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Archived Trivia Questions & Answers

Expand your knowledge of the history, processes, and cultural influences of photography.

Enjoy reading these archived questions, add your own two cents, or submit your own factoid for possible future use in the weekly BetterPhoto Trivia Quiz.

To lessen the likelihood of confusion and miseducation, only correct answers are displayed in these archives.

215 Trivia Questions

Tungsten Thoughts
In photography, tungsten refers to the type of light commonly found in most household lamps. But what, exactly, is tungsten?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
2/20/2006 10:21:02 AM

Tungsten (formerly wolfram) is a chemical element that has the symbol W (L. wolframium) and atomic number 74.

Tungsten is widely used in light bulb and vacuum tube filaments, as well as electrodes, because it can be drawn into very thin metal wires that have a high melting point.

When used for lighting, it produces a particular color of light.

- Keith K. 2/20/2006 10:21:02 AM

Tungsten is a hard silvery-white non-corrosive metal (74 on the atomic chart). It has the highest melting point of any metal, and among other things, is used to make the filaments in light bulbs.

- Jacqueline M. 2/20/2006 10:21:02 AM

Tungsten (formerly wolfram) is a chemical element that has the symbol W (L. wolframium) and atomic number 74.

Tungsten is widely used in light bulb and vacuum tube filaments, as well as electrodes, because it can be drawn into very thin metal wires that have a high melting point.

- Keith K. 2/20/2006 10:21:02 AM

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Topping the Digital Charts
What camera manufacturer captured the No. 1 slot in U.S. digital-camera sales for 2005?

- Kerry D. 2/14/2006 11:08:48 AM

Kodak, followed by Canon, then Sony.

Editor's Note: Right you are, Humberto! Here's more: Kodak was actually the leader in digital camera sales for the past two years. Kodak's market share leaped to 24.9 percent in 2005 from 21 percent in 2004, according to an Associated Press Report. In 2005, Canon moved ahead of Sony into the No. 2 spot.

- Humberto L. 2/14/2006 11:08:48 AM

Eastman Kodak

- Connie C. 2/14/2006 11:08:48 AM

Kodak

- Kellie E. 2/14/2006 11:08:48 AM

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Lunar Mission
In what year did a spacecraft return to Earth with the first images of the far side of the moon?

- Kerry D. 2/6/2006 3:53:31 PM

1959

Editor's Note: Yes, indeed, Connie! Here's more: Luna 3 was launched in October 1959 by the old Soviet Union.

- Connie C. 2/6/2006 3:53:31 PM

Luna 3 Oct 1959

- Mary R. 2/6/2006 3:53:31 PM

Soviet spacecraft Luna 3 in October of 1959

- John M. 2/6/2006 3:53:31 PM

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Art Trend
There's an art trend that imitates photographic effects and details. What is its name?

- Blanca A. 1/26/2006 6:31:20 AM

Photorealism

- Ben T. 1/26/2006 6:31:20 AM

Photorealism, which has been around since at least the late 1960s, so it's not strictly speaking a trend. Some noted practitioners include Chuck Close and Richard Estes.

- Larry R. 1/26/2006 6:31:20 AM

photorealism

- Per U. 1/26/2006 6:31:20 AM

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Charting the f/numbers
What is the true aperture scale (i.e., the standard f/stop chart in one-stop increments)?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/5/2006 2:23:11 PM

f/1.0, f/1.4, f/2.0, f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8, f/11, f/16, f/22, f/32, f/45, f/64.
Often, the "f/" is not used in practice, so it is 1.0, 1.4, 2.0, etc.

- Abby W. 1/5/2006 2:23:11 PM

.7, 1, 1.4, 2, 2.8, 4, 5.6, 8, 11, 16, 22, 32, 45, 64, 90

Of course these are the "bottom" part of a fraction. (as in: 1/1.4 or 1/45)

- John S. 1/5/2006 2:23:11 PM

What is the true aper. scale in one stop increments? using the square root of two: 1, 1.4142136, 2, 2.8284271,
4, 5.6568542, 8, 11.313708, 16,
22.627417, 32, 45.254834, 64, 90.509668,
128.
As far as I know these are the correct
f/stops carried out this many places.

- Bob N. 1/5/2006 2:23:11 PM

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F/Stop Guide
What does the "f" stand for in, say, f/22?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/5/2006 2:15:46 PM

It represents the Focal Length of the lens. It is indeed a fraction, but the slash sign is commonly omitted. Then f22 really means the size of the aperture is equivalent to the Focal length divided by 22 (f/22).
This is the first time I have submitted an answer. I hope to get it right, and anticipate you will get lots of answers! Keep up with the good job!

Editor's Note: Thanks for the note, Humberto! Yes, indeed, you got the answer right, and we did indeed receive lots of answers!

- Humberto L. 1/5/2006 2:15:46 PM

Focal Length

- Travis F. 1/5/2006 2:15:46 PM

It's the focal length divided by 22.
Tom Schmitt

- Tom S. 1/5/2006 2:15:46 PM

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Super Shooter
The actor who played cub news photographer-reporter Jimmy Olsen (in the four Superman movies made in the '70s and '80s) actually had film in his camera while acting in those movies. What is his name and what brand of camera did he use?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/6/2006 1:55:34 PM

Marc McClure played Jimmy Olsen and he used a Nikon.

- Alisa L. 1/6/2006 1:55:34 PM

Marc McClure and he used a Nikon Camera

- Anthony M. 1/6/2006 1:55:34 PM

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Monitoring Your Digital Images
In what year did the first digital camera with an LCD monitor hit the market? Strictly Optional: What was the manufacturer?

- Kerry D. 1/2/2006 10:05:54 AM

It was the Casio QV-11 with LCD monitor, which was released in 1995.

Editor's Note: That's right, Alisa - 1995 (answer to main question) and Casio (answer to the optional question)! But for the specific model, instructor Jeff Wignall's excellent book - The Joy of Digital Photography - refers to it as the QV-10. In any case, Alisa and everyone else, thanks for your fine input!

- Alisa L. 1/2/2006 10:05:54 AM

I'm going to guess the CASIO QV-10 in 1995

- John C. 1/2/2006 10:05:54 AM

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First Scanned Image
At the U.S. National Bureau of Standards, a picture of the young son of researcher Russell A. Kirsch reportedly was the first photograph to be digitally scanned. Kirsch used an early mechanical drum scanning device. What year did this occur?

- Kerry D. 12/27/2005 9:39:28 AM

I'm going to say it was scanned in 1957.

Hi Noella: That's it! Lots of good info on the Web regarding this event, although our original idea for the Trivia Question came from BetterPhoto instructor-author Jeff Wignall's excellent book: The Joy of Digital Photography That's also the title of Jeff's excellent online course here at BetterPhoto!

- Noella T. 12/27/2005 9:39:28 AM

1957

- Alton 12/27/2005 9:39:28 AM

1957

- Alan K. 12/27/2005 9:39:28 AM

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Original Nikon
In 1946, Nikon produced the "Model One", their first camera for retail sale. Which two camera brands did the Nikon engineers use as a basis for this new camera design?

- Scott M. 12/18/2005 2:42:24 PM

Leica and Contax

Editor's Note: You are absolutely right, Mark! The engineers agreed that these two cameras could use some improvement, according to the Nikon Historical Society. Work on the camera began in early 1946, with actual production on this first Nikon beginning in early 1948. "Many names were considered for the new camera," reports the society's Web site, "and some will sound familiar. In possible chronological order they considered: Bentax, Pentax, Pannet, Nicca, Nikka, Nikka, Nikoret, Niko and Nikkorette. ... Just before the final design was completed, the name was changed to 'Nikon'."

- Mark S. 12/18/2005 2:42:24 PM

Externally the Nikon 1 resembles the Zeiss Contax II using the same bayonet les mount. Internally the Nikon 1 is similar to the Leica IIIa especially the double-dial shutter mechanism. Also, I believe it was introduced in 1948, not 1946.

- 12/18/2005 2:42:24 PM

Leica and Contax

- Deirdre G. 12/18/2005 2:42:24 PM

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New Look at Legend's Work
An exhibit at a major U.S. art museum features the work of a 20th-century photographic icon that captures his mastery of the medium. The exhibit includes images of intimate portraits, still lifes, close-ups, and even a coffee can that features a picture of a snow scene. Who is this photographer?

- Kerry D. 12/9/2005 10:12:57 AM

A Adams

Editor's Note: Right you are, Pet! The exhibit also includes many of Ansel's landscape images. The collection can seen through January 4th, 2006, at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts.

- Pet 12/9/2005 10:12:57 AM

My first thought was Andy Warhol but through some research I found that it was Ansel Adams. There is an exhibit at the Gund Gallery until Jan 2006.
The site tates: "...early and late prints from the same negative, photographs of vastly different scale, and such rarities as a trio of folding screens, mural-sized prints, an early Sierra Club album, and even a Hills Brothers coffee can featuring an image of Yosemite blanketed in snow."

- Karen 12/9/2005 10:12:57 AM

Ansel Adams exhibit at Museum of Fine Arts Boston

- Larry S. 12/9/2005 10:12:57 AM

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Full Metal Photography
One of the stars in Stanley Kubrick's 1987 film, "Full Metal Jacket", recently published a photo-essay book about the making of this classic war movie. Who is the actor?

- Kerry D. 12/5/2005 8:23:36 AM

Matthew Modine.

Editor's Note: Right you are, Brenda! Matthew Modine is the author/photographer of the recently published Full Metal Jacket Diary. As a personal project, Modine served as the movie set's unofficial photojournalist by shooting hundreds of images and by writing numerous entries in a journal. In the film, Modine's character - Private Joker - was a combat correspondent.

- Brenda 12/5/2005 8:23:36 AM

Matthew Modine - the book is titled Full Metal Jacket Diary, I believe...

- C. A. 12/5/2005 8:23:36 AM

Matthew Modine

- Debbi Y. 12/5/2005 8:23:36 AM

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Ditigal Timeline
In what year was the first patent filed for a filmless electronic camera?
Extra Credit (optional): What is the name of the company that filed the patent?

- Kerry D. 11/28/2005 10:58:31 AM

Texas Instruments patented a filmless electronic camera in 1972.

- Howie N. 11/28/2005 10:58:31 AM

Texas Instruments first patented the filmless electronic camera in 1972

- Tony 11/28/2005 10:58:31 AM

1972: Texas Instruments files the first patent for a filmless electronic camera.

- Donna C. 11/28/2005 10:58:31 AM

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Movie Moon Shot
Amanda Peet plays a photographer in the recent film "A Lot Like Love", which also stars Ashton Kutcher. What is the name of the real-life photographer who actually shot the nighttime photo of Amanda and Ashton in their birthday suits with the moon behind them?

- - 11/21/2005 3:38:17 PM

Actor turned photographer Ben Glass. Editor's Note: Ben Glass is credited as the film's still photographer. But we received some other interesting - and conflicting - answers too. Thanks to all for your input!

- Dave M. 11/21/2005 3:38:17 PM

Demmie Todd was the still photograoher

- Brenda 11/21/2005 3:38:17 PM

Ben Glass

- Elise C. 11/21/2005 3:38:17 PM

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Undercover Shot
In a recent episode of a television show, the opening and closing scenes discussed how people can use photos for a variety of purposes. A photo (stored under a mattress) played a role in that particular episode. What TV show is it?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
11/14/2005 5:03:42 PM

The answer is "Desperate Housewives".

- Phyllis L. 11/14/2005 5:03:42 PM

Desperate Housewives. Susan's ex husband had a photo of her under Edie's mattress.

- Carolyn F. 11/14/2005 5:03:42 PM

Desperate Housewives

- Bill 11/14/2005 5:03:42 PM

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A Vertical Way of Thinking
What photographer is well-known for saying the following? "When is the best time to shoot a vertical? Right after you finish shooting the horizontal!"

- Kerry D. 11/7/2005 1:33:10 PM

I heard it from BP's very own Bryan Peterson.

Editor's Note: Right you are, Donna. In fact, Bryan has used this quote (excellent shooting advice, of course) in his books and BP classes ... plus, during his terrific presentation at the BetterPhoto Summit!

- Donna C. 11/7/2005 1:33:10 PM

Iv'e read that in a Bryan Peterson book. I think the one on Creative shooting...

- Jurgen B. 11/7/2005 1:33:10 PM

The only thing that came up in my search was a note to Canadian photographer, Allan Lefevbre"

Allen,
Very interesting notes on vertical images. Recently I got a comment on my photos from one of my photo friends. He thinks I should make more verticals and forwarded a word from a workshop instructor: When is the best time to shoot a vertical? It's right after shooting a horizontal.

Michiko Nishijima

Michiko, participated in a workshop run by two men, Freeman Patterson and Andre Gallant.

- Karen 11/7/2005 1:33:10 PM

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Focusing on the Digital Era
Who is credited with shooting the first digital image?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/7/2005 2:22:28 PM

Steven Sasson - in 1975 at a Kodak lab in Rochester, NY.

Editor's Note: Right you are, Robert! And engineer Sasson still works for the company. That first picture, by the way, was of a lab assistant, and according to the Associated Press: The camera was an "8-pound, toaster-size contraption, which captured a black-and-white image on a digital cassette tape at a resolution of .01 megapixel."

- Robert B. 10/7/2005 2:22:28 PM

Steven Sasson, an Eastman Kodak engineer in December 1975.

- Mimi K. 10/7/2005 2:22:28 PM

Steven Stasson.

- Shelly B. 10/7/2005 2:22:28 PM

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An Author's Vision
What author wrote the following? "Real vision is the ability to see the invisible".

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2005 7:47:48 AM

Jonathan Swift (1667-1745), author of Gulliver's Travels

- Dave M. 10/14/2005 7:47:48 AM

Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels

- Ariel B. 10/14/2005 7:47:48 AM

"Real vision is the ability to see the invisible".
Jonathan Swift

- Shelly V. 10/14/2005 7:47:48 AM

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Digital Timeline: Going Pro
Which company developed the first digital professional camera?

- Kerry D. 10/7/2005 2:01:21 PM

Kodak (and Nikon - I guess they should get credit also). Here is a quote from the History of Digital Cameras at:
http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/bldigitalcamera.htm
"In 1991, Kodak released the first professional digital camera system (DCS), aimed at photojournalists. It was a Nikon F-3 camera equipped by Kodak with a 1.3 megapixel sensor."
~Donna Cuic

- Donna C. 10/7/2005 2:01:21 PM

Kodak developed the first professional digital camera.

*1972 Texas Instruments patented a film-less electronic camera.
*1981 Sony released the Sony Mavica electronic still camera but it wasn't really a digital camera rather more of a video camera which took freeze frames, recorded them onto a mini-disk and which were later viewable via a video device.
*1991 Kodak released the first professional digital camera system (DCS) – a Nikon F-3 "equipped by" Kodak with a 1.3 megapixel sensor.

/Howie Nordström

- Howie N. 10/7/2005 2:01:21 PM

Kodak

- Marcelo A. 10/7/2005 2:01:21 PM

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Focusing on the Future
A famed photographer died long before the peak of the digital era, but had the following to say just before his death two decades ago:
"In the electronic age, I am sure that scanning techniques will be developed to achieve prints of extraordinary subtlety from the original negative scores. If I could return in twenty years or so I would hope to see astounding interpretations of my most expressive images. It is true no one could print my negatives as I did, but they might well get more out of them by electronic means. Image quality is not the product of a machine but of the person who directs the machine, and there are no limits to imagination and expression."
Who was this photographer?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/6/2005 3:18:57 PM

Ansel Adams

Editor's Note: Right you are, Penny! The quotation is from Ansel Adams' "An Autobiography", which was published in 1985, the year after his death. Thanks to BetterPhoto instructor/author Jeff Wignall for alerting us to this great quote!

- Penny S. 10/6/2005 3:18:57 PM

Ansel Adams

- Yvonne C. 10/6/2005 3:18:57 PM

Ansel Adams

- Debbi Y. 10/6/2005 3:18:57 PM

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Shooting Script
One of photography's biggest names committed suicide and left behind this note to friends: "My work is done. Why wait?" Who was this person?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/3/2005 2:45:03 PM

George Eastman (1854-1932) left this note and committed suicide after he retired from the company he founded - the Eastman Kodak Company.

- Robert B. 10/3/2005 2:45:03 PM

George Eastman

- carleen s. 10/3/2005 2:45:03 PM

George Eastman

- William F. 10/3/2005 2:45:03 PM

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The Match Game
Match up the following articles with the magazines in which they recently appeared:

Articles:
1) "Mothers of Invention"
2) "Hide in Plain Sight"
3) "Out with the New, In with the Old"

Magazines:
a) Shutterbug
b) Popular Photography
c) Outdoor Photographer

- Kerry D. 9/21/2005 6:43:01 PM

1-B
2-A
3-C

- Jay G. 9/21/2005 6:43:01 PM

Articles:
1) "Mothers of Invention" Popular Photography

2) "Hide in Plain Sight" Shutterbug

3) "Out with the New, In with the Old" Outdoor Photography

- PAM C. 9/21/2005 6:43:01 PM

#1 Mothers of Invention was in Popular Photography (B).

#2 Hide in Plain Sight was in Shutterbug (A).

#3 Out with the New, In with the Old was in Outdoor Photographer (C).

