1960
APRIL 21–24
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
Kansas City, Missouri, was the place, and the Hotel President was the headquarters. Hosts for this big CC revival
meeting were Eldon Alexander, Laurence Blaker, and Louis Garcia. Secretary Alvin Duis wrote a letter to the
members urging them to attend the meeting. He said it was vital that everyone share ideas that would ensure
the future of Cameracraftsmen. This last appeal for attendance really worked. Twenty-eight men and 24 ladies
attended, a much better attendance than any meeting of the last five years.
On April 21 the hosts held a gala cocktail party and buffet supper at the hotel. Everyone got caught up on
“Long-time-no-see-talk.”
The next morning Mr. Roe Bartle, mayor of Kansas City, gave a short welcoming speech that pleased
everyone. The first program was by John Platz on Ektacolor, followed by Ken Wright on “Better Copies.”
In the afternoon there was a program by Arch Maulsby, who was not a member of Cameracraftsmen. This
local photographer’s program was “Cameraside Manners.” Maurice LaClaire gave a fine color demonstration
for the balance of the afternoon. In the evening they enjoyed a big steak dinner at the Golden Ox Restaurant
in the stockyard area.
Gerhard Bakker, Saturday morning, presented a slide show on composition. Then Mills Steele talked about
color photography of women. In the afternoon Ulrich Meisel presented a two-hour program entitled “Do’s and
Don’ts in Color Photography.”
The annual banquet was held that evening in the Aztec Room of the hotel, and Paul Gittings was the afterdinner speaker. Paul’s speech was along the lines of his previous letters to the membership. “We now needed
a structured organization for our future growth” he said. “A simple club secretary is not enough to keep our
club moving ahead.” He stressed again that we needed a purpose, a goal. In his closing remarks, he said he
believed the Cameracraftsmen was the greatest private photographic organization in the world and should be
a moving force in the industry.
On Sunday, April 24, the final business meeting started at 10:00 A.M. There was much discussion about the
club’s future; the business meeting lasted until 2:00 P.M. Three new members were accepted: Bob Ball of
Corvalis, Oregon; Bill Shields of Clinton, South Carolina; and Ulrich Meisel of Texas. Members Worley, Duis,
and Meyer invited the club to Denver for the 1961 meeting next year, and the members unanimously accepted.
When the members received a copy of the minutes of the 1960 meeting, there was enclosed a letter from
member Lou Garcia:
The 1960 Meeting of Cameracraftsmen is now history. Admitting to possible bias, I feel that the meeting
was a complete success. Our attendance was good, although we missed some of our outstanding members.
The talk by Paul Gittings at the banquet gave us food for thought. The business meeting and the ideas
expressed by many of our members at the banquet brought out a diversity of ideas that all in all indicated
to me that there is much life and interest in our group. That there should be such difference of opinion, is
not at all unhealthy.
Since the meeting I have had time to give the issue considerable thought. Out of this has come the realization that we need not sacrifice the past and present concept of Cameracraftsmen to make it a strong force in
our profession. It is not necessary to change the organization, or even desirable to do so. We can become
more than just a good fellowship organization. Why not retain the warm fellowship and also take on some
71
Louis Garcia
of the projects which some members feel are desirable. We can take our place as a rightful force for progress
in photography.
Two committees were appointed at our business meeting, one to study membership and one for projects
planning. The Membership Committee is to study plans to help screen members who would be desirable, as
well as ones who would benefit the club by being active and not just attending the meetings.
The Projects Planning Committee, of which I am chairman, will study the ideas submitted and within
ninety days, I will submit to the secretary a report for the membership. I sincerely hope the members will give
due consideration to this report so that action can be taken.
In conclusion, I am proud of being a Cameracraftsman. I consider it to be the highest honor I have ever
received—to be invited to membership in this wonderful group. I hope to live to see the day when it will be
an even greater honor than it is today. I pledge my personal efforts to help make this club the outstanding
leader of progress in our profession. I know that many of you feel the same way.
Lou Garcia
1961
APRIL 13–15
Gene Claseman
DENVER, COLORADO
After the stirring letter from Lou Garcia following last year’s meeting, most members were stimulated. All of
them seemed to take a renewed interest in the club. Secretary Duis was optimistic about the future when they
gathered for the 1961 meeting in Denver. At this time of year Denver is beautiful, and the air is crystal-clear in
this mile-high city.
The hospitality room was located on the 19th floor of the new Denver Hilton Hotel, and this corner suite
afforded a sweeping view of the city in two directions. The hosts for this meeting were Ben Meyer, Alvin Duis, and
Glen Worley. Host Glen Worley had arranged for each CC member to get a 6:30 A.M. wake-up call. There would
be no excuse for any member not attending the business session at 9:00 A.M. At this business meeting there was
much discussion about membership and also about delinquent members who have not paid their fines.
On motion by Helgeson the club dropped from membership Paul Gittings, Jr., because he had not attended
a meeting since he was voted into membership in 1957 and had not paid any fines. At 10:30 A.M., the first
program started with Wendell Powell on “Bridal Portraiture.” This was one of Wendell’s best presentations, and
during lunch, which followed, he received many compliments.
