Profile: Rudolf Kingslake, Optician

One can read about Rudolf Kingslake, born Rudolf Klickmann on August 28, 1903, in this biography by The Optical Society. In fact, this article will consist of mostly links to follow to learn more about lens making, the early days of photography and the works of Mr. Kingslake, an eminent academician in lens design and figure in the field of photography.

Kingslake has published books on lens design that are still sold today, such as Lens Design Fundamentals (click look inside for tribute to Rudolf Kingslake), originally printed 40 years ago.

Of special interest is his article, A History of The Rochester, NY Camera and Lens Companies, that traces the early beginnings of the photographic industry in and around New York. Companies such as Kodak and Baush & Lomb, still around today, have their humble beginnings documented. Brands such as Graflex, Ilex, Wollensak and more, still well known by large format photographers, are included in the list.

Coming soon, an article on shutters, some of which is based on Kingslake's article, with plenty of links to follow.

Hope you all had a good holiday season!