhibited samples of their work: Captains Creer and P. Weir, Messrs. R. Fraser, H.H. Bushell, H. Horswill, J. Smith, C.J.E. Caire, H. Turner, H.H. Wright, and Misses A. Parkes and M. Sadlier.
Friday 12th March 1920 Page 5 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The Semaphore Photographic Society, through Mr. Robert Fraser, has offered to provide, free of charge, views of interesting portions of our city. The society, however, asks that, if the council is prepared to accept the offer, it should undertake the proper preservation of the views, so that they may be in good condition in years to come when their value will have increased.
Friday 5th August 1921 Page 10 - Port Adelaide News (South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Amateur photographers throughout the district of Port Adelaide will welcome the re-organization of the Semaphore Photographic Society on a new basis. Prior to the war many amateurs enjoyed the privileges of the association, its comradeship, and the possibilities it provided for improvement. While the war was in progress many members and ex-members contributed to the "snapshots from home", which were so appreciated by the soldiers abroad. The meetings of the society are held monthly, and demonstrations are given by qualified camera workers in all phases of photography. These demonstrations themselves are a ready educational and instructive means of learning how to get the best results from your camera.
The society is in possession of a fine library containing some 70 odd books dealing; with the various phases of photography. The books are available for the use of members of the society without charge, and in themselves are a very helpful means of learning a fascinating hobby. There is also provided a splendid electrically lighted enlarging camera for use of members without charge, except for materials used. This enables workers with small cameras to obtain large pictures from their small negatives, and in itself is a very valuable asset. Outings are held at frequent intervals, and practical help afforded in the use of the camera, the subjects to choose from various points and the general composition of pictures.
That enthusiastic and noted amateur, Captain Creer, is ready to make his residence at the corner of Semaphore Road and the Esplanade, available for meetings.
Mr. C.J.E. Caire, of Newcastle Street, Yatala, is the President of the society and Mr. S.A. McIvor, of Osborne Street, Largs, is the Hon.Secretary.
Wednesday 4th October 1922 Page 10 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
On Tuesday evening the members of the Semaphore Photographic Society paid a visit of inspection to the workrooms of Messrs. Kodak (Aust.) Proprietary, by invitation from the local branch manager (Mr. H. Wright). Work was in full progress when the visitors were conducted through the developing and printing rooms, and every process was subjected to inspection. The special type of printing machines, expressly designed for dealing with work as rapidly as possible, were found particularly attractive. The various devices for time-saving, such as mechanical washing and electrically controlled glazing of prints also came in for a share of attention. At the conclusion of the inspection the visitors were addressed by Mr. van der Velden, who dealt with points of importance in the preparation of photographic chemical solutions, and other matters of interest to the amateur photographer. The thanks of the Camera Club members were conveyed to Mr. Wright, his staff, and Mr. van der Velden, for having provided so interesting an evening.
Wednesday 4th October 1922 Page 4 - The Register (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Last night the members of the Semaphore Photographic Society paid a visit of inspection to the workrooms of Messrs. Kodak (Aust.) Proprietary, Limited, by special invitation from the local branch manager (Mr. H. Wight). Work was in full progress when the visitors were conducted through the developing and printing rooms, and every process was subjected to inspection. The special type of printing machines, expressly designed for dealing with work as rapidly as possible, were found particularly attractive. The various devices for time-saving, such as mechanical washing and electrically controlled glazing of prints also came in for a share of attention. At the conclusion of the inspection the visitors were addressed by Mr. van der Velden, (demonstrator for Kodak, Limited), who dealt with points of importance in the preparation of photographic chemical solutions, and other matters of interest to the amateur photographer. The thanks of the Camera Club members were conveyed to Mr. Wight, his staff, and Mr. van der Velden, for having provided so interesting an evening.