- Evelyn S. 9/21/2005 6:43:01 PM

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Look Who's Shooting
A famous model/actress has taken up photography in a serious way. As a result, she's now talking about having to "crank up the ISO" and "opening the aperture up" in low light. "A year ago," she recently told a camera magazine, "I didn't know what those words meant". Her favorite subject, by the way, is a certain rock guitarist. ... Now for the question: Who is this model/actress? Bonus question (but not officially part of the quiz): Who is the musician?

- Kerry D. 9/19/2005 8:09:53 AM

Carmen Electra ... and Dave Navarro

Editor's Note: Right you are, Debra! Carmen Electra is actually married to her favorite subject: former Jane's Addiction and Red Hot Chili Peppers musician Dave Navarro. This "Look Who's Shooting" feature appeared in the October 2005 issue of Popular Photography.

- Debra H. 9/19/2005 8:09:53 AM

The singer is Carmen Electra, and her desire to take up photography apparently came from viewing pictures in a friends picture album and realizing that she'd been so many places around the world and she didn't have any pictures to show for it or to remember the places by.

Jim Zimmerman

- Jim Z. 9/19/2005 8:09:53 AM

Carmen Electra. She likes shooting husband Dave Navaro.

- Mark R. 9/19/2005 8:09:53 AM

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The Detective and the Photographer
In this episode of the old TV show "Columbo", how does the detective figure out that the photographer (played by Dick Van Dyke) is the murderer?

- Marion V. 9/10/2005 9:09:20 PM

A famous photographer, Paul Galesco kills his wife and Colombo figures it out by the negatives in his darkroom.
Episode aired in 1974.

Editor's Note: Good answer, Penny. Also, an excellent answer from Todd W.!

- Penny S. 9/10/2005 9:09:20 PM

Negative Reaction

A perfect crime, but Columbo isn't satisfied. Why did Deschler cut up newsprint to make a ransom note, but there's no cut-up newspaper in his uncleaned hotel room? Why did Deschler go in to renew his driver's license test the day of the kidnapping? And why did the kidnapper toss away his first photo of the "kidnapped" wife because of poor shot-framing? The trail soon leads the lieutenant to Galesco (Van Dyke) but he needs to break the man's alibi. Columbo develops the photos from Deschler's camera and in an evidence room filled with cameras, claims that the clock in the shot disproves Galesco's alibi. Galesco points out that Columbo reversed the shot, and hands Columbo Deschler's camera and tells him to check the original negatives. Columbo points out that only the murderer could have known which camera was used, and Galesco has framed himself.

- Todd W. 9/10/2005 9:09:20 PM

Detective Columbo uses a photo that he reprinted only reversed it in the reproduction. The clock in the photo shows it to be 10:00 o'clock when in reality it is 2:00.

- Judy L. 9/10/2005 9:09:20 PM

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Detecting a Photo Op
In which episode of the TV show "Agatha Christie's Poirot" does the famous detective, known for using his "little grey cells", photograph Inspector Japp while the two are sightseeing in Brussels, Belgium?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
9/2/2005 9:10:27 AM

"The Chocolate Box"

- PAM C. 9/2/2005 9:10:27 AM

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Digital Debut
The first totally digital camera for consumers recorded images in black and white, and the photo resolution was 90,000 pixels (less than 1/10th megapixel). What year did this camera debut?

- Kerry D. 8/29/2005 8:38:39 AM

1990 - The Dycam Model 1/Logitech FotoMan

Editor's Note: Right you are, Robert! That was the first entirely digital camera for consumers ... according to the "Digital Technology Timeline" in the April issue of American Photo magazine - from BP instructor Jeff Wignall's book The Joy of Digital Photography. Some other key digital dates from the timeline:
1972: Texas Instruments files the first patent for a filmless electronic camera.
1975: Eastman Kodak produces an operation electronic sill-image camera, one of the first. It recorded images onto cassette videotape.

- Robert S. 8/29/2005 8:38:39 AM

1990

- Jodi B. 8/29/2005 8:38:39 AM

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BP on Talk Radio
On Friday, August 19th, two of BetterPhoto's luminaries appeared on a Web radio show. Who are they?

- Kerry D. 8/22/2005 3:47:23 PM

Jim Miotke and Kerry Drager

Editor's Note: Right you are, Susan! The two both appeared on Shutterbug Magazine Radio ... Incidentally, Jim is a regular contributor on the show, with live show time every Friday 12:00pm-1:00pm PST.

- Susan F. 8/22/2005 3:47:23 PM

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Steady As It Goes
The first lens to offer technology for reducing the effect of camera shake and vibration made its debut in what year? Extra credit (but not part of the quiz): Who was the manufacturer?

- Kerry D. 7/25/2005 7:06:23 PM

Canon introduced their EF 75-300 f/4-5.6 IS USM in 1995 featuring their "Image Stabilizer" technology.

Editor's note: Right you are, Robert! The question, by the way, came from Outdoor Photographer's "20 Years of Photo Innovation" - June 2005 issue.

- Robert B. 7/25/2005 7:06:23 PM

1995 Canon

- Tim B. 7/25/2005 7:06:23 PM

Image Stabilizer Canon EF 75-300mm ƒ/4-5.6 IS USM (1995)
The first lens to feature technology to reduce the impact of vibration and camera shake, the Canon EF 75-300mm ƒ/4-5.6 IS USM lens

- PAM C. 7/25/2005 7:06:23 PM

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First Photographed Eclipse
A solar eclipse was photographed for the first time in what year?

- Blanca A. 8/2/2005 8:59:42 AM

The final proof that the corona was actually the Sun’s upper atmosphere had to wait for the studies made during the eclipses of 1842 and of July 28, 1851, when it was photographed for the first time.

- Ellen D. 8/2/2005 8:59:42 AM

1851, July 28th

- Pat W. 8/2/2005 8:59:42 AM

The first useful daguerreotype of a total solar eclipse was made at the Konigsberg Observatory, on July 28, 1851.

- Christopher V. 8/2/2005 8:59:42 AM

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Legends of Photography
Last year marked the passing of many giants of photography, including Henri Cartier-Bresson, Carl Mydans, Francesco Scavullo, Eddie Adams, and Helmut Newton. Another photographic master also died in 2004, and in 1994, he was the subject of a special issue of an American camera magazine that looked back on his life and work. Who was he?

- Kerry D. 7/25/2005 7:16:41 PM

Richard Avedon - Still hard at work on an assignment in Texas when he died at age 81.

Editor's Note: Right you are, Robert! And American Photo was the magazine that published the special issue in 1994.

- Robert B. 7/25/2005 7:16:41 PM

Richard Avedon

- Ray T. 7/25/2005 7:16:41 PM

The Photographer was Richard Avedon,
The Magazine was American Photo
Ray Thibaut

- Ray T. 7/25/2005 7:16:41 PM

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Digital Timeline
The first D-SLR to be designed and made by a single camera manufacturer (as opposed to a joint venture) debuted in what year? Note: Feel free to guess the model, too, but it's not required.

- Kerry D. 7/25/2005 6:56:30 PM

Hi everyone!
Some excellent answers ... but unfortunately, none were correct. The answer: 1999, the year that Nikon's D1 debuted. This comes from BetterPhoto instructor Jeff Wignall's excellent book: The Joy of Digital Photography

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
7/25/2005 6:56:30 PM

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Exposure ... By the Numbers
This is a new take on Jim Miotke's previous quiz question: Two cameras are shooting from the same position, aimed at the same subject, and facing the same direction. One is set at f/4 and 1/125th sec., and the other is set at 1/15th sec. What would the latter camera's aperture (f/stop) need to be to produce identical exposures?

- Kerry D. 7/18/2005 12:56:09 PM

The Answer is f/11.
Ray Thibaut

- Ray T. 7/18/2005 12:56:09 PM

f/11.547

- Peter W. 7/18/2005 12:56:09 PM

f 11 at 1/15th

- jane m. 7/18/2005 12:56:09 PM

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Photoshop's Roots
What year did Adobe Photoshop 1.0 first reach the marketplace?

- Kerry D. 7/4/2005 1:00:37 PM

Adobe Photoshop 1.0, first reached the marketplace just over 15 years ago ... February 1990.

Editor's Note: Lots of correct answers! Here's more from Outdoor Photographer magazine's "20 Years of Photo Innovation" (June 2005 issue): "Thomas Knoll developed the roots of an image-editing technology while working on his Ph.D. ... Called Image Pro, the software was taken around to various companies in Silicon Valley until finally a company by the name of Adobe took interest ... Within less than 10 months of development, Adobe Photoshop 1.0 was released."

- Rebecca S. 7/4/2005 1:00:37 PM

1990

- Jason 7/4/2005 1:00:37 PM

Photoshop 1.0 was shipped in February 1990 after 10 months of development, by Knoll brothers.

- Denisa I. 7/4/2005 1:00:37 PM

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A Busy Legend
In recent years, this noted photographer has published books that range from a retrospective of his 50-year career to a collection of his famed '60s photos of the Beatles. Who is he?

- Kerry D. 7/4/2005 12:53:04 PM

Harry Benson

Editor's Note: The photographer from Scotland has a newly published book: Harry Benson's America.

- Douglas J. 7/4/2005 12:53:04 PM

Harry Benson: The Beatles book is "Once there was a way: Photographs of the Beatles."

- Ian L. 7/4/2005 12:53:04 PM

Harry Benson

- Jean L. 7/4/2005 12:53:04 PM

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River Runs Over It
Why does George toss Lucy's photographs into the river in A Room with a View?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
12/27/2004 8:31:21 AM

Because they were covered with blood.

- Eti S. 12/27/2004 8:31:21 AM

They were covered with blood.

- Eti S. 12/27/2004 8:31:21 AM

Lucy sees a fight and nearly faints, but George catches her. She tries to get away from him by asking him to find her photos. He catches up to her but suddenly throws away her photographs. Why? He tells her they were covered with blood, and he didn't want to tell her.

- Karen 12/27/2004 8:31:21 AM

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He's Still a Photo Hobbyist
What well-known comedic actor - and avid photo collector - said the following? "I've always enjoyed photography and started collecting ... I'm really not a good photographer. I'm like one of those people who, you know, they can't do something, so that makes them appreciate it all the more."

- Kerry D. 6/18/2005 4:44:33 PM

I think the answer is Ben Stiller. I just read an article about him (at least I think it was him) and that comment stood out to me. I definitely remember reading the article!

Editor's Note: Right you are, Eric! The article about Ben Stiller appears in the current issue (July/August 2005) of American Photo magazine.

- Eric L. 6/18/2005 4:44:33 PM

Ben Stiller

- Bill B. 6/18/2005 4:44:33 PM

Ben Stiller

- Edward V. 6/18/2005 4:44:33 PM

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Lightening Up
Carbon-fiber tripods have been called the first big advance in tripod design in many years. They are sturdy and lighter in weight than their aluminum counterparts. Of course, they're more expensive, too. What year did the carbon-fiber tripod debut?

- Kerry D. 6/13/2005 11:53:06 AM

Editor's Note: Some good answers to this question, but, alas, none were correct. Carbon-fiber tripods first became available in 1994 ... according to Outdoor Photographer's "20 Years of Innovation" feature in its June 2005 issue.

- Kerry D. 6/13/2005 11:53:06 AM

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Taking Shape
"Silhouette" refers to a dark figure or outline that's set against a light background. How did this word get its meaning?

- Kerry D. 6/6/2005 2:25:59 PM

'Silhouette' refers to a Frenchman Etienne de Silhouette, who lived in the 18th century and was in charge of finances. When he fell out of grace with Louis XV, he only had his hobby left ... placing self-made large 'shadow-statues' in his gardens. Since then, black profile-portraits are called 'silhouettes'.

Editor's Note: Great answers to this question! Here's another view ... this from Webster's New World College Dictionary: The term silhouette derives from "Etienne de Silhouette (1709-67), French minister of finance, in derogatory reference to his fiscal policies and to such amateur portraits by him, both regarded as inept."

- Jenny B. 6/6/2005 2:25:59 PM

The word "silhouette" was coined from a frugal French controller of finances named Etienne DeSilhouette. The term was used for 'cheap' or 'common,'

- David M. 6/6/2005 2:25:59 PM

It was named for Étienne de Silhouette (1709–67), who was the finance minister to Louis XV; it is said that he was so noted for his stinginess that cheap articles, including portraits, were designated à la Silhouette. Drawings in silhouette became very popular in Europe during the last decades of the 18th cent. and replaced miniature paintings at French and German courts. In England and America profile portraitists proliferated in the 19th cent. and numerous magazine and book illustrators, e.g., Arthur Rackham, employed silhouettes, or, as they were called in England, shades. Their popularity was fostered by the interest in Lavater's science of physiognomy and by the strong interest in classical art, especially in Greek black-figure vase painting. Silhouette drawings decreased in popularity after the invention of the daguerreotype.

Bibliography

See A. V. Carrick, A History of American Silhouettes (1968); N. Laliberté and A. Mogelon, Silhouettes, Shadows and Cutouts (1968); S. McKechnie, British Silhouette Artists and Their Work: 1760–1860 (1978).

- Hazel C. 6/6/2005 2:25:59 PM

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Primary Colors
For many years, Kodachrome was a staple of color slide photographers. But along came a super-saturated film that turned into a favorite of pros and serious amateurs who shoot scenics. Two-part question: 1) What film is this? 2) What year did it debut?

- Kerry D. 5/30/2005 10:42:10 AM

Fujichrome Velvia 50 was launched in 1990.

- Michael M. 5/30/2005 10:42:10 AM

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20 Years in Print
With the current issue (June 2005), Outdoor Photographer celebrates its 20th anniversary. Who was OP's first columnist when the magazine debuted in June 1985?

- Kerry D. 5/20/2005 3:33:17 PM

The answer is George Lepp, who still writes the "Tech Tips" column.

Editor's note: Galen Rowell was the first issue's featured photographer - with an interview and portfolio. But he began writing his Photo Adventure column later.

- Lorie G. 5/20/2005 3:33:17 PM

George Lepp

- Faye W. 5/20/2005 3:33:17 PM

George Lepp

- Michael D. 5/20/2005 3:33:17 PM

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Peaks and Pics
What actor played a National Geographic photographer in the 2000 mountain climbing movie "Vertical Limit"?

- Dawn 5/6/2005 2:37:32 PM

Chris O'Donnell, who played climber-photographer Peter Garrett

- Tonya B. 5/6/2005 2:37:32 PM

Chris O'Donnell

- Connie C. 5/6/2005 2:37:32 PM

Chris O'Donnell

- David M. 5/6/2005 2:37:32 PM

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Unsold Life Saver Turned Photo Filter
Some inventors are famous for one or two of their creations, but often not the inventions they are most proud of. This inventor quit Harvard University when he was 19 years old to invent his first of hundreds of patented inventions. This invention was a safety feature to be used on automobiles to save drivers from headlight glare. It was not picked up by car manufacturers, but it has been used by photographers all over the world as a filter to remove glare from unwanted reflected light. Who is this inventor?

- Josh H. 5/3/2005 11:57:24 AM

Edwin Land (1909-1991) - polarizing filter

Editor's Note: Another Land invention - the Polaroid Land camera - debuted in November 1948, according to Polaroid's Web site, and sold for $89.75. In its first full year - 1949 - sales exceeded $5 million and Ansel Adams was hired as a consultant.

- William K. 5/3/2005 11:57:24 AM

Edwin Land

- Connie C. 5/3/2005 11:57:24 AM

His name was Edwin Land. He was also the founder of Polaroid and the inventor of instant photography.

- Gianna S. 5/3/2005 11:57:24 AM

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20th Century Icon
One of the most influential figures in photography had a long career, including as a fashion photographer in the 1920s and '30s, and later as director of photography at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. He also was a brother-in-law of poet Carl Sandburg. Who was he?

- Kerry D. 5/2/2005 11:15:15 AM

Edward Steichen (1879-1973)

- sy m. 5/2/2005 11:15:15 AM

Edward Steichen

- Connie C. 5/2/2005 11:15:15 AM

Edward Steichen

- David M. 5/2/2005 11:15:15 AM

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Digital Vs. Film
What was the first year that the number of digital cameras purchased exceeded the number of conventional cameras sold?

- Kerry D. 4/4/2005 8:50:58 AM

In 2003, more digital cameras were sold.

Editor's Note: Lots of good guesses, but Hannah's is the first correct answer! By the way, the March/April 2005 issue of American Photo magazine includes the Digital Technology Timeline 1947-2005, by BetterPhoto instructor Jeff Wignall. The timeline comes from his excellent book: The Joy of Digital Photography. Also, check out Jeff's online course right here at BetterPhoto!

- Hannah V. 4/4/2005 8:50:58 AM

2003

- Donald B. 4/4/2005 8:50:58 AM

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Who Said ...?
What legendary photographer said: Photography provides "absolute unqualified objectivity"?

- CHUCK T. 4/9/2005 7:23:18 PM

Paul Strand (1890-1976)

Editor's Note: Kudos go to Kathy Z. and Cate G. for providing additional information on Paul Strand. Just click on the link below to see their interesting answers!

- Elise C. 4/9/2005 7:23:18 PM

Paul Strand

- Kim M. 4/9/2005 7:23:18 PM

Paul Strand

- Alejandra R. 4/9/2005 7:23:18 PM

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Photographer's Day Job
What noted outdoor/adventure photographer got his start while climbing and photographing on weekends and running an automotive business on weekdays? (Note: He turned full time to freelance photography and writing in 1972.)

