During the 70’s, a “Hay Day for Amateur Photography” existed due to rapid advancements in technology and the lifting of the Fair Trade Act.The later allowing individuals to import photographic equipment without stripping off the mfg.'s name at customs. As a result, camera stores began reducing the price of imported cameras and lenses. New milestones in the development of portable electronic flash equipment also provided new dimensions in flash photography for professionals and amateurs alike. Automatic Exposure! Most of the patents for this technology were owned by Ponder and Best, later to become known as The Vivitar Corporation based in Santa Monica, CA. New ideas for Photographic Products were designed in Santa Monica then manufactured and produced in Japan.

I became involved in this era of development around the time of the release of the film, Star Wars, and had the opportunity to design several innovative Electronic Flash Systems, resulting in my being awarded the Commemorative Eagle and a U. S. patent on Flash Design. While at Vivitar, I developed a basic curriculum of Photographic Instruction for Vivitar's Engineering Staff which proved to be a great boon in the Design Process of New Products. A Member of the New Products Design Group, I also developed several Product Ideas relating to Color Management in the Darkroom. Yes, Color Management and "White Balance" are pre-digital subjects. Ever heard of Opal Glass?
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