14th April 1923 Page 208 - Volume 30 No. 4 - Australasian photo-review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
At the January meeting of the Semaphore Photographic Society, they held a landscape competition, Mr. J. Smith gaining the first place. The President, Mr. R. Fraser, reported that, since the previous meeting of the Society, the Board controlling the National Art Gallery of South Australia had, on the advice of the Fine Arts Committee, purchased one of his pictures, a bromide enlargement titled “A Busy Port”, for inclusion in the new section now being established for Pictorial Photography. At the following meeting, Mr. Horswil gave a demonstration on enlarging. Specimen negatives were passed around and their suitability or otherwise for enlarging was clearly explained. He pointed out that much could be accomplished by judicious vignetting, and by using varying thicknesses of chiffon a pleasing softening of the picture could be effected.
Wednesday 8th August 1923 Page 4 - News (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY
SEMAPHORE SOCIETY ADDRESSED
DEVELOPMENT OF NEGATIVES
The development of negatives to produce the best results, was the subject of an interesting address given by Mr. Gordon Walker, a capable professional Adelaide photographer, at the first meeting of the new term of the Semaphore Photographic Society on Monday night. The President (Mr. R. Fraser) presided.
Correct exposures as a first necessity were advocated by Mr. Walker, also the use of a Wynn's meter, or some other such guide to ascertain the actinic light value thus assisting the photographer to decide on his times of exposure for his negatives, under varying circumstances.
The exposures being comparatively correct, the demonstrator showed by a practical development of three negatives under a time and temperature method, with a factor of five, how to get good or poor results, or even failures. Three sensitive plates had been exposed on the same subject, at the same hour and day, each under precisely the same conditions, and each had been given the same time.
With a normal development the results would, of course, have been precisely the same quality of negative in each case, good or otherwise. To show how easily the beginner could spoil plates by under, or over, development, through want of experience, the demonstrator purposely undeveloped the first plate by 50 percent, correctly developed the second plate, and over developed the third by 50 percent, each development being of the stated time basis.
This object lesson was highly educational for all beginners in the practice of this fascinating study and pastime.
Members expressed their appreciation of Mr. Walker's demonstration. It was announced that the club's next meeting on September 3 would constitute an exhibition on the screen of members own lantern slides. This will be an invitation evening, at which lovers of amateur photography may attend.
The society's rooms are at the Masonic Hall. It has now been in existence for 15 years, and has done much valuable work in assisting and improving for 15 years, and has done much value.
Thursday 30th August 1923 Page 6 - News (Adelaide, South Australia)
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
HELPING PHOTOGRAPHY
SEMAPHORE SOCIETY'S WORK
INTERESTING HISTORY
Founded in 1908, the Semaphore Photographic Society has done much to advance amateur photography. Among the foundation members were Captain T. Creer, Messrs. H.H. Wright, John Smith, C. Mart, Rendall, J. Gill, and R. Fraser (present President).
The first President was Mr. Rendall, with Mr. C. Mart as secretary and treasurer. From the beginning of the society and up till 1920 all meetings were held at Captain Creer's residence, Esplanade, Semaphore, in a large boardroom, which had formerly been used by the directors of the Adelaide Steamtug Company.
The society grew rapidly to a membership total of 30. It became something more than a mutual improvement photographic society, with Captain Creer as "mine host". His happy and fine instructive social qualities proved captivating and contagious, and so the society gradually assumed the sociable qualities of a club, plus its photographic aspect and training. For many years, managers of Messrs. Baker & Rouse (New Kodak Company), Harrington & Co., and S.P. Bond and Co., greatly assisted the society by providing competent demonstrations to the syllabus year after year. They are still assisting through members of their staffs.
VALUED MEMBERS
Mr. H. Wight, of Kodak, Limited, a foundation member, is still connected with the society, and Mr. Sims, chief of the Kodak staff, noted for his kind courtesy and helpful spirit, is, as usual, one of the demonstrators for this year. Mr. S.P. Bond has ever been a sympathetic helper of the society. Several years ago, when he was the sole agent in Australia for the Paget color process by photography, he gave the society the very first demonstration of that wonderfully fine and comparatively simple system. Today, Mr. P.H. Williams, of S.P. Bond & Co., and one of Adelaide's most prominent and successful pictoralists, regularly, and with untiring zeal and ability, contributes his quota to the year's instructional work. Messrs. Harrington & Co. are represented by Mr. H. Horsewill, a photographic worker of considerable versatility and an indefatigable worker and helper. He is also a member.