- Kerry D. 4/4/2005 8:35:18 AM

The one and only, late, lamented Galen Rowell (1940-2002).

- Larry R. 4/4/2005 8:35:18 AM

Galen Rowell

- Karen 4/4/2005 8:35:18 AM

Galen Rowell

- Cathy A. 4/4/2005 8:35:18 AM

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First Digital Camera Invented
The first electronic still camera to record digital images on memory cards debuted in what year? (Note regarding this question on the first digital camera invented: Although the first person to provide the correct year "wins" this quiz, feel free to also guess the manufacturer of this camera.)

- Kerry D. 4/4/2005 8:47:27 AM

1988 - Manufacturer: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Camera model: The DS-1P. Memory card: internal 16mb card developed by Toshiba

Editor's Note: Lots of great answers for this intriguing (and challenging) question ... but Chris's is the first and best answer! By the way, check out the March/April 2005 issue of American Photo magazine ... it includes the Digital Technology Timeline 1947-2005, by BetterPhoto instructor Jeff Wignall. The timeline comes from his excellent book: The Joy of Digital Photography. Also, check out Jeff's online course right here at BetterPhoto!

- Jay S. 4/4/2005 8:47:27 AM

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Facts about Ansel Adams - His First Camera
In 1916, Ansel Adams received a gift from his parents that helped launch his legendary career. What kind of camera was it?

- Kerry D. 3/28/2005 8:25:16 AM

Kodak Box Brownie

Editor's Note: Ansel Adams received the Brownie Camera during his family's visit to Yosemite, according to Kodak. "After a few minutes of simple instructions," he once said, "my camera and I went off to explore."

- Michelle Lea G. 3/28/2005 8:25:16 AM

Ansel Adams' first camera, given to him by his parents as a birthday present, was a Kodak Brownie.

- Fritz G. 3/28/2005 8:25:16 AM

Kodak Box Brownie

- LOIS ANN P. 3/28/2005 8:25:16 AM

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Photographic Legend
A number of legendary photographers died in 2004. One of them, a longtime Life magazine shooter, once reportedly told an editor: "Whenever I was on assignment, I was always aware of history. I was thinking about it, and I was seeing it. That's what I did in my photographs." Who said that?

- Kerry D. 3/21/2005 9:32:07 AM

Carl Mydans, who photographed events from the Great Depression to wars, and was a charter member of the Life magazine staff. He was 97.

- Orin E. 3/21/2005 9:32:07 AM

Carl Mydans

- Eric 3/21/2005 9:32:07 AM

Carl Mydans

- Connie C. 3/21/2005 9:32:07 AM

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Annie's Images
Annie Liebowitz is most famous for ... what?

- Kerry D. 3/14/2005 9:14:24 AM

Her portraits of celebrities.

- Bernie N. 3/14/2005 9:14:24 AM

Celebrity portraits

- Philip D. 3/14/2005 9:14:24 AM

Taking photographs of celebrities

- Connie C. 3/14/2005 9:14:24 AM

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His Camera Is Smokin'!
Here's another question on "Smoke": What model of camera did Harvey Keitel's character use in that film?

- Ossain R. 3/3/2005 3:23:04 PM

This question was indeed a tough one. And, although we received some excellent guesses, there were no correct ones. Here's the answer: Canon AE-1. Thanks to everyone who took part!
Kerry Drager, BetterPhoto.com

- Kerry D. 3/3/2005 3:23:04 PM

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Behind the Camera
In the 1995 movie "Smoke," what sort of photography is done by Auggie Wren (played by Harvey Keitel)?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
2/28/2005 9:54:30 AM

Street Photography - took a single picture every day, at the same time, of his store.

- David M. 2/28/2005 9:54:30 AM

He takes the same picture of his store everyday and submits it to the newspaper for a Christmas photo contest.

- Brenda 2/28/2005 9:54:30 AM

One site calls it "photoblog". Harvey Keitel's character takes a picture of his Brooklyn cigar store every morning, a routine he has followed for 11 years. The resulting albums, which he mostly keeps to himself, form a photographic record of small day-to-day differences over time.

- Karen 2/28/2005 9:54:30 AM

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Early Composite
After he died in 1926, which celebrity was portrayed as ascending up to heaven in a composite photograph?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Actor Rudolph Valentino (1895-1926)

- Ron 10/14/2000

Rudolph Valentino

- Douglas J. 10/14/2000

Rudolph Valentino

- Andrew C. 10/14/2000

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Photography to the Rescue!
In which movie does Sandra Bullock turn to photography to make a little extra dough?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
2/14/2005 11:51:29 AM

"Hope Floats"

- Karen 2/14/2005 11:51:29 AM

Hope Floats

- Mary S. 2/14/2005 11:51:29 AM

Hope Floats

- Kelli C. 2/14/2005 11:51:29 AM

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Cush-lash
In Jerry Maguire, the football star Cush complains that he has "Cush-lash" after seeing a picture of himself where?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

On the big advertising TV billboard in Times Square.

Editor's Note: Here's more from BetterPhoto member Michelle Guinn: "He did not see himself anywhere. His brother told him he was on the big TV. Cush was sitting on the couch playing his guitar."

- Rajeshkumar D. 10/14/2000

Cush sees his picture on the big t.v. in his suite overlooking Times Square.

- Lewis B. 10/14/2000

he did not see himself anywhere. his brother told him he was on the big tv cush was sitting on the couch playing his guitar.

- Michelle Lea G. 10/14/2000

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Cost of Photography
In David Mamet's The Spanish Prisoner, how much does Steve Martin offer Campbell Scott for his camera?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
12/27/2004 8:38:25 AM

$1000 dollars

- Douglas J. 12/27/2004 8:38:25 AM

A thousand dollars

- Henk B. 12/27/2004 8:38:25 AM

I believe he offers $1000 for the camera.

- Sreedevi K. 12/27/2004 8:38:25 AM

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Life on the Edge
Who plays the photographer in the movie The Edge?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
12/27/2004 8:36:29 AM

Alex Baldwin played the photographer named Bob Green

- Ken W. 12/27/2004 8:36:29 AM

Alec Baldwin played Robert Green the fashion photographer.

- Heidi H. 12/27/2004 8:36:29 AM

Alec Baldwin

- Joan B. 12/27/2004 8:36:29 AM

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Cool Cameras
What movie actress recently said the following in a magazine interview? "There is something about that particular piece of hardware - a camera - that's kind of cool. It sort of instantly makes you the coolest person in the room."

- Kerry D. 1/16/2005 4:30:21 PM

Julia Roberts. I believe the magazine was American Photo.

Editor's Note: Yes, Ken, you are absolutely correct! Julia was talking about her photographer roles in 1998's "Stepmom" and her new movie, "Closer." Her interview in the current issue (January/February 2005) of American Photo also included this excellent (and fun) reply to a question about film vs. still photography: "I feel so stupid when I'm being photographed. And I feel only slightly stupid when I'm being filmed."

- Kenneth C. 1/16/2005 4:30:21 PM

Julia Roberts, American Photo Jan/Feb 2005

- Glenn W. 1/16/2005 4:30:21 PM

Julia Roberts

- Josh H. 1/16/2005 4:30:21 PM

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Early Camera Feature
What was the camera that first offered a view of the lens aperture in the viewfinder?

- John S. 1/3/2005 8:55:56 AM

This was definitely a challenging question this week ... and the answer is the Minolta SRT 202.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/3/2005 8:55:56 AM

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Picture Potential
The term "photo op" was coined in 1976 to describe ... what?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
11/29/2004 9:43:53 AM

A photographic opportunity.

Editor's note: Thanks, Randy, that is definitely correct! And here is more from BP member Rumiana Koynova-Tenchova:

A photo op, short for photo opportunity, is a planned event that results in a memorable and effective photograph. It is usually thought to be related to politicians who do things such as caress kids, plant trees, or visit senior citizens centers, often during election campaigns, with the intent of photographers catching the events, thus generating good publicity.

- Randy K. 11/29/2004 9:43:53 AM

Photo opportunity

- Marcia M. 11/29/2004 9:43:53 AM

Photograph Opportunity

- Charles O. 11/29/2004 9:43:53 AM

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Picturing Philadelphia
In 1940 film The Philadelphia Story, who plays the photographer?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
12/27/2004 8:28:25 AM

It was Ruth Hussey.

- Mariusz S. 12/27/2004 8:28:25 AM

Ruth Hussey played Liz Imbrie - The Photographer

- Ana Karina H. 12/27/2004 8:28:25 AM

Ruth Hussey who acts the role of Elizabeth Imbrie

- Collin C. 12/27/2004 8:28:25 AM

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Polaroid Factoid
In which movie does Meg Ryan get suspicious when she notices a friend not appearing in a Polaroid shot?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
11/29/2004 9:47:27 AM

City of Angels.

- Gianna S. 11/29/2004 9:47:27 AM

City of Angels.

- Cheryl D. 11/29/2004 9:47:27 AM

"City of Angels"

Christa.

- Christa 11/29/2004 9:47:27 AM

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Shooting Script
In which movie was Julia Roberts a professional photographer?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
11/14/2004 10:19:55 PM

"Stepmom"

Editor's Note: Actually, two answers are correct! Julia Roberts played a photographer in "Stepmom" (1998) and in her new movie, "Closer".

- Kim M. 11/14/2004 10:19:55 PM

Closer

- Brenda 11/14/2004 10:19:55 PM

THe film where Julia Roberts plays a photographer is (I think) "Closer".

- Eric d. 11/14/2004 10:19:55 PM

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On the Lookout
In which movie does an injured photographer get into the habit of spying on his neighbors?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
11/14/2004 10:10:08 PM

"Rear Window" ...

Editor's note: This 1954 Alfred Hitchcock classic starred James Stewart as a wheelchair-bound photographer (broken leg); Grace Kelly appeared as his girlfriend. A 1998 TV remake starred Christopher Reeve, who played a paralyzed architect.

- joy 11/14/2004 10:10:08 PM

Alfred Hitchcock's "Rear Window", starring James Stewart.

- Mary B. 11/14/2004 10:10:08 PM

Rear Window

- Barbara J. 11/14/2004 10:10:08 PM

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The First Flash
Which chemical element was first used to create a flash in the early days of photography?

- Blanca A. 11/21/2004 6:23:16 AM

Magnesium

- Varunkumar V. 11/21/2004 6:23:16 AM

Magnesium Powder.

William Crookes, editor of the Photographic News (October 1859) was responding to a query put to him on how to light some caves: "A...brilliant light...can be obtained by burning....magnesium in oxygen. A piece of magnesium wire held by one end in the hand, may be lighted at the other extremity by holding it to a candle... It then burns away of its own accord evolving a light insupportably brilliant to the unprotected eye...." That same year Professor Robert Bunsen (of Bunsen burner fame) was also advocating the use of magnesium.

But:

The first portrait using magnesium was taken by Alfred Brothers of Manchester (22 February 1864); some of the results of his experiments may be found in the Manchester Museum of Science and Technology.

- Joe B. 11/21/2004 6:23:16 AM

The first flash bulb was designed by Chauffour in 1893 for use by underwater photographer Louis Boutan. It contained magnesium inside a glass bulb filled with oxygen under pressure.

In my grandfather's house there was some magnesium. He used it to take photos with "flash". I had fun burning it when I was a child!!
Alejandra

- Alejandra R. 11/21/2004 6:23:16 AM

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Getting Good and Close
One of the most notable pieces of photographic advice is this one: "If your pictures aren't good enough, you're not close enough." That quote is attributed to what legendary photographer?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
11/22/2004 5:33:38 PM

Robert Capa
(In fact, he was talking about war photography, but it seems to apply to most other photography as well.)

- Rumiana K. 11/22/2004 5:33:38 PM

Robert Capa

- Merrell W. 11/22/2004 5:33:38 PM

War Photographer opens with combat photographer Robert Capa

- Richard K. 11/22/2004 5:33:38 PM

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Picture Bride
In the movie Picture Bridge, what is the deception that puts the story into motion?

- Kerry D. 11/8/2004 8:23:12 AM

A mail-order bride only has a picture of her husband-to-be and, when she gets to him, finds that he is much older then the picture represents.

- James C. 11/8/2004 8:23:12 AM

A young Japanese girl becomes a picture bride for a Hawaiian sugarcane worker following her parents death. She arrives in Hawaii to discover her fiance has deceived her with an old photo. She fulfils her duty, eventually admitting her own deception and learns to accept her life.

- Brenda 11/8/2004 8:23:12 AM

In 1918, Asian women came to Hawaii as mail-order brides under the pretext of being married to young and wealthy farm owners. Exchanging letters and photos, this is what they believe until they get there and find that their husbands are neither young nor wealthy.

- Karen 11/8/2004 8:23:12 AM

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A Very Big Subject
In what movie does Gerard Depardieu talk about shooting elephants with a camera?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
11/3/2004 12:06:32 PM

"Green Card"

- Gillian L. 11/3/2004 12:06:32 PM

Green Card

- Phyllis S. 11/3/2004 12:06:32 PM

Green Card

- Debbi M. 11/3/2004 12:06:32 PM

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Career Switch
Here's a two-part question: 1) What was Ansel Adams' first career? 2) What important photographer influenced Ansel to switch gears and go into photography full-time?

- Kerry D. 11/1/2004 3:46:39 PM

1) He trained to become a concert pianist. 2) Paul Strand

- Randy K. 11/1/2004 3:46:39 PM

His first career was as a pianist (musician) then he got friendly with Paul Strand in 1930 who influenced him into photography!

- Karen 11/1/2004 3:46:39 PM

Ansel Adams' first career was as a concert pianist. He was influenced by Paul Strand to go into photography full time.

- joy 11/1/2004 3:46:39 PM

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Word Play
The word photography is derived from words meaning what?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The word photography comes from two Greek words - photos (means "the light") and graphics (means "to draw").

- Mariusz S. 10/14/2000

To write or draw with light.

- Carolin J. 10/14/2000

"Photography" is derived from the Greek words photos ("light") and graphein ("to draw") The word was first used by the scientist Sir John F.W. Herschel in 1839. It is a method of recording images by the action of light, or related radiation, on a sensitive material. ROLAND R. ROLDAN from the PHILIPPINES

- ROLAND R. 10/14/2000

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What Year Was It?
When was Robert Kennedy Moments After He Was Shot, by Bill Eppridge, photographed?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

It was shot in 1968.

- Kimberly N. 10/14/2000

1968

- Catherine G. 10/14/2000

June 5, 1968

- James C. 10/14/2000

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Where the Heart Is II
What is the subject of the main character Novalee's prize-winning photo in Where the Heart Is?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

House destroyed by a tornado with her daughter standing and holding a small tree : )

Editor's note: BetterPhoto member Hillary points out that there are actually two answers to this question, with the other being: "In the book, the subject is a little boy running naked through the woods at sunrise."

- Kasia E. 10/14/2000

It is a photo of her daughter walking through the rubble left after a tornado took her home.

- Kim M. 10/14/2000

A Home.

- Karen 10/14/2000

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Tale of Two Men
Who are the two men photographed on the cover of American Photography: A Century of Images?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

With all that flash equipment, I'm thinking one of them is O. Winston Link, famous for documenting the last operating steam engine locomotives - often at night. Don't know who the other gentleman is, a collaborator/assistant?

Editor's note: Yes, Jon, you are right! Link (1914-2001) appears on the left, next to one of his assistants, George Thom.

- Jon C. 10/14/2000

O. Winston Link and his assistant George Thom

- Alejandra R. 10/14/2000

They are Ogle Winston Link and his assistant George Thom, working with night flash equipment on the The Norfolk and Western train number 792.

- Janet D. 10/14/2000

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Movie Time
What brand of camera does Richard Dreyfuss use to photograph Madeleine Stowe during the first night of his Stakeout with Emilio Estevez?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The camera was a Pentax LX.

- Ossain R. 10/14/2000

Richard Dreyfuss used a PENTAX in STAKEOUT

- Gary P. 10/14/2000

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Foresight
The final two issues of Alfred Stieglitz's Camera Work were dedicated to the work of which up-and-coming photographer?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Paul Strand, at age twenty-five, caught the spirit in 1915 when he produced his first abstract photographs. In 1917 the final issue of Camera Work was devoted to Strand's work.

- Richard K. 10/14/2000

Paul Strand

- Andrew C. 10/14/2000

Paul Strand.

- Sufyan F. 10/14/2000

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The Immortal Bard
When art critic Sadakichi Hartmann criticized photographer Edward Steichen (1879-1973) with the phrase, "To paint or to photograph - that is the question," what play was he parodying?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Shakespeare's "Hamlet," with the famous line: "To be or not to be ..."

- Sufyan F. 10/14/2000

Shakespeare play called Hamlet.

- Renee D. 10/14/2000

Hamlet by Shakespeare

- Kristine B. 10/14/2000

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Movie Who-Done-It
There's an Italian film where a photographer discovers a body accidentally when enlarging a photo. What are the names of the film and its director?

- Blanca A. 5/23/2004 1:57:43 AM

"Blowup," directed by Michelangelo Antonioni in 1996 with Vanessa Redgrave.