In the afternoon Gene Claseman entertained with his program, “Portraiture of Men.” He discussed his special
projection background techniques, did lighting and posing demonstrations, and showed direct color portraits.
His portraits of fine flesh tones and balance “portrays strength and ruddiness for wide customer appeal.”
At 3:00 P.M. they had the annual print criticism. Most of the remarks were constructive.
At 7:00 P.M., they all went out to Taylor’s Supper Club on West Colfax Avenue for a delicious dinner and
some wild and wooly entertainment. According to one member, it was a riotous success!
On Friday, April 14, there were three programs in the morning. Marv Helgesen gave an unexpurgated
spiel on “Teenage Boys and Girls” school pictures, followed by Bob Ball’s, Lawton Osborn’s and Fonville
Winans’ programs.
In the afternoon there was a business panel discussion. Laurence Blaker was the chairman and many business trends were discussed. One heated question asked, “Why do magazines often use inferior photographs of
prominent people?” Most photographers won’t go out and make on-the-job portraits, which the magazines
72
and our subjects want.
On Saturday morning the second business meeting convened at 9:00 A.M. Historian Laurence Blaker gave
a report and said there was practically no recorded information about the Cameracraftsmen prior to 1930. The
“Seven Ages of Childhood” plan was thoroughly discussed, and member Paul Gittings did most of the talking.
He was the driving force when this plan was first announced in 1959. Only a few members were not happy with
this plan, and Paul said they were diehards incapable of forward thinking. It was decided to invite former
members Frank Pechman and Wes Bowman to rejoin the club. The members missed these two fine gentlemen
and wanted them back. Next year’s meeting was determined by a loud voice vote to go to Richmond, Virginia.
Alvin Duis was on after the second business meeting with a program called “There’s More Money in Silk
Purses Than in Leather Bags.” Ken Carson of the Eastman Kodak Company gave his presentation, “A Lighting
Demonstration for Color Photography.” The banquet dinner was a culinary delight with excellent entertainment by the “Denveraires,” a barbershop quartet version with progressive overtones.
1962
APRIL 15–18
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA
The members of Cameracraftsmen were excited about the 1962 meeting because the hosts, Carl Blakeslee,
Wendell Powell, and Mills Steele promised a side trip to old Williamsburg. The historic town of Williamsburg
has been restored as it was 200 years ago.
A big change is underway in the club. Two years ago the club’s future was a bit uncertain, but now there is
renewed spirit since the last two meetings. Former energetic members Frank Pechman and Wesley Bowman have
returned to assist Secretary Alvin Duis in changes to revitalize the club. The rules for accepting new members are
being changed, and there is new enthusiasm by the members to help improve and advance the club.
In the group photographs of the 1962 meeting, we count 27 members in the group of men and nineteen
in the group of ladies. All are well dressed and smiling. The Jefferson Hotel was the headquarters for this
Richmond, Virginia, meeting. Wendell Powell was the host.
At 6:30 P.M., the CC motored in a group to the Country Club of Virginia for a cocktail party and buffet
supper. It was a charming atmosphere with southern hospitality. Everyone was in a festive mood. The next
morning, Monday, April 16, the first business meeting started at 9:00 A.M. The usual reading of minutes and
reports of committees, were accepted. Only one name was voted on for membership. The vote was unanimous,
73
Jefferson Hotel meeting headquarters, 1962
Frank Pechman
and Les Tompsett of South Bend, Indiana, was accepted.
Frank Pechman talked about getting new members. He said we needed younger, more active men. Some
of the old members could be moved up to honorary life membership. The average age of our members is now
58 years. Frank promised to help revise our rules regarding new members.
Laurence Blaker, named club historian two years before, said it was going to be a Herculean job to put all
of the bits and pieces together for a volume about our history. Frank and Henry Free, together with Winton
Medlar, were appointed to assist Laurence.
After the business meeting, Frank Pechman presented a program “What’s Ahead?” Frank really fired up the
members. They were glad to have Frank back in the club. In the afternoon Paul Gittings presented, “Garden
Portraiture,” at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Wheldon. In this outdoor portrait session, Paul showed the secret of
how he makes those beautiful portraits.
He uses a blue flash bulb in sync with his camera at 1/50 at f:8. The flash bulb is used to brighten the
subject’s face in this outdoor scene; the film exposure is adjusted for daylight.
In the evening they adjourned to Wright’s Country House, a popular restaurant, for dinner and dancing.
On Tuesday, April 17, the CC left the hotel at 8:00 A.M. by bus for Colonial Williamsburg. They arrived just
before lunch, and viewed a twenty-minute movie about Williamsburg titled “The Patriot.” The afternoon was
left open for sightseeing so everyone could enjoy the shops and public buildings. They enjoyed a colonial-type
dinner at the “King’s Arms” in Williamsburg, then returned by bus to Richmond.