During the 15 years of the club's existence there have been five Presidents - Messrs. Rendall (three years), J. Gill (two years), J. Smith (two years), C.J. Caire (two years), and R. Fraser (seven years).
During the years of the war this society did good work, in conjunction with the Y.M.C.A., in sending snapshots from home to a large number of Australian soldiers in France, Palestine, and Gallipoli, and was represented actively in the North Sea Fleet by Lieutenant D. Scratton (a society member) of H.M.S. Ganges. Lieutenant Scratton held a master's certificate in the mercantile marine, but responded to the call of duty, went into the fray, and survived all its perils. He is a brainy man, a keen student, and a thoughtful photographic worker, and the society was sorry to lose him.
NUMEROUS EXHIBITIONS
The society has held several exhibitions of pictorial work, on each occasion winning public and press appreciation. It has, on a few occasions, exhibited specimens of its members work in Adelaide, in conjunction with the Adelaide Camera Club.
Some of the members have won distinctions in Adelaide and London for pictorial work, and one of the club's workers has recently been honored by the committee of the "South Australia Art Gallery" by the purchase of one of his pictures for the photographic section now being established.
Time has wrought many changes in the personnel of the society. A few have gone out into the realm of the great unseen; others have been removed to Adelaide, or to other States by promotion; a few have wearied of the constant effort to excel without adequate results, and have retired. Still, the society lives and is rejuvenated by new aspirants, male and female. The club holds out welcome hands to desirable applicants to join its membership. It always gives its best to assist members to a higher plane of technical and artistic skill, and to teach them to see beauty everywhere, even in the common things of life.
The first secretary of the society was Mr. C. Mart, and since he vacated office those who have held the position are Messrs. Whitcombe, A. Upton, McIvor, and R.C. Shinkfield (present secretary).
The next meeting is set down for 3rd September, when an exhibition of members own lantern slides will be screened. The meetings are held on the first Monday of each month in the Semaphore Masonic Hall. The society has its own photographic apparatus and enlarging lantern.
Mr. ROBERT FRASER
Born: January 10, 1858, at Port Adelaide
Died: March 11, 1934
PORT RETAILERS PRESIDENT
Wednesday 4th June 1924 Page 6 - News (Adelaide, South Australia)
In Mr. Robert Fraser the Port Adelaide Retail Traders Association has a capable and energetic President. He was one of the founders of the association, and for the last seven years has occupied the Presidential chair. In that capacity he has unostentatiously rendered much useful work in matters of public importance.
In the advocacy of a new and up-to-date post office for Port Adelaide Mr. Fraser has been well to the fore, and on other committees formed to secure public benefits he has represented his association with good results. He is the treasurer of the Port Adelaide Ambulance Committee.
Born on 10th January 1858, at Port Adelaide, Mr. Fraser at the age of 16 years was engaged to Mr. A. Hunwick, of Port Adelaide, to learn the drapery business. By steady work he rose from shop boy to a position carrying the highest trust and responsibility. In June, 1885, he opened his present drapery establishment in St. Vincent street.
Quiet, painstaking, and unassuming in character, Mr. Fraser is a keen business man with a genial nature. He is widely read, is a lover of art, and as an amateur photographer he is recognized as an expert in everything pertaining to that study.
He has for several years been President of the Semaphore Photographic Society, and has often been called on to give lectures and judge at exhibitions.
Mr. R. FRASER
Whatever Mr. Fraser undertakes he does well. His efforts in the interest of his association in assisting to raise war loans and helping in other patriotic movements were marked by great success. When the local city council declined to assist in the raising of the first peace loan Mr. Fraser and his association rose nobly to the occasion and supported Mr. R.H. Smith (former Mayor) to carry the project to such a successful issue that the district won a handsome tablet.