- Robert B. 5/23/2004 1:57:43 AM

The film is "Blowup" (1966); director: Michelangelo Antonioni.

- Rumiana K. 5/23/2004 1:57:43 AM

Movie : "Blowup" - Director: Michelangelo Antonioni

- Luc A. 5/23/2004 1:57:43 AM

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First Cover
What was the subject of Margaret Bourke-White's photo that made the first Life magazine cover in 1936?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The photo is of Fort Peck Dam in Montana.

- Gadi E. 10/14/2000

The photo is of Fort Peck Dam. Read all about it here
http://www.hq.usace.army.mil/history/vignettes/Vignette_66.htm

- Gadi E. 10/14/2000

She is one of the first four photgraphers assigned to the magazine. Her photograph of Fort Peck Dam graces the cover of the first issue.

- David F. 10/14/2000

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Early Photography
The Calotype process - discovered by William Henry Fox Talbot in the 1800s - has been called a "direct forerunner of modern photography" because it involved both a negative and a positive. What does the word itself (Calotype) mean?

- Kerry D. 8/24/2004 4:32:06 PM

The word Calotype comes from kalos, which is Greek for beautiful and typos which means type. Very interesting process. Thank you for a great trivia question.

- Janet D. 8/24/2004 4:32:06 PM

Beautiful type

- Randy K. 8/24/2004 4:32:06 PM

Calotype is from the greek word Kalos meaning beautiful. Talbot's process was originally called Talbotype and was the earliest process that used a paper negative to produce several prints, similar to what became modern photography. Strictly speaking, the term calotype applied only to the negative produced by this process.

- Andrew C. 8/24/2004 4:32:06 PM

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Look Behind You!
In the movie "Midnight Run", what common photographic mistake was made?

- Bob C. 8/20/2004 2:54:16 PM

Excellent responses to this question (especially from BetterPhoto member Karen, who did some nice research at the IMDB.com Web site). But, while there were quite a few continuity problems and other mistakes in the film, here's the photograph-related answer that we were looking for (from member Bob Cammarata, who wrote the question):

Bounty hunter Marvin Dorfler takes a polaroid of "The Duke" with the daily paper to prove to the mob that he has him in his custody. What he doesn't notice is that the name of the hotel - at which he is being held for ransom - is written on a towel hanging in the background.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
8/20/2004 2:54:16 PM

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Mistakes Happen
A 1/2 million dollar camera lens was recently ruined by exposure to candy ... what happened?

- Kerry D. 8/5/2004 12:22:29 PM

Definitely not an easy question! But here's the answer: The remake of the film "Charlie And The Chocolate Factory" was thrown into chaos in July when a worker dropped a $540,000 camera lens in a vat of chocolate, according to the Internet Movie Data Base (imdb.com). The clumsy technician had failed to properly secure his wire-held camera, the movie site reported, and watched aghast as it plunged into the three-foot-deep tank. A source on the English set told imdb.com: "When the camera fell it was like a slap-stick scene straight from the movie. ... The production team didn't know whether to laugh or cry." Tim Burton directs and Johnny Depp stars in the film, which is due out in 2005.

- Kerry D. 8/5/2004 12:22:29 PM

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Henri Cartier-Bresson, 1908-2004
What was the brand name of the camera that the great French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson used, and what special thing did he do to it?

- CHUCK T. 8/5/2004 8:13:37 PM

The brand name was Leica. He taped over the silver parts with black tape and kept it covered with a handkerchief.

- Phillip R. 8/5/2004 8:13:37 PM

His camera brand: Leica. Special things: he taped the silver part to make the camera unobstrusive, and he only use 50mm lens.

- Trisnadi S. 8/5/2004 8:13:37 PM

Henri Cartier-Bresson used a Leica camera. Cartier-Bresson wanted to make his camera as inconspicuous as possible, so he hid under it handkerchief in public. He put black tape on the shiny parts of the camera and even replaced the lens cap with jar lids so he could make his camera hidden to his subjects.

- Philip 8/5/2004 8:13:37 PM

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Word Problem
If two cameras were shooting from the same position, pointed at the same subject, facing the same direction, one at f8 and 1/500 and the other at f16, what would the latter camera's shutter speed need to be to produce identical exposures?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

F16: 1/125

Editor's Note: The difference between f/8 and f/16 is actually TWO stops - with f/11 in between. So, for an identical exposure (assuming all contributing factors are equal), going two stops in ONE direction (i.e., stopping down the aperture from f/8 to f/16) requires a two-stop adjustment in the OTHER direction (in this case, reducing the shutter speed from 1/500th sec. to 1/125th).

- Karen P. 10/14/2000

1/125 sec.
Thank you,
~Steve Solomon

- Steve S. 10/14/2000

1/125

- Collin C. 10/14/2000

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Smile
Which 1960s' American TV show used the word "smile" in its signature slogan?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Candid Camera (as in "Smile, you're on Candid Camera!"), hosted by Allen Funt

- Barbara R. 10/14/2000

Candid Camera.

- GLENN R. 10/14/2000

"SMILE" you're on CANDID CAMERA

- Joan C. 10/14/2000

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Great Shots, Radical Views
Who was the Italian photgrapher who lived in Mexico most of her life and was known not only by her excellent photos but also by her radical views?

- Blanca A. 7/17/2004 8:55:01 AM

Tina Modotti (1896-1942), who studied under Edward Weston

- Dorothy D. 7/17/2004 8:55:01 AM

Tina Modotti

- Cynthia W. 7/17/2004 8:55:01 AM

The photographer is Tina Modotti. She was involved with social and political issues in Mexico in the '30s.

- Ryan 7/17/2004 8:55:01 AM

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A Special Chaplin Effect
There's a scene in Charlie Chaplin's film "The Kid" in which his famous hat "jumps back" to his head, after he throws it. How did he create that effect?

- Blanca A. 5/11/2004 1:15:43 AM

It's simple: Just run the film of that particular shot backward during editing.

- Michael 5/11/2004 1:15:43 AM

The effect was created by reversing a film clip of the hat being thrown.

Sandra Simpson

- Sandra S. 5/11/2004 1:15:43 AM

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Unbearable
Who played the photographer in the film The Unbearable Lightness of Being?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

It was Juliette Binoche, who played Tereza, a waitress who became a photographer, in "The Unbearable, etc." Forget Daniel Day-Lewis, who played her lover! (Note: In addition, Anne Lonnberg played a Swiss photographer in the film, and Lena Olin as Sabina put a camera to use, too!)

- Mary R. 10/14/2000

Anne Lonnberg

- Maria Socorro A. 10/14/2000

Anne Lonnberg

- David V. 10/14/2000

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An Artistic Duo
Famed painter Georgia O'Keeffe was married to an influential photographer and art impresario. Who was he?

- Kerry D. 6/28/2004 1:21:00 PM

Alfred Stieglitz

- Denise P. 6/28/2004 1:21:00 PM

Alfred Stieglitz, the well-known New York photographer and proponent of modernism, exhibited some of Georgia O'Keeffe's earliest abstract drawings. In 1924 O'Keeffe and Stieglitz were married.

- Mary R. 6/28/2004 1:21:00 PM

Alfred Stieglitz

- Henk B. 6/28/2004 1:21:00 PM

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Crooner with Camera
Which famous singer once photographed a boxer and had the image published on the cover of Life magazine? What are the details?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Frank Sinatra's photograph of Joe Frazier pounding Mohammad Ali appeared on the cover of Life magazine on March 19, 1971. He was himself a subject of three other Life magazine covers.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Slave Labor
In the photographic industry, what are people usually referring to when they mention using a "slave"?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

A slave is a flash light unit that is triggered by another flash - whether it be from another camera flash, external flash or even an infrared transmitter. Of course, some assistants can become slaves too, but not assistants of nice photographers (tongue in cheek).

- Amanda R. 10/14/2000

A device triggered by another device (master).

- Henk B. 10/14/2000

A slave is a second flash unit not connected in any way electrically to your camera however it has a sensor that allows it to fire when your primary flash unit goes off. The name is used regularly in underwater photography. In this case although not connected by a cable to the camera it is usually connected by an arm to the camera tray. This set up provides less places for leaks to arise and hence a reduction in the possibility of camera flood.

- Rick L. 10/14/2000

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Canada's Prime Photographer
Which prime minister of Canada had a wife who became a professional photographer? (Please give his name and her name.)

- Marilyn C. 6/12/2004 7:50:24 PM

The Prime Minister was Pierre Elliott Trudeau and his wife was Margaret Sinclair Trudeau. See became a photographer in 1974.

- Matt S. 6/12/2004 7:50:24 PM

I think that would be the wife of Pierre Elliott Trudeau, Margaret Trudeau (nee Sinclair).

- Wendy S. 6/12/2004 7:50:24 PM

The prime minister was Pierre Trudeau and his wife who became a photographer was Margruette or Margaret Trudeau

- Michael 6/12/2004 7:50:24 PM

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Photographer First Lady
Which U.S. First Lady was a professional photographer before becoming the First Lady?

- Jose A. 5/31/2004 11:04:52 PM

Jackie O - specifically, Jacqueline Bouvier ... later, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

- Lorriann H. 5/31/2004 11:04:52 PM

Before she married John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Bouvier was a newspaper photographer.

- Mary R. 5/31/2004 11:04:52 PM

Jackie Kennedy

- Laura S. 5/31/2004 11:04:52 PM

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Where Is He From?
Fill in the blank: Pecker is the story of a young photographer from ______ who gets discovered by the New York art scene.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Baltimore (more specifically, the Hampden area of Baltimore)

- Blanca A. 10/14/2000

Baltimore

- David F. 10/14/2000

Baltimore, MD - USA

- Constance R. 10/14/2000

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Cameras and Pens
Which author said the following: "The camera need not be a cold mechanical device. Like a pen, it is as good as the [person] who uses it. It can be the expression of mind and heart."

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

John Steinbeck in reference to photojournalist Robert Capa.

- Kelly P. 10/14/2000

John Steinbeck

- Catherine G. 10/14/2000

John Steinbeck in the preface to Robert Capa's "Images of War", New York 1964.

John Steinbeck (1902-1968) was an American novelist, story writer, playwright, and essayist and received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1962. His novel THE GRAPES OF WRATH (1939) is considered a 20th century classic.

- Archana P. 10/14/2000

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It's a Living
What magazine does Clint Eastwood's character work for in The Bridges of Madison County?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Robert Kincaid is on assignment from National Geographic magazine to photograph the bridges of Madison County.

- Janet D. 10/14/2000

National Geographic

- gilbert l. 10/14/2000

National Geographic

- Chris H. 10/14/2000

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Che Guevara Photo
There's an ultra-famous photo of Che Guevara, where he's looking at the horizon wearing his famous beret with a star, reproduced in cards, T-shirts, and what-not. Who took the shot?

- Blanca A. 4/23/2004 5:48:16 PM

Alberto Korda was the Cuban photographer who took the famous photograph of Che Guevara. The Maryland Institute of Art called Korda's photo "the most famous photograph in the world and a symbol of the 20th century." Korda snapped the picture of the revolutionary leader in March 1960 at a funeral service for 136 Cubans killed during a counterrevolutionary terrorist attack. Guevara briefly stepped forward onto the memorial service podium ... and in that split second, Korda captured this historic image. The photograph remained unpublished until some 7 years later, when the artist gave a print to an Italian journalist. Upon Che's death, the print was published as a poster in Italy ... and from then on the image quickly made its way around the world, appearing on murals, flags, buttons, and album covers. Despite the countless ways in which Korda's image was marketed he never received a single penny in royalties. Despite the countless ways in which Korda's image was marketed, he never received a single penny in royalties.

- Enrique G. 4/23/2004 5:48:16 PM

Taken in 1960 by the Cuban photographer Alberto Diaz Gutierrez, who goes by the professional name Alberto Korda, the photo of Guevara - with long curly hair and tilted beret - became a revolutionary icon. The photo of the dark, intense gaze Che, whose real name was Ernesto Guevara, was taken March 5, 1960, at a memorial service for 136 Cubans killed during a counterrevolutionary terrorist attack. The Argentine-born Guevara was a key figure in Cuba's 1959 revolution, alongside Fidel Castro. The photographer Alberto Korda died on May 26, 2001.

- Rumiana K. 4/23/2004 5:48:16 PM

This photo was a quick shot taken in March 1960 at a funeral for 136 Cubans killed in a terrorist attack. Alberto Korda snapped it as Che was at the podium, and the photo remained unpublished for seven years, and Korda gave it to an Italian journalist. Upon Che's death the photo was published as a poster in Italy and then became widely used around the world. Interesting note is that Korda never recieved a penny in royalties from this print.

- Janet D. 4/23/2004 5:48:16 PM

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Part-time Photographer
In the movie Mad Dog and Glory, Robert De Niro plays a mild-mannered man with an interest in photography; what does he do for a living?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Wayne Dobie, as played by Robert De Niro, is a shy police photographer

- Catherine G. 10/14/2000

Robert De Niro acts the part of Wayne "Mad Dog" Dobie, who is an evidence technician who takes photographs at crime scenes for the Chicago Police Department.

- Collin C. 10/14/2000

In MAD DOG AND GLORY, Robert De Niro stars as Wayne "Mad Dog" Dobie, a cop who wants desperately to be an artist. After saving the life of mobster Frank Milo (Bill Murray), his life takes a dramatic turn. Milo rewards Wayne by lending him his girlfriend, Glory (Uma Thurman), for one week.

- Rumiana K. 10/14/2000

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Picturing Sgt. Peppers
Who photographed the Beatles' Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The cover of the Beatles' Sgt. Peppers was staged by Peter Blake and Jann Haworth, and photographed by Michael Cooper at Chelsea Manor Studios in London, on March 30, 1967. It is unique, containing cardboard 86 cut-outs depicting images of famous people, wax models of Paul, John, George and Ringo, and other objects such as a velvet snake, television, stone figures, and more. The wax figures of the Beatles were courtesy of Madame Tussauds.

- Rumiana K. 10/14/2000

Michael Cooper

- Ted 10/14/2000

Michael Cooper at Chelsea Manor Photo Studios in London on March 30, 1967.

- Frank B. 10/14/2000

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Poetic Ode
An English poem describes the process of making a photograph as "mystic, awful" - who is the poet?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/22/2004 9:28:58 PM

"Hiawatha's Photographing" by Lewis Carroll: "From his shoulder Hiawatha Took the camera of rosewood. Made of sliding folding rosewood; Neatly put it all together. ... Pushed and pulled the joints and hinges, Till it looked all squared and oblongs. ... This he perched upon a tripod And the family in order Sat before him for their picture Mystic, awful was the process."

- Gregory A. 1/22/2004 9:28:58 PM

Are you looking for Lewis Carroll? His poem "Hiawatha's Photographing" has a line "be motionless, I beg you", that is followed by "mystic, awful was the process.

- Janet D. 1/22/2004 9:28:58 PM

Lewis Carroll, in 1857, wrote "Hiawatha's Photographing"

- Betsy T. 1/22/2004 9:28:58 PM

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Using His Little Grey Cells
Which famous British actor enjoys photography and shoots with a Nikon? What was the first camera he owned, bought for him by his grandfather, himself a famous "Fleet Street photographer"?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/22/2004 9:46:06 PM

David Suchet, otherwise known as Hercule Poirot in the Agatha Christie mystery series. His grandfather James Jarché gave him a Brownie Box camera.

- Karen 1/22/2004 9:46:06 PM

Actor David Suchet's grandfather was James Jarché, a famous Fleet Street photographer and became the highest paid photographer in Fleet Street. The family believes that Jarché was one of the first people to move from plate to a 35mm Leica. James bought David his first camera, a Brownie Box.

- Betsy T. 1/22/2004 9:46:06 PM

David Suchet, portrayer of Agatha Christi's Hercule Poirot. His first camera was a Brownie bought for him by his grandfather, James Jarche.

- Lisa R. 1/22/2004 9:46:06 PM

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Impressions in a Photographer's Studio
In the late 1800's, a group of painters joined forces and held a public exhibition at the studio of a Paris photographer. Who was exhibiting and how did one painting there give the group of painters their name?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/13/2004 11:03:12 PM

The group of painters including Pissarro, Monet, Sisley, Degas, Renoir, Cezanne had put up an exhibition in the salon of the Paris photographer, Nadar. There was displayed the painting Impressions : soleil levant, by Claude Monet. This painting provided the name IMPRESSIONISM to the movement.

- Rangan B. 1/13/2004 11:03:12 PM

The painters involved were Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, and Camille Pissarro. Monet's painting "Impression-Sunrise" gave us the name Impressionism.

- christina 1/13/2004 11:03:12 PM

In 1874, a group organized an exhibition in the studios of the photographer Nadar,in Paris. The exhibition included works by Camille Pissarro, Paul Cezanne, Alfred Sisley, Edgar Degas, Eugene Boudin, Berthe Morisot, Armand Guillaumin, Renoir, and Monet, as well as a number of others now regarded as lesser painters-making 30 exhibitors in all.

The first show provoked a storm of abuse from the press and the public, and the critic Louis Leroy mockingly coined the name "impressionist" to describe the group, taking it from Monet's canvas entitled "Impression: Sunrise".
--from http://www.ece.uic.edu/~ala/history.html

- Betsy T. 1/13/2004 11:03:12 PM

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Award Winning Ansel
What special award did Jimmy Carter give Ansel Adams in 1980?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The Presidential Medal of Freedom.

