The international photographer (Jan-Dec 1935)

February, 1935 The INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER Twenty-nine means of entertainment challenging the radio in its universal applications. What of the future of 16 mm. sound-film ? As a matter of fact, its future has already been firmly assured. Its present status is far ahead of that of the 35 mm. at a corresponding stage of development. Whereas the 35 mm. sound-film had to start from nothing, and an entirely new art, science, and manufactured product had to be developed, 16 mm. sound has but to follow closely in the footsteps already carved by its older and bigger brother. It should never seek to compete in the professional amusement field, but will doubtless completely encompass the entire non-theatrical field. As any 35 mm. negative is capable of making 16 mm. reduction prints of quality comparable with their size, it is evident that any great film epic can be made available if the demand should justify it. Many of the greatest silent pictures were reproduced on 16 mm. film, and it is already evident that the 16 mm. sound-film will enjoy a popularity never imagined in the silent field. But future progress will be dependent upon the equipment manufacturers. The film reproduction problems are solved. Projectors must be perfected to such a state that no skill is required and adjustments shall seldom be necessary ; made so simple that any member of the family or any school boy can operate them successfully ; so silent and unobtrusive as to become a piece of household furniture, like the phonograph or radio. The present frequency response must be broadened so as to achieve sound reproduction on a par, at least, with that now attained in the average theatre. And, perhaps most important of all, ultimate success will depend upon the cost of the equipment and its film service. First Vice-President Roy Klaffki, of Local 659, has an eagle's nest away up in the Sierras that can be reached only by plane. It's a wonderful place, with plenty of wood and water and garden land and maybe some colors in the pan. Who knows? Len Powers has been keeping his cinematographic hand in by shooting some stuff for the Theatrical Unit of the S.E.R.A. "Sharazade," Fred Archer's beautiful exhibit at the Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain, London, will appear in an early edition of The International Photographer. Mr. Archer will lecture again this year at Will Connell's Art Center School of Photography. Art Marion, famous fabricator of stills, is a new member of the Board of Executives of Local 659. Hal Mohr and bride, the lovely Miss Venable, have returned from their honeymoon to resume studio work. J. O. Taylor is giving his entire time to special process work. Al Rockett, one of the finest and most efficient producers, has purchased his contract from Fox to engage in production for himself. He plans to be back in the harness within the next six months and in the meantime is touring the Orient with Mrs. Rockett. The Mechanical Needs of the Industry Manufacturing Motion Picture Equipment Developing Machines Laboratory Equipment General Machine and Engineering Work Under Water Camera Equipment Special Projection Equipment Synchronizing Devices Optical Printers Camera Booms Miniatures "Props" H. W. HOUSTON CO. 1041 NO. SYCAMORE AVE., HOLLYWOOD, CALIF. HEmpstead 6732 Please mention The International Photographer when corresponding with advertisers.