15th January 1926 Page 33 - Volume 33 No. 1 - The Australasian Photographic Review
SEMAPHORE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
At a visit to the Kodak Developing and Printing Department, Adelaide, the members were much impressed by the efficiency with which the work in the studio was carried out, and the advantage of specialization which was necessary in order to produce the output required by the Kodak Same Day Service. All the processes, from the time a film is received into the workroom to the finished print, were fully explained. Quantity, coupled with quality, seems to be the slogan, and the Kodak Company has attained this end. The members were much obliged to Mr. Wight, who made this enjoyable visit possible.
Tuesday 26th March 1929 Page 12 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
Saturday 30th March 1929 Page 44 - Chronicle (Adelaide, South Australia)
Mrs. John Smith, of Hannay-street, Largs Bay, tenders her sincere THANKS to all friends (including the Semaphore Photographic Society) for their kind expressions of sympathy and floral tributes in her recent sad bereavement.
OBITUARY
Mr. JOSEPH EDWARD GILL
Born: 1858, in Adelaide
Died: November 21, 1930, at Glen Osmond
Thursday 4th December 1930 Page 11 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
The late Mr. Joseph Edward Gill, who died at Glen Osmond on 21st November, was born in Adelaide in 1858. He was a son of the late Mr. J.J. Gill, of Semaphore. For fifty years he served in the General Post-office, in various branches, and retired from the position of cashier in June, 1923. In the early 1880's he was an enthusiastic yachtsman, and was well known as the owner of the Hydaspes.
He was a member of the Philatelic Society, and possessed a valuable collection of stamps.
As a member of the Semaphore Photographic Society he did much to advance the art, and was a frequent contributor to exhibitions.
For a period, also, he was secretary of the Semaphore Orchestra. Latterly he had confined his activities to the advancement of the interests of the Glen Osmond Institute, of which he was a vice-President.
Mr. Gill has left a widow (a daughter of the late Mr.Thomas Gill, senior, of Glen Osmond) and one son. Mr. George Gill, of McLaren Flat.
Friday 16th March 1934 Page 20 - The Advertiser (Adelaide, South Australia)
Mr. ROBERT FRASER
Born: 10th January 1858 - Port Adelaide
Died: 11th March 1934 - Semaphore
Mr. Robert Fraser, for many years a well-known business man at Port Adelaide, died at his home, Hall street, Semaphore, on Sunday.
He was born at Port Adelaide on 10th January 1858, and at the age of 16 years started to learn the drapery business from Mr. A. Hunwick at the seaport. In June, 1885, he opened a drapery business in St. Vincent street which has been carried on since his retirement five years ago by his daughter.
For several years Mr. Fraser was President of the Semaphore Photographic Society, and acted as judge of displays for that body and the Adelaide Camera Club.
He was one of the founders of the Port Adelaide Retail Traders Association and for seven years was President.
He was also the first treasurer of the Port Adelaide Citizens Ambulance Committee.
Besides his widow, there are five daughters; Mrs. E.D. Oldfield (Woodville North), Mrs. S. Smith (Woodville) and Misses C.D., and I. Fraser (Hall street, Semaphore), and one son, Mr. Reginald Fraser, of Colonel Light Gardens.
Mr. ROBERT FRASER
Born: 10th January 1858 - Port Adelaide
Died: 11th March 1934 - Semaphore
Mr. Robert Fraser, for many years a well-known business man at Port Adelaide, died at his home, Hall street, Semaphore, on Sunday.
He was born at Port Adelaide on 10th January 1858, and at the age of 16 years started to learn the drapery business from Mr. A. Hunwick at the seaport. In June, 1885, he opened a drapery business in St. Vincent street which has been carried on since his retirement five years ago by his daughter.
For several years Mr. Fraser was President of the Semaphore Photographic Society, and acted as judge of displays for that body and the Adelaide Camera Club.
He was one of the founders of the Port Adelaide Retail Traders Association and for seven years was President.
He was also the first treasurer of the Port Adelaide Citizens Ambulance Committee.
Besides his widow, there are five daughters; Mrs. E.D. Oldfield (Woodville North), Mrs. S. Smith (Woodville) and Misses C.D., and I. Fraser (Hall street, Semaphore), and one son, Mr. Reginald Fraser, of Colonel Light Gardens.