John Buchanan wrote in:
In 1979, former President and Mrs. Ford sent a letter to President Jimmy Carter recommending Ansel for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor. "Such an award by you would bring great honor to Ansel Adams, to American photography and to the preservation of our national heritage," they said.

President Carter evidently agreed. On June 9, 1980, in the Rose Garden at the White House, Ansel received the medal from Carter along with several other prominent Americans including former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, Admiral Hyman Rickover, Beverly Sills and Robert Penn Warren. The citation praised Ansel Adams as "visionary in his effort to preserve this country's wild and scenic areas, both on film and on Earth."

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Photosensitive Kids
In "The Others," the mother believes her children are "photosensitive." What does she mean by this?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/20/2004 1:34:56 PM

Like vampires, they are affected by the sunlight.

- Jordi T. 1/20/2004 1:34:56 PM

They are sun sensitive, which means that sunlight can literally kill them. It's a real condition: Kids who have it can only play outside at night, have to cover up completely and can never be exposed to sunlight, even indoors.

- Melissa M. 1/20/2004 1:34:56 PM

She meant that her child has "psoriasis" skin disease. Psoriasis is a typical light-sensitive skin disease.

- Roy Paul V. 1/20/2004 1:34:56 PM

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Jean Coquin
What is professional photographer Jean Coquin most known for?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
2/11/2004 4:40:25 PM

Cokin Filters! The system was invented by Coquin.

- Steve S. 2/11/2004 4:40:25 PM

Developed or invented the Cokin filter system.

- roger c. 2/11/2004 4:40:25 PM

Jean Coquin is famous for the Cokin filter system he developed. The system is very convenient to use since you can use the same filter for various lens diameters by using the appropriate adaptors. With correct adpator, I can even use the filters for my 135mm in my medium format camera.

- Napoleon 2/11/2004 4:40:25 PM

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Alice Again
As a photographer, Lewis Carroll made many portraits - his subjects ranging from Alfred, Lord Tennyson to a little girl named Alice. Besides, Carroll, which other famous photographer (a female) photographed Alice as a young woman.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/22/2004 9:39:01 PM

Julia Cameron photographed Alice Liddell as a young lady. Julia Margaret Cameron (born 11 June 1815; died 26 January 1879) was an English photographer. She was known for her romantic pictures, also for portraits of celebrities. Her portrait of Alice is wonderful.

- Rumiana K. 1/22/2004 9:39:01 PM

Famous Victorian photographer Julia Cameron (1815-1879) also photographed Alice Liddell. The photograph I saw shows Alice as a young woman - posed as the mirror image of Carroll's beggar girl.

- Sharon L. 1/22/2004 9:39:01 PM

It was Julia Margaret Cameron who photographed Alice Liddell. She also photographed Sir John Herschel and Tennyson as "The Dirty Monk2. She worked from Freshwater on the Isle of Wight. Other portraits she took were based on Shakespearian and mythological characters. She was influenced by the Pre-Raphaelites.

- David C. 1/22/2004 9:39:01 PM

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Reverend / Writer / Photographer
What English writer - most famous for a classic published in 1865 - was also a photographer before becoming a novelist?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/22/2004 9:26:31 PM

Lewis Carroll, a pseudonym of Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, born on 27th January 1832. From 1855 to 1881 he was a mathematics lecturer at Oxford. His most famous work is Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, published in 1865.

- Vincent L. 1/22/2004 9:26:31 PM

I think the answer is Lewis Carroll. He wrote Alice in Wonderland which was published in 1865. He learned photography from his uncle and his specialty was in portraiture.

- Sasa 1/22/2004 9:26:31 PM

Rev. Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, pen name Lewis Carroll, was also an accomplished photographer. He published his masterpiece "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" in 1865.

- Rumiana K. 1/22/2004 9:26:31 PM

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The Source
Which National Geographic photographer is accredited with discovering and photographing the source of the Amazon River? What book featured him for this achievement?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/22/2004 9:18:18 PM

I think you are asking about Loren O. McIntyre and his book SCH-AMAZONIA. It could also be noted that a National Geographic article by Donald Smith, dated December 21, 2000 gives credit to the exact pinpoint of origin to a five-nation National Geographic expedition headed by a 46-year-old Carmel, N.Y. math teacher named Andrew Pietowski. Both Mr. McIntyre's tremendous work and photographs and the team's final verification of Mr. McIntyre's identification of the source are worthy of being mentioned. Mr. McIntyre's allegation of the true source is no longer open to argument or speculation.

[Great answer, Janet. But the book I was looking for (I know it was an obscure question) was the Guinness Book of World Records. Thanks!]

- Janet D. 1/22/2004 9:18:18 PM

Loren McIntyre

book: "Running the Amazon" by Joe Kane

- Rumiana K. 1/22/2004 9:18:18 PM

Hi, Jim

My answer is Captain Loren McIntyre

Thanks

Dave Olson

- John O. 1/22/2004 9:18:18 PM

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Impressive Paintings
Which famous Impressionist painter had a darkroom connected to his studio and would take pictures of the various scenes in his gardens?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/13/2004 11:00:13 PM

Claude Monet, who lived from 1840 to 1926, had a darkroom in his studio at Giverny and often took photos of his garden.

- Judy S. 1/13/2004 11:00:13 PM

Monet

- Diana F. 1/13/2004 11:00:13 PM

Painter/Photographer Claude Monet had his own darkroom connected to his studio.

- Robin E. 1/13/2004 11:00:13 PM

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After 5000 Snapshots
Which great Agatha Christie detective said, "The man who invented the camera has a lot to answer for, mon ami"? What was the context?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/22/2004 9:52:38 PM

Poirot was the famous detective. An Austrailian insisted on showing him his snap shots from Austrailia which took hours. After this he replied saying "The man who invented the camera has a lot to answer for, mon ami."

- Betina N. 1/22/2004 9:52:38 PM

Hercule Poirot! The greatest detective!
From Belgium.

- Barbara V. 1/22/2004 9:52:38 PM

Hercule Poirot

- Jagrut R. 1/22/2004 9:52:38 PM

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I Only Play a Photographer on TV
Enrico Colantoni, who plays fashion photographer Elliot DiMauro on "Just Shoot Me!", went shooting in Alaska with the Canon Photo Safari. Who was his mentor for this show? What did they photograph together?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/13/2004 10:51:06 PM

I believe he was with Arthur Morris and they were photographing Bald Eagles.

- Roy B. 1/13/2004 10:51:06 PM

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Other Albums
In "The Others", Nicole Kidman discovers an old album of photos when trying to learn the history of her haunted house. What kind of album does she find?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
1/20/2004 1:31:13 PM

In "The Others", Nicole Kidman finds a book of the dead. It is an album of people posed to look alive but in fact they are all dead.

- Dave M. 1/20/2004 1:31:13 PM

A photo album of the dead.

- jerry j. 1/20/2004 1:31:13 PM

Album of the dead

- Catherine P. 1/20/2004 1:31:13 PM

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Moon Photo
When and on which craft was the first photo of the moon taken from space?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Luna 1 captured the first photograph of the moon from space. Launched on January 2, 1959, It was intended that the craft would impact the moon, but without directional thrusters, it missed by approximately 6000 km. It later became the first space vehicle to orbit the sun between the orbits of Earth and Mars.

[Editor: Yes, that's right, Al. Even though most people answered that is was the Ranger in 1964, that was the first US photo. Long before the USA did it, the USSR's Luna 3 returned the first photos of the far side of the moon on October 7, 1959 from a distance of 63,500 km from the moon.]

- Al B. 10/14/2000

The photo was taken on Luna 3, date was 4 October 1959

- Rebecca O. 10/14/2000

Russia's Luna 3 mission in 1959 sent back photos of the far side of the moon. The following link shows the very low resolution image radioed back:
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/multimedia/display.cfm?IM_ID=386

- Jon C. 10/14/2000

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All DOFs Created Equal?
Name one easy way to create photos with more depth of field. Bonus Question: would DOF centered in the foreground of a photo be as deep as DOF centered closer to the background, all other things being equal? Why?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Not all DOFs are equal. When focusing on distant objects, the depth of field is considerably greater than when focusing on near objects. The narrower the aperture (f/stop), the greater the DOF. There is a technique called "Hyperfocal Distance" that I believe offers the greatest DOF possible. You have to center the infinity mark on the distance-scale of your lense over the right-hand f/stop number you are using on the DOF scale. (If you have set your aperture at f/22 for maximum DOF, for instance, center the infinity mark over the right-hand 22 number.) That should do it.

- Ersi S. 10/14/2000

Stop Down Aperture one or more stops.

Bonus Question: For any given aperture, measuring from your point of sharpest focus, your range of acceptable focus is approxumately 1/3 in front of your point of sharpest focus and 2/3 behind your point of sharpest focus.

- Dick B. 10/14/2000

Question 1: Use a smaller aperture.

Bonus Question: No. Depth of field increases more beyond the center of focus than in front of it.

- Brian S. 10/14/2000

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Motivational Photo
In Romancing the Stone, Micheal Douglas's character is primarily motivated by a photograph of what?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

He is motivated by the sail boat he later purchases at the end of the movie! GREAT movie!

- Ashby B. 10/14/2000

a boat

- Anne M H. 10/14/2000

A sailboat

- Robert B. 10/14/2000

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Fugitive Clues
In The Fugitive, Dr. Richard Kimble (played by Harrison Ford) leads the U.S. Marshall Samuel Gerard (played by Tommy Lee Jones) to a particular photograph found at the killer's home. What is the subject of this photo and how does it help?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The photo is of a fishing expedition which shows the "One Armed Man" with a couple of physician/researchers from a certain pharmacutical company. The Physician/researchers were in bed with the pharmacutical company in developing a new wonder drug... that didn't work. One of the physicians was afraid Kimball would find out about the fake drug and had his wife killed. He framed Kimball for her death and that got Kimball out of the way so the bogus research could continue. The real suspect was the "One Armed Man" and the picture linked him to the physician, which was "supposed" to be Kimball's best friend. Kimball knew then that the "One Armed Man" was the man who had killed his wife.

- Alan B. 10/14/2000

The answer to the subject of the image that the good dr. was after was a sport fish...I believe it was a tuna..not sure...anyway, they were on a trip to the south and there were 4 or 5 men in the image..one of the men was a man connected to the large pharmacuetical company that was becoming in question. The owner of the photograph was in the image and DR. K. recognized his friend in the image.

- Linda V. 10/14/2000

The killer is the "one armed" man that Kimble had said murdered his wife.

- Karen 10/14/2000

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Master of Her Genre
What kind of photography is Annie Liebowitz most famous for?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Portraits of celebrities; women

- Rumiana K. 10/14/2000

Best known for Vanity Fair magazines and for work in Rolling Stone

- pix & p. 10/14/2000

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Coffee Can
What coffee company used Ansel Adams' photograph of Half Dome on their coffee can around 1968? How did Imogen Cunningham let Ansel know that she disapproved of this commercial use?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
12/8/2003 2:55:38 PM

It was Hills Brother's coffee. She sent him an empty coffee can with a marijuana plant growing inside!!

- Patricia K. 12/8/2003 2:55:38 PM

Hills Brothers was the coffee. Imogen Cunningham (1883-1976) sent Ansel Adams one of the cans with a marijuana plant growning in it to show her disapproval of his commercial venture.

- Janet D. 12/8/2003 2:55:38 PM

Ansel allowed images from Yosemite (snow scenes) to be put on Hill's Brothers coffee cans in 1968. Imogen Cunningham was so infuriated that she sent Ansel one of the cans with a marijuan plant growing in it.

Imogen used to give Ansel a hard time about what she considered his "too-commercial" side. That was probably another legacy of her being around painters so much. She felt he wasn't enough the artist, wasn't following the studio tradition.

- Scott B. 12/8/2003 2:55:38 PM

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Classics
In The Philadelphia Story, who plays the photographer?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Elizabeth (Liz) Imbrie was the photographer, played by Ruth Hussey. Ms. Hussey was also sometimes credited as Ruth March. She arrives on the scene with writer Mike Conner, played by Jimmy Stewart I believe.

- Janet D. 10/14/2000

Ruth Hussey

- Brenda S. 10/14/2000

Elizabeth "Liz" Imbrie (Ruth Hussey) played the role of Photographer in
"The Philadelphia Story"

- Shravan Kumar S. 10/14/2000

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Pixar Picture-Taking
What is the brand name on the camera that temporarily blinds Marlin when he is trying to save his son Nemo? Extra credit: can you think of another Pixar movie where a camera comes into play at a pivotal point in the story?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
11/24/2003 8:49:03 PM

Sea Meister is the name of the camera.
Extra Credit: Toy Story 2, in the airport!
Happy Thanksgiving! [Good job, Stevie! The actual extra credit I was looking for, though, was the Harry Housin scene in Monsters, Inc. when Boo is photographed by another monster in the restaurant.]

- Stevie S. 11/24/2003 8:49:03 PM

Why its a Sea Meister, of course.
I believe his model was yellow.
Thanks,

- Janet D. 11/24/2003 8:49:03 PM

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Dungeons & Dragons
Kodak's early advertising often featured what kind of creature from folklore?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

I do believe it was a Brownie (elf).

- Rose P. 10/14/2000

The Brownie. See http://photoarts.com/gallery/kodak/family/043.jpeg

- TOM T. 10/14/2000

Brownies... little imps

- Collin C. 10/14/2000

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Digital Opinions
What was Ansel's take on digital imaging?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

He actually did get to play around with some of the first digital imaging software and thought highly of it.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Change in Plans
What did Ansel Adams want to be when he grew up, before discovering the art of photography? [And which BetterPhoto instructor experienced a similar change in plans?]

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Ansel Adams wanted to become a pianist. If the question in brackets is part of the question, the answer is Tony Sweet, who played jazz.

- margreet f. 10/14/2000

I don't know about which Betterphoto instructor planned on being a concert pianist, but I do know that Ansel Adams was quite accomplished on the piano.

- Sreedevi K. 10/14/2000

Ansel Adams wanted to be a pianist.
(Second part, would it be Jim Miotke?) [No, I tried learning the piano but have not, as of yet, been able to master it. Thanks for the vote of confidence, though.]

- Karen 10/14/2000

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The Edge
Who plays the photographer in the movie The Edge? What kind of photography does he specialize in? Why is he, Anthony Hopkins and Elle Macpherson, visiting the Alaskan wild?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Alec Baldwin plays the photographer, Bob Green. He is a fashion photographer and they are going to the Alaskan wild to find a photogenic friend who lives there.

- Brenda S. 10/14/2000

Photographer (Robert Green): Alec Baldwin

He specializes in Fashion Photography.

They are in Alaska for a photo shoot.

- Darryl 10/14/2000

alec baldwin is a high-powered fashion photog and they are in alaska on a fashion shoot.

- Rose P. 10/14/2000

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Cheaper by the Dozen
Frank Gilbreth, immortalized in the book and movie, Cheaper by the Dozen, made stereographic photos of all sorts of activities including typing, surgery, bricklaying, and even oyster shucking. Why?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Frank Gilbreth, Sr., was a pioneer in the field of motion study, so taking the photos was part of his studies...

- Gadi E. 10/14/2000

It was a time and motion study.

- Jim C. 10/14/2000

He was a productivity expert and used his family of 12 children (plus his wife of course) to measure, study "time/motion" with the routine tasks they did every day. Cute, funny book!

- Mary Ellen S. 10/14/2000

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Photo Libs
Fill in the blanks on this famous quote: "If your pictures aren't ____ enough, you're not ______ enough?" Who said it?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

"If your pictures aren't good enough, your not close enough". Robert Capa

- Jim C. 10/14/2000

"If your pictures aren't good enough, you're not close enough."

Robert Capa

- Merrell W. 10/14/2000

If you're pictures aren't GOOD enough, you're not CLOSE enough.
Quoted by Robert Capa
Thanks

- Karen 10/14/2000

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Qu'est-ce que c'est... un collage?
The word "collage" - as in a photo that is a combination of multiple images - is taken from the which word, meaning what? Here's a hint: it's French.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Etymology: French, literally, gluing, from coller to glue, from colle glue, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin colla, from Greek kolla

- Gadi E. 10/14/2000

French, from coller, to glue

- Jim C. 10/14/2000

Definition: From the French meaning "paste up", collage involves combining pieces of cloth, magazines and other found objects to create a work of art.

Pronunciation: ko·lage • (noun)

- Karen 10/14/2000

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Littering in Italy
Why does the character George Emerson toss Lucy Honeychurch's photographs into the river in A Room With A View?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The photos were covered with blood from a street fight.

Great film!

- Karen R. 10/14/2000

He threw the photos in the water because they had the blood of a murdered man on them.

- Karen 10/14/2000

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Name that Film
In which movie does an older man misrepresent himself by sending his potential bride a self-portrait taken when he was 20 years younger?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Picture Bride (I knew this would be a challenging one).

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Most Expensive Throw-Away
In the movie, The Spanish Prisoner, how much does Steve Martin's character offer to pay for the protagonist's single-use camera? Why does he want it and why doesn't the sale go through? Bonus Question: What kind of camera is it?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
8/25/2003 8:39:32 PM

Steve Martin's character offered $1000 to Campbell Scott's character for the camera because one of the shots included his friend's wife, who wasn't supposed to be on the island at the time. Instead he handed over the camera as a gift.

