What kind of camera took these photos?

[ricksplace]

I have about 50 negatives from 1917 in India. My Grandfather was a photographer with the British troops stationed in Eenjah (India) as he called it. I printed a few images and posted them in my gallery. Grampa is the guy on the Harley. He was born around 1890, and passed away in 1962 when I was 8, so I never really got to know him. I hope you enjoy the pics. The negatives are 2-3/4" X 4-1/2" and appear to be single sheets, or they have been cut from a roll precisely. Any idea what kind of camera might have taken this film from around this era? Just think, no film speed, no light meters! I printed these images without any dodging, burning in, etc. All in all, the image quality is pretty darn good, with some vignetting in the corners. Probably a rapid rectilinear lens? Feel free to leave any and all comments.

 

[Dave Parker]

A film Camera, I can assure you at least that much!



As far as the exact type of camera, that is going to be a VERY difficult question to answer, there were so many different manufactures back then.

Dave

 

[athanasius80]

The negative size means 116 film, so the camera was probably a Kodak 1A or something similar. The lens could be meniscus or Rapid Recilinear. Good luck!

 

[MattCarey]

Don't know about the camera but, did anyone tell your dad to put the kickstand down?

Matt

 

[Eric Rose]

My grandfather was born in India as his father was stationed there in the early 1900's. Unfortunately no photos survived except the usual here I am in my uniform pics.

 

[ricksplace]

Eric:
I have some negs that show the local city life, camel caravans, etc. I'll print a few more and post them.

Rick.