- Joseph N. 8/25/2003 8:39:32 PM

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Origins
What kind of photography was Julia Margaret Cameron known for? Where was she born?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Julia Margaret Cameron was known for Victorian photography. She was born in Calcutta in 1815.

- Susan D. 10/14/2000

1815 - 1879 Born: Calcutta, India
Julia Margaret Cameron received a gift from her daughter of a camera... She was a pioneer victorian photograper.

- Lori L. 10/14/2000

Known for Victorian portrait photography. Born in Calcutta in 1815.

- Doug F. 10/14/2000

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Ethics of Photography
Who is Edward Curtis primarily known for photographing and why is his work disregarded by many historians and cultural anthropologists?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Edward Curtis photographed the American Indian. He has been accused of posing his subjects in such a way as to support his preconceived notions of Indian life.

- Joseph N. 10/14/2000

The American Indian. I think it is because the subjects co-operated in the photography sessions and were not completely natural.

- Peter B. 10/14/2000

He is famous for photographing Native American Indians,and criticised for editing the images he took. For example, he removed evidence of modernisation from images such as an alarm clock, and produced 'contrived' photos in idealised settings. He also used filters and soft focus techniques. The major criticism is that he wasn't a 'documentary' photographer - he arranged subjects in his work to fit his vision of what he wanted to portray, not as things really were.

- Chris H. 10/14/2000

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Dead Poet Society Goes to Italy
Which movie character brings along numerous portraits of famous dead poets on a vacation to Italy?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

I think it is James Stewart.

[No. This is not correct but as you were the only who answered, you win ;-) The correct answer was Mrs. Fisher in the great movie and play, Enchanted April. This was a really hard one...]

- Peter B. 10/14/2000

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Eadweard Who?
In 1878, Eadweard Muybridge took pictures of which animal to study motion?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

I believe it was a horse. I think he wanted to see if all four legs left the ground at the same time.

- Brinn M. 10/14/2000

A horse called Sallie Gardner. You can see the animation of his photos here: http://www.sfmuseum.org/hist3/sallie.html. He was commissioned to prove that trotters lift all four hooves off the ground simultaneously when they are trotting.

- Chris H. 10/14/2000

Horses. He photographed them to see if all of thier feet touched the ground at the same time

- Anne M H. 10/14/2000

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Hasselblad Beginnings
Hasselblad cameras were originally produced for who and for what purpose? When did the company first start making cameras for the general public?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
7/4/2003 2:12:35 PM

The first Hasselblad camera was produced for the Swedish military during WWII. It was a reverse-engineered German spy or surveillance camera. Hasselblad continued to produce cameras for the military until 1948, when the Hasselblad 1600F SLR was introduced. This model had some flaws, and was superceded by the 1000F. The famous 'drop-test' by Modern Photography magazine resulted in the birth of a legendary series of Hasselblads (one of which I aspire to own one day!)

- Chris H. 7/4/2003 2:12:35 PM

Here's what I found on a website called www.williamsphotographic.com.

1941-1945: Victor Hasselblad AB is commissioned to produce 342 large format reconnaissance cameras for the Royal Swedish Air Force.

1948: The 1600F single lens reflex camera with focal plane shutter, interchangeable lenses and film magazines was introduced. Manufacturing started in 1949 with a first series of apporximately 270 cameras bearing serial numbers from 0001 to 0308 engraved on the camera body. A second series of approximately 3000 cameras with serial numbers CS1050 to CP13823 was produced up to 1952. The cameras were equipped with 80mm f2.8 Kodak Ektar lenses. Some 254mm f5.6 and 135mm f3.5 Kodak Ektars and a few 55mm f6.3 accessory lenses were also available.

I also read on another site that there are twelve cameras on the moon at present.
Thanks
Karen

- Karen 7/4/2003 2:12:35 PM

The Swedish Air Force asked Victor Hasselblad if he could make a camera like one found in a German aircraft which was shot down in 1940.

Hasselblad said that he could make a better one and became a manufacturer of aerial cameras for the Swedish Air Force. The first Hasselblad camera for the general public was produced in 1949.

- Michael K. 7/4/2003 2:12:35 PM

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Shoot The Moon
What kind of cameras might one find on the moon? How many and why are they there?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
7/4/2003 2:16:01 PM

There are 12 Hasselblads on the moon. Only the film backs were taken home to earth by the Apollo missions of 1969 to 1972 due to the weight of the cameras and the need to bring back scientific samples (space and weight constraints). A very famous story!

[Editor: my source says there are 13 up there... but close enough.]

- Chris H. 7/4/2003 2:16:01 PM

HAsselblad 500C 2 of 'em were left behind because of the additional weight they would add on the return flight!

- Dale M. 7/4/2003 2:16:01 PM

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Close Enough
Who said, "Anything more than 500 yards from the car just isn't photogenic?"

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Edward Weston, complaining about carrying equipment!

- Chris H. 10/14/2000

Edward Weston

- Gregory A. 10/14/2000

Edward Weston

- Jordi T. 10/14/2000

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Which Came First
The first flexible, rolled film for still photographs was introduced about how many years before the first motion picture was made?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Well, this was a tough one and nobody answered it. The answer is that George Eastman and William Walker invented a flexible film layered with gelatin emulsions on paper backing in 1882. The first motion picture films were made on sensitized paper rolls in 1888 by Louis Aime Augustin Le Prince, only six years later.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Photo Libs
Fill in the blanks: Ansel Adams once said, "There is nothing worse than a _______ image of a _______ concept."

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Ansel Adams once said, "There is nothing worse than a
SHARP image of a FUZZY concept."

This was a bit too easy to find: http://www.google.com ;-)

- Jan V. 10/14/2000

There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept.

- Sandy G. 10/14/2000

There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept.

- David H. 10/14/2000

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Skyrocketing Subscriptions
When did National Geographic begin using photographs?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

In 1903 Natinal Geographic ran its first halftone, a photo of Filipina "woman at work in the rice fields." In 1905 it ran its first photo spread unbroken by almost no text. It was an 11 page spread taken by two Russian explorers of the Tibetan city of Lhasa. In 1910 the magazine ran its first color photographs which were hand colored black & white photos, of Korea and China...

- Sandra C. 10/14/2000

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Twilight Zones
Who invented the Zone system? In a nutshell, what is it?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Ansel Adams invented the Zone System. In a nutshell, the Zone System is a photographic method whereby a scene to be photographed can be purposely translated into a black and white negative (and hence a black and white print) that records a full range of tones ranging from solid blacks to pure white.

- Janet P. 10/14/2000

Ansel Adams invented the Zone System for Black and White photography (well before the advent of colour emulsions). He formalised the approach of the use of photographic techniques to translate his "mind's eye view" of a subject and the print that was produced.

In a nutshell, the Zone System says that if your photographic system is calibrated and if the elements in that system behave consistently then the light meter will tell you how much light you need to use to reproduce a subject as what is referred to as "middle gray".

Based on this, you can not only place a subject on middle gray, you can place a subject on any gray that your photographic paper can reproduce.

Through the careful use of exposure and film development, you can control not just one subject area but at least two subject areas.

Taking the work further by using filters and other techniques, you can influence three or more subject areas, placing the combination of those areas on whichever parts of the grayscale you need to create what you see in your "mind's eye".

- Chris H. 10/14/2000

Ansel Adams and Fred Acker invented the zone system. Values are assigned to the different tones the camera sees through its meter. Medium grey is Zone V, which is what your camera will make your subject (what its spot meter is pointed at). The various zones are from I to X, I being black and X being white. You use what the meter sees as a starting point and then choose the zone level you want your subject to be and increase or decrease exposure to that level.

- Kathleen N. 10/14/2000

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Does Whatever A Spider Can
In the recent movie version of Stan Lee's classic superhero, how much does Peter Parker get for his first freelance photography sale? Who buys his pictures and what are they of? Lastly, given the conditions in which they were shot, could anyone have ever produced such photographic results? Why not?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
5/26/2003 10:13:41 PM

Peter Parker gets $300 for his first shots from J. Jonah Jameson, the editor of the Daily Bugle. The pictures are of Spiderman in action, essentially. Given the situations in which they were taken, similar results most likely would not be able to be reproduced. Some of the reasons as to why this is, is that some of the shots are of Spiderman on the exterior of tall buildings, and those types of windows do not open, thus taking those pictures would prove difficult. As the pictures are inherrently candid (more or less) a photographer tailing Spiderman would not have ample time to set up.

[Editor: excellent answer, Aaron. Those are the correct details. As far as why these images look unrealistic, I also like Anthony Vaccaro's subsequent answer, where he mentions that the photos looked like they were shot in "broad day light" whereas the images were really shot "at night with a flash". The lighting is what really gives it away.]

- Aaron V. 5/26/2003 10:13:41 PM

Peter Parker/Spidey sells his photos to the NY Times. They are pictures he took of himself in action from a camera he had mounted in place. No, no one could probably get shots like that. Why? Because it's HOLLYWOOD!!!!

Linda

- Linda H. 5/26/2003 10:13:41 PM

Peter got $300. from the editor of the local newspaper for the pix of Spiderman.
The pix the editor wes looking at were from different angles in what looked like broad day light. The pix were shot from a fixed position camera at night with a flash. If I remember correctly it was or had just rained.

- Anthony V. 5/26/2003 10:13:41 PM

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Light Clues in Photos
In which movie does a mom - played by Toni Collette - see a suspicious flare of light next to numerous photos of her son?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The Sixth Sense

- Yakir Z. 10/14/2000

the sixth sense starring bruce willis

- Tom 10/14/2000

The Sixth Sense

- Chris H. 10/14/2000

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Robert Capa, D-Day, and the Tea Boy - Part III
In previous weeks, we learned how Robert Capa's D-Day invasion were ruined during developing, how a "tea boy" was the scapegoat for the fiasco, and how events later tied the "tea boy" back to Robert Capa.

Here is our third trivia question, thanks to John Lind:

What three things did Robert Capa and the "tea boy" have in common throughout their lives?

- John L. 4/6/2003 6:55:07 PM

Both started in photography as 'print boys'. Both worked as photographers for Life magazine. Both were killed covering war assignments in Indochina.

[Editor: this was the closest to what we were looking for... Both: (a) were famous war photographers, (b) photographed the Vietnam War for Life Magazine, and (c) were killed in combat in Southeast Asia photographing the Vietnam War.]

- Doug D. 4/6/2003 6:55:07 PM

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Robert Capa, D-Day, and the Tea Boy - Part II
Last time, we learned how Robert Capa's D-Day invasion were ruined during developing, and how a "tea boy" was the scapegoat for the fiasco.

1. Events years later tied the "tea boy" back to Robert Capa. What was this event (hint: the "tea boy" won three times)?

- John L. 4/6/2003 6:53:18 PM

Larry Burrows was a three-time winner of the Overseas Press Club's Robert Capa Gold Medal award.

- James K. 4/6/2003 6:53:18 PM

Burrows was a three-time winner of the Overseas Press Club's Robert Capa Gold Medal awarded for "superlative photography requiring exceptional courage and enterprise."

- Michelle C M. 4/6/2003 6:53:18 PM

Larry Burrows, became a photographer and He was a three time winner of the Robert Capa Gold Medal for still photography requiring exceptional courage and enterprise.

He died during the Vietnam war when his helicopter was downed.

- Karen 4/6/2003 6:53:18 PM

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Robert Capa, D-Day, and the Tea Boy - Part I
This is the first of a three-part trivia question, courtesy of John Lind:

On June 6th, 1944, Robert Capa landed with the D-Day invasion at Normandy. After photographing the invasion landing, he "pulled out all the stops" getting his film back to England so the images could be the first published of the invasion.

During developing, his rolls of 35mm film were very nearly destroyed, and a "tea boy" was the scapegoat for the fiasco. A few that could be partially salvaged were published with the excuse they were "slightly out of focus."

1. Who was the "tea boy" that took the blame for the ruined film (even though he was not the one responsible)?

- John L. 4/6/2003 6:49:03 PM

Larry Burrows took the fall

But... Dennis Banks was to blame. Because he put the film in the drying cabinet and did not open the vent so the film got very hot and melted the emulsion.

- James K. 4/6/2003 6:49:03 PM

Larry Burrows was the "Tea Boy."

- Penny S. 4/6/2003 6:49:03 PM

The film was entrusted to a London Lab, who were told to hasten the processing, as the Entire World Was Waiting. They failed to properly fix the film, or, alternatively, rushed the drying, though the latter seems unlikely.

And they blamed it, most unfairly, on a 15-year-old "Tea Boy", Larry Burrows. Burrows had nothing at all to do with the film's processing -- given British shop rules of the era, he probably never got to do more than what his job-title suggested, running out to get cups of tea for the dark-room guys.

Burrows went on to become a most accomplished and honored photo-journalist himself, and was to die in Vietnam a quarter-century later.

- Gordon M. 4/6/2003 6:49:03 PM

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Birth of Kodak
What year was Kodak formed?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Well...the question is a bit ambigous and as such I am not sure exactly which date your asking for......so I'll give you three answers.

The base company was started as "Eastman Dry Plate Company" around September of 1881.

The first time the commercial name of "Kodak" was used was in 1888 when the first snapshot camera came into mass marketing.

In 1892 the company became the "Eastman Kodak Company" for the first time identifying itself with the word Kodak in its title.

So...in light of not really knowing if your asking when the genisis of kodak happend....or when the firt time the name was used...or the first time the name was used in the companys name.....hope one is what your looking for...

Thanks!! : )

- Roman J. 10/14/2000

George Eastman founded his company in 1880 and introduced the 'Kodak' camera in 1888.

- Carole B. 10/14/2000

In 1892 The Eastman Dry Plate Company became the Eastman-Kodak Company of New York.

- Pepi R. 10/14/2000

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Timeline
What film formats were introduced the year JFK was shot?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

instamatic 128?

[Editor: This is very close to what I was looking for: 126 Cartridge / Instamatic Cameras and Polaroid instant color film were introduced in 1963, according to the Timeline of Photography at Eastman.org.

- Bob F. 10/14/2000

Techniscope, Ultra Panavision, and Dimension 150

- Ken I. 10/14/2000

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Paul Simon
What type of film did Paul Simon once sing of in a hit song?

- Rick J. 1/25/2003 8:02:04 PM

Kodachrome

- Mark E. 1/25/2003 8:02:04 PM

Kodachrome... it gives us such nice bright colors...

- Gary L. 1/25/2003 8:02:04 PM

Kodachrome........

- Gary L. 1/25/2003 8:02:04 PM

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Simpsons Self Defense
In one episode of The Simpsons, Homer and his family are about to be killed by robots gone berserk. How does photography save the day?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
3/4/2003 12:59:50 AM

The flash from the camera fries the robots and makes them collapse.

- Sam C. 3/4/2003 12:59:50 AM

The robots are destroyed as a result of using flash, they explode or short surcuit(sp?) when a flash goes off.

;-)Trine

- Trine S. 3/4/2003 12:59:50 AM

The camera flash destroyed them

- Terry C. 3/4/2003 12:59:50 AM

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Notes
Which great composer did Arnold Newman photograph in 1946 in an image that features a piano lid resembling a musical note?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Igor Stravinsky

- Dick B. 10/14/2000

I believe the answer is: Igor Stravinsky

- Penny S. 10/14/2000

igor stravinsky

- Robert S. 10/14/2000

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Presidential Portrait
Who was the first U.S. President to have his photograph taken? What year did this occur and which photographic process was used?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
2/17/2003 12:14:45 PM

I'm too late, but it was President James Polk, taken by Matthew Brady with his "deuro" type photographes.

[Editor: You're not too late, Doug, and you are the closest to the correct answer. James Polk (1845-49) was indeed the first President to have his photograph taken. But it was a daguerreotype and is was photographed by John Plumbe, Jr. Matthew Brady is famous for his portraits of Abraham Lincoln and his images of the Civil War. See the photo of Polk at WhiteHouse.gov or at PictureHistory.com .]

- Doug F. 2/17/2003 12:14:45 PM

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Ready to Wear
What arena of photography is parodied in the movie Ready to Wear?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

fashion/model arena

- James K. 10/14/2000

Fashion Photography

- George W. 10/14/2000

In the movie "Ready to wear", they ridicule or parody the fashion industry, though they poke fun at sports and almost everything else!

- Peter Blaise M. 10/14/2000

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Do What You Love
In which movie does Sandra Bullock's character turn to her interest in photography to make a little extra dough?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

HOPE FLOATS!

[Editor: Wow... I am impressed, Amanda. You answered this correctly even before I got the SnapShot newsletter sent! Good job!]

- Amanda H. 10/14/2000

Hope Floats

- Hollie 10/14/2000

Hope Floats

- Lana M. 10/14/2000

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Turn of the Century Christmas Gift
How much did the first mass-marketed camera, Kodak's Brownie, cost?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

One dollar

- Anne B. 10/14/2000

First mass-marketed camera, the Kodak Brownie, costs $1.

- James K. 10/14/2000

One dollar.

- Kathleen 10/14/2000

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Christmas Break
In his first starring role, a certain actor plays a college student who is motivated to travel across America during his Christmas break, all because of a photograph of a beautiful girl. Who is the actor and what was the movie?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

John Cusack
The Sure Thing

- Melinda C. 10/14/2000

"The Sure Thing," with John Cusack.

- Amy H. 10/14/2000

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Back in My Day
How much did the first issue of Life - dated November 23, 1936, and featuring the work of Margaret Bourke-White and others - sell for?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

When the first copy of LIFE hit the market it was sold on the stands for a dime and a subscription was
$3.50. After February 1st of 1937 the subscription price went up to $4.50 a year. (LIFE 1/4/37)

- Rick G. 10/14/2000

$0.10 ten whole cents

http://www.life.com/Life/covers/1936/cv112336.html

- Michelle C M. 10/14/2000

I believe the answer is five cents!

- Jean C. 10/14/2000

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Famous Fakes
What photo of a famous sea monster was revealed to be a fake on the creator's deathbed? How did the photographer create the convincing photo?

- Jason J. 8/29/2002 8:06:03 AM

The Loch Ness monster, Mr. Christian Spurling confessed on his deathbed November 1993.

A toy tin submarine And wood putty. It had a lead keel to keep it stable in the water. On a quiet day down at Loch Ness they floated the model out into the shallows. Snapped a picture.

Additional info: Mr. Marmaduke Wetherell set up the scam. He had been hired to track down this headline-making monster by the Daily Mail newspaper. So he asked his stepson, Mr. Christian Spurling, "Can you make me a monster?"

Just to keep the whole scam in the family, Mr. Wetherell's other son, Ian, took the photo.

To give the hoax some clout, London surgeon, Robert Kenneth Wilson came forward as the front man. But once the photo got into the newspapers, their little joke got completely out of hand and so the myth of Nessie was rekindled.

- James K. 8/29/2002 8:06:03 AM

The Loch Ness Sea Monster.

- Helen A. 8/29/2002 8:06:03 AM

The famous sea monster is Nessy, the Loch Ness Sea Monster. The Dr. used an altered duck decoy and photographed in the lake from a boat. He also might have altered the negative while processing it.
J Lucius Estes

- lou e. 8/29/2002 8:06:03 AM

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Photo Op
In what year was the term "photo op" coined to describe "a brief, organized, and often staged opportunity to photograph a celebrity or public figure?"

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

1972

- Carlos 10/14/2000

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First Commerical Camera
What was the first commercially manufacturered camera?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

1839 Giroux Daguerreotype camera is introduced; first commercially-manufactured camera.

- Jim D. 10/14/2000

The first commercially manufactured camera was the Giroux daguerreotype. Alphonse Giroux et Cie. began manufacturing them on August 19, 1839, at Rue du Coq St. Honroe 7, Paris, France. Approximately 250 were built.

Although Alphonse Giroux manufactured them, Louis Jacques Mandé Daguerre is credited with being its inventor, also the inventor of the "daguerreotype" process for which the camera was built (silver-plated copper plate, coated with silver iodide and "developed" with warmed mercury).

With an original list price of approximately $50, the camera body was a "sliding box" design made of wood (no bellows). It featured a 15-inch f/15 achromatic doublet landscape lens with brass lens tube made by Charles Chevalier (Chevalier was another French company). It used entire 6½ x 8½ inch daguerreotype plates for making single exposures. (Want another pic? Load another plate.) Shutter was a pivoting metal plate on the front of the lens tube that was rotated to open and close the shutter.

-- John

- John L. 10/14/2000

The first cmmercially manufactured camera was the Giroux Daguerreoptype camera.

- Charles C. 10/14/2000

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First Kodachrome
When was Kodak's Kodachrome film introduced?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

1935 Kodachrome film was introduced and began the first commerically successful ameteur colour film initally in 16mm for motion pictures. 35mm slide 8mm home movies followed in 1935

[Editor: Yes, can you believe it has been around that long? Makes sense why Paul Simon wrote a song about it.]

- Lori M. 10/14/2000

1935

- Michal O. 10/14/2000

Kodachrome came into being in 1935.

- Jim C. 10/14/2000

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Movie Trivia with Clue
A mid-nineties movie featured a plot twist where, much to the photographer's chagrin, a person falls in love with the photographer rather than the one being photographed. This movie is loosely based on a Jane Austin novel, where a person falls in love with the artist rather than the one sitting for a portrait. What is the name of the movie and what is the name of the novel?

Here is a clue: the main character can also be quoted, when picking out a dress for a date, as saying "I never rely on mirrors so I always take Polaroids."

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
9/16/2002

The movie to which you refer is "Clueless", starring Alicia Silverstone. It is based on the Jane Austen book "Emma".

- Halcyon N. 9/16/2002

The name of the movie is "Clueless" and the book it is loosely based on is "Emma."

- Lori L. 9/16/2002

Movie: Clueless
Novel: Emma

- Jeff 9/16/2002

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Picture an Angel
What kind of photograph in City of Angels helped Meg Ryan's character learn the truth about Seth? And how?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Wasn't the picture a Polaroid taken at a family gathering and when the picture was taken Seth was in it, but when she looked at the picture there was a big star-type flare where Seth was standing.

- Sarah M. 10/14/2000

A polaroid photo at a party

- Garry 10/14/2000

A polaroid photo. "Seth" was seen as a flash of light.

- Ricky K. 10/14/2000

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Hot Off the Press
Who is the star of a very recent movie where a photo lab technician becomes far too interested in his customer's photos.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
8/27/2002

Robin Williams

- Lori M. 8/27/2002

Robin Williams

- Amy H. 8/27/2002

Robin Williams.

- June Marie S. 8/27/2002

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More Movie Fun
In which movie did Julia Roberts play a professional photographer? Bonus Question: what kind of camera(s) did she use?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The movie is STEP-MOM starring Julia Roberts and Susan Sarandon.

Julia Roberts uses Nikon equipment in the film.

- Hemant 10/14/2000

Julia was a professional photographer in "Stepmom." When not at work, she used a Nikon F5.

- Amy H. 10/14/2000

Julia Roberts played a professional photographer in Stepmom.

- Jim D. 10/14/2000

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Negatives
In The Thomas Crown Affair remake of 1999, the character Catherine Banning - played by Rene Russo - gives detective Michael McCann a set of negatives. What are they and how are they meant to help him?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/15/2000

The negatives are from photos of the unframed art work. Because the edges of the art are hidden by the frame, a forger cannot reproduce the entire painting.

The negatives are used to establish the bona fides of the painting.

- John E. 10/15/2000

Hi Jim

This is one of my favorite movies, so I know the answer. The negatives are of the borders of the paintings. They are taken so that the paintings can be identified later by their borders. If you have the pictures of the borders, then you were in the presence of the original painting or the person that took the pictures were.

The pictures are used to identify the borders of original paintings.

[Editor: Yes, I greatly enjoy this movie too. It proves to me that remakes can be much better than the original. We have seen this movie many, many times... - Jim ]

- Pieter R. 10/15/2000

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Photo / Movie Trivia
In what film does Russell Crowe play a young dishwasher who befriends a blind photographer?

Who plays the blind photographer, and for what American-made film is this actor best known?

- Submitted by Piper L.

- Piper L. 5/7/2002 6:14:48 PM

Film is called "Proof".

Blind Photographer is played by Hugo Weaving.

The American-made film is "The Matrix"

- Carlos R. 5/7/2002 6:14:48 PM

The movie was Proof, 1992.
Russell Crowe stared opposite Hugo Weaving. Russell Crowe is most popular for his incredible role in Gladiator, and Hugo Weavings most popular roles to date include The Matrix and The Lord of The Rings (Fellowship of the Ring, and The Two Towers)
stormi

- T L. 5/7/2002 6:14:48 PM

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Green Card
In the movie Green Card, how do the characters played by Gerard Depardieu and Andie MacDowell use photography to help convince immigration officers they are married for love rather than for convenience?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

They tried to make it look like they took vacations and imply everyday type of photos in their photo albums by taking polaroids

- Stina B. 10/14/2000

The created pictures to make it look like they took a honeymoon, to convince the imigration officer that they were married

- Amy S. 10/14/2000

The characters use a Polaroid camera to "document" their life together by taking pictures of their honeymoon, vacations, etc.

- Kyle 10/14/2000

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Polaroid Image Transfers
What is a Polaroid image (as opposed to emulsion) transfer and how is it made?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Like Deb mentioned last time, you make a Polaroid emulsion transfer by basically cooking the emulsion off of a Polaroid. Once it has been removed from the paper backing, this gelatinous picture can be applied to your choice of surfaces. It can then be pushed, pulled, folded, ripped... you name it. Very fun process. You can see example emulsion transfers here:
http://www.betterphoto.com/pEtransfers.asp

An image transfer, on the other hand, is created by prematurely stopping the Polaroid developing process. You rip apart the Polaroid shortly after exposing it. Then you press the photo chemicals onto a receptive surface like watercolor paper. See examples of this process here:
http://www.betterphoto.com/ptransfers.asp

Both are a lot of fun and make great summer art projects. Enjoy,
Jim

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Polaroid Emulsion Transfers
How is a Polaroid emulsion transfer made?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

To make a Polaroid emulsion transfer, first expose Polaroid ER film using either a camera or a slide printer and allow the print to develop for the recommended time. Then peel this film apart and place the print in hot (coffee pot temp.) water. The emulsion will start to seperate form the paper base. Move the print to a tray of cold water and starting at the corner peel the emulsion off the base. Once the emulsion is free, place a new sheet of paper (preferrably water color stock or other good paper) and place the emulsion onto the paper. The emulsion can be moved, stretched and contorted until the desire result is achieved. Remove from water and let dry.

- Deb T. 10/14/2000

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Four Rocks
In 1977, the Voyager 1,2 photographed the first images of which four planets?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Jupiter and it's moons, Europa, Io, Ganymede & Callisto are the first five objects that Voyager 1 took pictures of. Thanks,

- Dave G. 10/14/2000

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A True Artist
Which movie character, along with his many other talents, also considered himself quite the fashion photographer, photographing such models as Elizabeth Hurley and Heather Graham?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Austin Powers

- Mark E. 10/14/2000

Austin Powers... International man of mystery!

- Mike H. 10/14/2000

Mike Myers as Austin Powers

- Meagan G. 10/14/2000

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Ego
Which American artist created the Rayograph (later called the photogram), a collage of objects placed onto photographic paper and exposed to light?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Man Ray - Born August 27, 1890 - Died November 18, 1976

- John B. 10/14/2000

Man ray

- Lori M. 10/14/2000

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Comparison Riddle
Comparing photography to another fine art, what did Ansel Adams say the photographic negative and print resembled?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The negative is like a composer's score and the print is the performance.

- John B. 10/14/2000

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Leafless Trees
In which movie does Robert Redford's character asks the woman he has taken hostage (Faye Dunaway) why she shoots pictures of empty park benches and leafless trees?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Three Days of the Condor

- Bill Q. 10/14/2000

Three Days of the COndor

- dave 10/14/2000

Three Days of the Condor - a truly great film.

- Michael W. 10/14/2000

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What Went Wrong?
From the four rolls of film that Robert Capa shot of D-Day, only 11 frames were printable. Why?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

In a rush to see the results, the darkroom technician in the London lab dried the films at too high a temperature, melting the emulsion of most of the frames.

[Editor: We had a number of excellent answers this week. In particular, you will enjoy John Lind's detailed Short Answer, Long Answer, and Epilogue. Click the link below to read all about this unfortunate event.]

- Dick B. 10/14/2000

The film was placed on a radiator in London before they were processed.

- Ron S. 10/14/2000

Robert Capa three rolls of film were rushed to London for processing. And the darkroom technician dried the film too fast. The excessive heat melted the emulsion and ruined all but the 11 frames.

- Meagan G. 10/14/2000

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War & Peace
What war did American photographer Robert Capa photograph in 1936?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Spanish Civil War

- Darleene F. 10/14/2000

One of Robert's most famous photographs was taken in Spain when he was 23.

Called "Death of a Loyalist Soldier," it shows Federico Borrell Garcia who has just been shot, falling backward with his arm outstretched--about to drop the rifle as he makes the transition from life to death. It is a moment frozen in time that the human eye could not have perceived but the camera captured on film.

- Karen 10/14/2000

He photographed the Spanish Civil War.

- Charles C. 10/14/2000

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A is for Apple, B is for ____
What does the "B" setting on most cameras stand for? Why?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

"B" stands for Bulb or "T" - It's an exposure setting on the camera. This setting makes it possible for you to keep the camera shutter open as long as you like. It's also important to have a tripod and a cable release.

- Lori M. 10/14/2000

Bulb. Shutter stays open for as long as you hold the button down.

- Doug F. 10/14/2000

B stands for Bulb which means when you set the film speed for.. whatever! Great for taking pictures of stars- after a few hours you can actually see them move on the picture!!!

- Meagan G. 10/14/2000

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Big Time
What is large format photography? What is the largest out there?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Okay, okay... Since no one answered, I guess I will admit that this was kind of a yawn as far as trivia questions go. Large format usually refers to photography that uses 4" x 5" or 8" x 10" sheets of film.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Her Bowtie is Really a Camera
Name this actress:

* Her first name sounds a little bit like a piece of photographic equipment.
* She was discovered by a photographer at age 16 in a Hollywood nightclub.
* In her debut movie, her character used a camera hidden in her purse at one point to scope out a bank.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Cameron Diaz

- Phil P. 10/14/2000

Cameron Diaz... I don't think she could find a place to put a bow tie in that red dress she wore in the Mask!

- Michael M. 10/14/2000

Cameron Diaz

- Michael B. 10/14/2000

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Nothing Better To Do
In which movie does an injured photographer get into the habit of spying on his neighbors?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The Rear Window, with Jimmy Stewart.

[Editor: there were a whooping 40 answers on this one (and 36 of them were correct).]

- Cheryll W. 10/14/2000

Rear Window.

- Mark T. 10/14/2000

Alfred Hitchcock's "Rear Window"

- Gordon E. 10/14/2000

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Most Wanted Photo
What is the most requested photo from the U.S. National Archives?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The most requested photo from the National Archives is a picture of Elvis Presley offering to help the country by being a drug enforcement agent under former President Nixon.

- Shravan Kumar S. 10/14/2000

A Photo of Elvis Pressly and Pres. Nixon

- Kim 10/14/2000

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In the Beginning...
When was the Polaroid Company formed?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Polaroid Company was formed in 1937.

- Charles C. 10/14/2000

It was founded by Edwin H. Land in 1937.

- Lori M. 10/14/2000

Edwin H. Land created the Polaroid Company in 1937.

- Susan D. 10/14/2000

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SNL
On Saturday Night Live, Stevie Wonder made fun of which camera manufacturer?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Announcer: The Kannon AE-1. So advanced, so simple, even Stevie Wonder can use it. [ shows Stevie feeling around before picking up camera ] Watch as Stevie photographs top tennis star John Newcombe.

[ Stevie takes some pictures - one of John's right shoulder, of John slanted, one with John completely out of the picture, and one of the right side of John's head. John goes up to Stevie, and Stevie takes two more pictures: an out-of-focus shot of John's head, and one of John's arm. ]
Stevie Wonder: [ hands camera to John ] Here, John, you try!
[ John takes four pictures of Stevie on the court, each one with Stevie trying unsuccessfully to hit the ball with a tennis racket ]
[ last scene shows John and Stevie taking pictures together ]
Announcer: The Kannon AE-1.
Stevie Wonder: [ putting his hand on the lens of John's camera ] So simple, anyone can use it!
[ Stevie laughs, as scene fades out ]

*Even Digital wouldn't have saved this low point in SNL history.*

Jaymes
Digital Evangelist

- Jaymes S. 10/14/2000

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The Start of Something New
Which photographer shot the first cover photo for Life magazine that debuted in 1936?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

American photographer Margaret Bourke-White took the first cover photo for Life magazine.

- Shravan Kumar S. 10/14/2000

Margaret Bourke-White shot the first cover. The picture was of Fort Peck Dam and it was dated 11/23/1936.

- Susan D. 10/14/2000

Margaret Bourke-White's shot of Grain Elevators graced the first copy of Life

- Ken W. 10/14/2000

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Suggestions
What does John Cusack's character Bryce suggest in Sixteen Candles, when he and his nerd buddy are about to take a Polaroid of Anthony Michael Hall's character, "Farmer" Ted, embracing his new girlfriend, the prom queen?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Taking the photo in black and white to capture the moment.

- Angela 10/14/2000

He claims that black and white would really capture the moment.

- Amy H. 10/14/2000

Bryce suggests they use black and white film to capture the moment. I LOVE THIS MOVIE!!!

- Ashby B. 10/14/2000

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Who Was First?
What was the first digital image editing software called?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The correct answer was PhotoMac.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Ex-Controversy
An ongoing controversy was recently settled - to some degree, at least - when what was made known about the CTX-5000?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

According to recent reports in photo industry trade magazines, the Federal Aviation Administration has approved and has installed an estimated 60 or more Invision CTX-5000 explosive material detecting scanners at major U.S. airports, with more overseas. What is different about this scanner is how it affects unprocessed photographic film.

This scanner will be used to examine all checked air travel luggage. The CTX-5000 first delivers a low-power, non-destructive X-ray scan of luggage, similar to machines already in use. However, when the CTX-5000 detects a suspicious mass, it automatically or manually turns on a laser-like intense X-ray beam which causes a 1 centimeter (about 7/16") wide fogged line on all unprocessed print film or a somewhat less destructive loss-of-density line in slide film. The higher the ISO, the greater the fog or density loss. Film users should not pack unprocessed film in their ticketed luggage. Using lead safety bags will not prevent damage from the intense CTX-5000 X-ray beam. What can the traveling public do? The Photographic and Imaging Manufacturers Association has issued this report:

"The new scanners are going to make the skies safer by inspecting checked baggage better. If your undeveloped film is checked in your luggage, it could be damaged by new airport scanners. Carry undeveloped film on the plane with you and ask for hand inspection wherever possible. If you are carrying large amounts of unprocessed film, contact the airline prior to your flight. Contact your film manufacturer if you have more questions."

Since this is a major new development for traveling photo- enthusiasts and professionals, not all the questions have been asked nor have solutions to the problems been found. There will be publicity in the mass media, photo press and on various photo and travel web sites as this situation progresses.

- Jeff L. 10/14/2000

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No Way Out
In the 1987 suspence movie, No Way Out, Kevin Costner's character has his picture taken. What kind of camera is used? Why does this picture become so important in the story?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/15/2001 4:24:37 PM

His character could become a suspect when a Polaroid negative of him was found at Susan's place. He has just a short amount a time to find the killer before his computer regenerates the photo.

- Tina S. 10/15/2001 4:24:37 PM

Tina was absolutely correct in her answer. By the way, No Way Out was a remake of a picture called The Big Clock.

- Lee 10/15/2001 4:24:37 PM

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What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up
How old was Ansel Adams when he began teaching himself how to play piano?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

It can't be 1916 as that's when he first got into photography and he was doing piano before that. I say 12yrs old as that was when his parents started home schooling and piano was one of the subjects taught at home! T.Dunn in Australia
Thanks for this Q's - if it wasn't for this I would have never have looked him up and discovered the beautiful pictures he took. Thanks again.

- Toni D. 10/14/2000

I believe he began learning the piano in 1914 at the age of 12. This was when he was removed from formal schooling and began home studies. At this point he felt he would pursue the piano as a career.

- Charles C. 10/14/2000

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Superhero Endorsements
Which film company has an endorsement on Captain Amazing's chest in the movie, Mystery Men?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/15/2001 2:50:52 PM

Captain Amazing's chest - there are advertisements bearing names such as Pennzoil, Konica, Ray-O-Vac and Reebok.

- Shravan Kumar S. 10/15/2001 2:50:52 PM

Definitely Konica.

- Jodie C. 10/15/2001 2:50:52 PM

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Happy Days
Who shot V-J Day in Times Square, the famous image of a sailor kissing a nurse?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Alfred Eisenstaedt

- Jodie C. 10/14/2000

ALFRED EISENSTAEDT. The picture of an embrace between strangers convinced Americans that history's bloodiest war-with all its terrors, privations and separations - was really over. Eisenstaedt's full-length composition give the couple a truly monumental presence. Truly, the decisive moment in photography.

- ROLAND R. 10/14/2000

Photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt shot that famous, immortal photo of the still unknown sailor kissing the nurse (Edith Shain) in Times Square on VJ Day.

- Richard J. 10/14/2000

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Global Self-Portrait
When and who shot the first photo of the planet Earth taken from space?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The first photo of the Earth taken from space occured in 1959 from the spacecraft Vanguard 2.

Cheers,
Glenn

- Glenn T. 10/14/2000

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Priorities
Which singer / songwriter once wrote the lyrics, "Too many cameras and not enough food/ 'Cause this is what we've seen?"

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The singer / songwriter is Sting. The song is "Driven to Tears" from the Zenyatta Mondatta album.

- Gregory A. 10/14/2000

Words and music by: Sting. SONG: Driven to Tears. ALBUM: Zenyatta Mondatta.

- Shravan Kumar S. 10/14/2000

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Photographer ID
Who was Frank Hurley?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Frank Hurley-Expedition photographer.
(1885-1962)
Frank Hurley, a husky, curly-haired Australian, ran away from home when he was 14.He quickly taught himself the technical aspects of photography and, using a sure eye for landscape splendor, set himself up in the postcard business.

Hurley raised expedition photography to a new level. He did not make routine photos of explorers posing in the snow. Instead, he often focused on the snow itself, or on grim snowscapes that became beautiful in his compositions.

Hurley, with the honorary rank of captain in the Australian Imperial Force, served as a frontline photographer in World War I. He took some of the war’s only known color photos—“and some,” wrote Alexander, “are small masterieces of stark, muddy misery.” Later he traveled to Papua New Guinea and Tasmania, where he photographed more in a travelogue style. He produced several books about Australia.

On January 16, 1962, at the age of 76, he came home from an assignment lugging his battered old camera case. He sat down and, uncharacteristically, said he did not feel well. He sat there all night and died next day, leaving behind a wife and three children.

- Shravan Kumar S. 10/14/2000

Frank Hurley - expedition photography hero, who photographed the Imperial Trans Antartic Expedition of 1914-1916.

rnest Shackleton, a British polar explorer, hired Frank Hurley to record, in still and moving pictures, an expedition to Antarctica, the last unexplored region on Earth. By 1914, Norway had beaten England to both the North and South poles. Now, as war loomed in Europe, Shackleton determined to win for England another polar prize: a trek across Antarctica on foot. Hoping to partly finance the expedition through advance sale of photographic, movie, and story rights, Shackleton hired Hurley.

By seeking beauty in icy bleakness, Hurley changed expedition photography forever. Instead of routinely recording day-by-day activities, Hurley chose to tell a dramatic story. He produced a saga that endures in his stunning photographs.

(taken from the Kodak web site)

- Nathan A. 10/14/2000

James Francis Hurley 1885 -1962. Australian photographer and adventurer. Went to the Antarctic with Mawson and was one of the magnetic pole party who established a sledging record of 41 miles in a day. He then joined Shackleton on his ill fated Endurance expedition to the Antarctic in 1914-17. When the ship was crushed he dived into the freezing water to save his negatives. He was one of the men left behind on Elephant Island while Shackleton and five of his men risked all on their epic 800 mile voyage to South Georgia in an open boat. Was official Australian war photographer in both world wars, filmed in New Guinea and central Australia, and in 1928 made the first flight from Australia to Athens. Was again in the Antarctic with Mawson 1929 - 31.

- Vincent L. 10/14/2000

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Inventions
What was invented in the 1880's that greatly helped newspapers reproduce photographs?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The HALFTONE PROCESS. On January 21, 1897, the New York Tribune published the first halftone reproduction of a picture to appear in a mass circulation daily paper. It was a rather dull photograph of Thomas C. Platt, a New Yorker who has just been elected in the US Senate. The aim then was to find some way of reproducing on newsprint the grays-or halftones-of photogaphic images. The solution was to use a ruled glass screen to break up the image into myriads of dots, some tiny, some large.

- ROLAND R. 10/14/2000

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The Immortal Bard... Words, Words, Words
Name three or more commonly accepted definitions for the term 'resolution'.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

1) To promise to do something, or a course of action decided on. As in New Year's resolution.

2) The closure of a problem. As in our resolution to this problem is listed here.

3) The property of being able differentiate fine detail in a picture. As in, this picture has a fine resolution

4) In science, to separate either chemicals or energy into constituent parts.

There are plenty more derivatives of the above, for example,

a) Used as an adjective, "His resolution is great", describing someone's quality in staying with a chosen path

Whoa, that's a lot of meaning to a single word. No wonder computers can't do translations properly.

- Ken P. 10/14/2000

1.Separation into components, de-composition, analysis.
2.Conversion into another form.
3.Substitution of two short syllables
for one long.
4.Replacing of single force by two or
more which are jointly equivalent.
5.Formal expression of opinion by
public meeting.
6.Resolve,thing resolve on,determined
temper or character, boldness, and
firmness of purpose.

- BERNARD W. 10/14/2000

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Something New in Development
What year was the Polaroid Land Camera introduced? What is the story behind the invention of the Polaroid - who came up with the idea and why? How was did it come to see the light of day?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Edwin Land invented the Polaroid Camera as a response to his daughter's desire to see their vacation photos right away.

Instant, or self-processing, photography was invented by the American Edwin H. Land. He introduced the Polaroid Land camera in 1947, and a color version became available in 1963

After exposure, the negative, in contact with the positive, is drawn through rollers which break a pod of developing chemicals, squeezing them on to the sensitised surfaces. In ten seconds, the print appears developed and fixed.

Thanks to the impatience of one little girl, the whole photographic industry changed its tune.

- Shravan Kumar S. 10/14/2000

After the World War II, Dr. EDWIN HERBERT LAND, invented the product that brought Polaroid lasting fame-the instant camera. Inspiration for the camera came from his daughter who, during a family vacation, wanted to see pictures taken earlier in the day. Land began work on a camera that could produce a finished print moments after exposure. He unveiled his breakthrough at a meeting of the Optical Society of America on February 21, 1947. One minute after taking a picture, he peeled away a specially coated backing to reveal the finished print.

POLAROID (with patent no. 2,543,181) came to see the light of day on November 26, 1948 when it was sold for the first time.

- ROLAND R. 10/14/2000

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Fair Exchange
What did Louis Jaques Mandé Daguerre get from the French government for disclosing his secret photographic process to the public?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

A lifetime pension

- Ken W. 10/14/2000

In 1835, Daguerre casually put away in a cupboard an exposed iodized silver plate which had not shown traces of an image. When he opened the cupboard he found a developed image on the plate. By 1837, he had standardized the process, using silvered copper plates coated with iodine vapor and developing the latent image by putting the plate over heated mercury. It was made permanent simply by washing in hot solution of cooking salt. In July 1839, he sold his invention - the DAGUERREOTYPE - to the French government and was guaranteed an annual pension of 6,000 francs for life.

- ROLAND R. 10/14/2000

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Poetic Preface
Which poet wrote the preface to the 1959 American edition of Robert Frank's influential photography book, The Americans?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Answer: Jack Kerouac

Why Kerouac (for the American edition)?
Robert Frank, under a Guggenheim Fellowship, had toured the U.S. by car in 1955 and photographed post-war American culture. Kerouac was an immensely popular American writer when the American edition of Frank's book was published in 1959.

Kerouac's great Beat novel, "On the Road" had finally been published two years prior in 1957, and had propelled him to fame after years of rejection. Kerouac's book about several adventurous "road trips" across the U.S. was really a semi-fictional account of Kerouac's actual post-war travels across the American continent. It paralleled in prose what Robert Frank's book did with photographs. It was only fitting that Kerouac should write its preface!

-- John

- John L. 10/14/2000

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Viking Images
The Viking 1, 2 made the first pictures shot from which planet's surface in 1976?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/15/2000

Viking Lander 1 took the first picture from the surface of Mars on July 20 1976

- neil 10/15/2000

Viking 1 was launched on August 20, 1975. It was propelled through space for about 10 months and entered the Martian orbit on June 19, 1976. About one month later, July 20, 1976, Lander1 touched down on the slope of a dry basin in the region called Chryse Planitia. Meanwhile the Orbiter for Viking 1 was orbiting Mars and collecting data on the Martian atmosphere like surface temperature, wind speed, etc.

The Orbiter for both missions was equipped mainly with cameras for selecting a landing sight, later mapping the planet and photographing the two moons. It also had equipment for sensing surface and atmosphere temperature. The Orbiter flew very close to the planet to gather information "as close as 298km(185mi)" They also made extremely close passes with the two moons PHOBOS and DEIMOS to get detailed photography of their surfaces and calculations of their masses based on their effects on the orbiters trajectories.

- Daniel O. 10/15/2000

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Habitual Photography
In which movie does Harvey Keitel play a character who takes one photograph from the same street corner every day?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Smoke

- ficp05 10/14/2000

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Family of Man
What was the final photograph in the Family of Man exhibition?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

"The Walk to Paradise Garden," 1946,
by W. Eugene Smith, a photographer for Time/Life.

-- John
P.S. It was also reportedly the most viewed photograph at the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art among all of the 503 (??) photographs that made up the exhibition.

P.P.S. One more piece of trivia about this very famous (and IMO phenomenal) photograph:
It was made by Smith in Croton, New York, and the two subjects are W. Eugene Smith's children, Patrick and Juanita.

- John L. 10/14/2000

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What's in a Name?
Which of the following is not named after a person: a Kodak camera, the Eastman House, a silhouette, or a Land Camera?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

KODAK CAMERA!

1. Silhouette is Etinenne de Silhouette, a French finance minister in the mid-18th century. He retire and practiced stinginess at home by using cheap black paper cututs in place of conventional decorations. And he raised extra money by making portraits with the same technique.

2. Eastman-George Eastman, an American inventor, marketed the first handy Kodak camera in 1888.

3. Land-Dr. Edwin Land-invented the Polaroid instant developing process and founder of the first electronic shutter

MY ANSWER: not named after a person? A KODAK CAMERA Eastman chose the name because it was "short, vigorous, could not be misspelt and, to satisfy trademark laws, meant nothing"

Have a nice day to all

- ROLAND R. 10/14/2000

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Bargain or Rip-Off
In David Mamet's The Spanish Prisoner, how much does Steve Martin offer Campbell Scott for his camera?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Jimmy Dell (Steve Martin) offers to buy Joe's camera for a thousand dollars with the same matter-of-fact, straightforward delivery one would expect of someone asking to borrow a pencil.

- Gary B. 10/14/2000

Yes - correct. I find it a bit surprising that Campbell Scott's character, Joe, gets so angry and just gives him the camera. I mean, I would take the $1000 and go buy a better camera. But that's just me...

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Side Consulting Business
Ansel Adams was a consultant for which major film company when they first started out?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Kodak

- Hermann G. 10/14/2000

The answer I was looking for was Polaroid...

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Classically Low Paying
Who said "I can't afford to hate anybody; I'm only a photographer" and what (classic) movie did she say this in?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The first person to answer this trivia question correctly will be sent a free BetterPhoto.com t-shirt.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The Philadelphia Story

Ruth Hussey (Elizabeth Imbrie)

- cindy 10/14/2000

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Oh... K-what?
What does K-14 refer to in the photographic world?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

K-14 is the process used to develop Kodachrome; the only commercial slide film still around with no colour couplers in the emulsion (each colour is processed one after another, by development and then fogging of the film with that colour's opposite). Not to be confused with E-6, the processing method for slide films with colour couplers built in to the emulsion.

- Mr. Turner 10/14/2000

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Repeat Visitor
After convincing his parents to go on vacation to __________ when he was just a kid, Ansel Adams fell so in love with the area that he returned every year for the rest of his life.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Yosemite

- kdailey 10/14/2000

yep, its Yosemite.

- dave b. 10/14/2000

oh... yup, yup it is of course Yosemite. I am the winner. hehe:)
Where is my goodie at. Send it to me NOW. LOVE YA LOTS:p

- audrey 10/14/2000

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Making Files
Name the image file format acronym whose second letter stands for 'Image' and which was developed by Aldus (now Adobe).

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

I believe the answer is TIFF which stands for Tagged Image File Format.

- Romen V. 10/14/2000

I am sure it is TIFF

- John Q. 10/14/2000

It is TIFF and TIFF alone. No second thoughts on that score.

- Anand M. 10/14/2000

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Inspirations
Ansel Adams decided he wanted to become a concert pianist when he was 23 but, after meeting a great photographer, he changed his mind and decided to go full-time with photography. Who was the photographer?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Paul Strand. They met at a party. Paul Strand showed him 4 x 5 negatives. Adams says, 'My understanding of photography was crystalized that afternoon as I realized the great potential of the medium as an expressive art. I returned to San Francisco resolved that the camera, not the piano would shape my destiny...'

- dave b. 10/14/2000

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Privacy Policy
The quote, "Of all the filthy ideas! Coming into a private house with a camera... ugh!" comes from which movie?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The Philadelphia Story.

I love that movie!

- Jon C. 10/14/2000

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Look into my Eyes
By photographing the eyes of murder victims, what did early students of forensics hope to determine?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Perpertrator. It is said that the last image a person sees is left on the retina of the eye. (Doesn't work for someone stabbed in the back).

- Paul C. 10/14/2000

They believed that last thing the murder victim see remains on the retina. So they hope to determine who was the murderer.

- eugeneb 10/14/2000

It was believed that the last thing a person saw while in an extreme emotional state would be captured on the retina. Hopefully, it would be the murderer.

- Nancy B. 10/14/2000

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Not American Photographic Society
What does APS stand for?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

Advanced Photographic System

- Keith E. 10/14/2000

Advanced Photographic System

- Ken W. 10/14/2000

Well, just to be different ;-)

Advanced Photo System

- Jon C. 10/14/2000

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Even the Masters Have Masters
Name a master black and white nature photographer who assisted Ansel Adams in his early days?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

John Sexton. Learn more about a couple of his beautiful books:

Quiet Light

Listen to the Trees

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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Best-Selling Book
According to American Photography: A Century of Images, what book is the best-selling photography book to this day?

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

The Family of Man, by Edward Steichen, a companion book to the most visited photographic exhibition of all time. The Family of Man exhibition ended up traveling to thirty-eight countries.

Read more about the book and the event on page 139 of American Photography: A Century of Images by Vicki Goldberg & Robert Silberman.

- Jim Miotke
BetterPhoto.com
10/14/2000

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