On Wednesday Laurence Blaker gave a very interesting, illustrated talk about the rewards of being a professional photographer in your community. The second business meeting reported that member Lou Hruska had
sold his studio and retired. By acclamation, the group moved him to honorary life member. Invitations were
read about where our meeting would be held next year. Claseman wanted it to be Sioux Falls, South Dakota;
Hruska wanted us to come to Reno, Nevada; Garcia made a pitch for Kansas City. After the vote was counted,
Kansas City was the winner.
There were two afternoon programs, the first a 2:00 P.M. business panel by Pechman, Blaker, and Gittings.
During this program the attendees learned how to create new business, sell larger orders, realize greater profits,
and invest their surplus profits wisely. The second program was “Glorifying the American Girl in Color” by
Courneye Tourcotte. This was a crowd-pleasing program, and Courneye received much applause.
1963
APRIL 9–12
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
Thirty-nine active members are listed in the 1963 meeting program, plus two associate and twelve life members.
There are 34 men in the Kansas City meeting photograph. The hosts were Les Tompsett, Laurence Blaker, and
Lou Garcia. The big Hotel President was the gathering place for this meeting, and the CC started arriving in the
early afternoon. The hosts’ party started at 6:00 P.M. There is a lot of spirit and camaraderie among the
membership at these yearly meetings. Everyone enjoys the company and attention of all who are present.
Next morning, Wednesday, April 10, the first program was presented by Jason Hailey of Los Angeles. He was
billed as an outstanding young illustrator. His talk and slide presentation was very inspiring, and he was given
a standing ovation.
After lunch, member Fonville Winans expounded for two hours on the small 35-millimeter camera and
candid photography. His program was well received for he is a crowd-pleaser, but few, if any, in the audience
74
were willing to accept the small-sized cameras.
The first business meeting lasted until 5:30. The Membership Committee reported that after considerable
discussion of proposed new members, only one name was put up for a vote. That candidate was Bill Carrier, Jr.
of Memphis, Tennessee, and he was accepted unanimously, bringing the active membership to forty. The
following year’s meeting invitations were extended: Sioux Falls, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and Dallas. It was
decided that we would go next year to Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
The first program was by a CC favorite, Glen Worley. He spoke about school work and how he makes those
beautiful portraits of students. Following Glen, Paul Gittings had an excellent slide show entitled “Do’s and
Don’ts in Portraiture.”
Gerhard Bakker presented a new show entitled “Is Art Necessary in Photography?” He stressed the importance of set decoration, props, and color harmony in compositions, emphasizing that more and more photographs are judged on an artistic point of view. The next program was a sales panel with members Worley,
Winans, Blaker, and Bakker. The panel was supposed to answer questions about how the members could
increase sales of their products. Some of the members’ wives in the audience had better ideas than the panel.
And the panel members turned the show over to the women in the audience.
The banquet night and the festivities started at 6:30 P.M. with the usual cocktail hour. After the banquet,
Mills Steele presented a lively program with live models! It was the highlight of the evening.
On Friday morning, April 12, Wes Bowman gave an excellent program about commercial photography,
followed by a surprise program featuring John Platz and Max Autrey. These two glamour photographers
showed how they would photograph the same blonde model.
After lunch the second business meeting was taken up with discussion of a letter Paul Gittings had sent to
all the members. In this letter he stressed the idea that Cameracraftsmen must have a purpose, a goal, if they
are to survive. The present club, he said, was too social, and we need a worthwhile project.
Nearly everyone at this business meeting voiced their opinions. Ulrich Meisel agreed in part with Paul, but
said the CC should not compete with the Winona School. It would be far better, he said, if the CC would sponsor
their own photographic show and send out invitations for photographers to enter, giving the club publicity and
recognition. This stirred up the members. Many of the old-timers said they didn’t want the publicity but would
rather be as they always had been—quiet, reserved, and unknown. During the last three CC meetings, the
specter of what the CC should do—a club project, goal, or purpose for being—continued to spring up. This
topic generated a great deal of discussion, a lot of suggestions, heated arguments, and a few vitriolic letters
between the members. Then when it appears the rebellion is about to crest, it fades away with nothing accomplished or changed. The members thanked the hosts, Les, Laurence, and Lou, for a job well done, and
concluded that this Kansas city meeting was filled with good progress and rewarding fellowship.
1964
APRIL 8–10
SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA
The hosts for this meeting—Winton Medlar, Oscar Graveson, Gene Claseman, and Fred Smith—planned a
great meeting, which included almost a full day of discussion on the future of Cameracraftsmen.
The meeting hosts’ party was arranged at the Sioux Falls Country Club.
The first program began at their headquarters hotel, The Cataract. This program was “Business and
Advertising Panel” and featured members Robert Ball, Laurence Blaker, Frank Pechman, and Marv Helgeson.
75
William Carrier, Jr.
Gerhard Bakker
Many attendees took notes on the new ideas that were expressed.
The first club business meeting noted that 28 active members and two honorary members were present. The
Treasurer’s Report by Alvin Duis, who is also club secretary, was read and approved. His books were audited by
Bob Ball and Mills Steele, and found O.K. Clarence Bull was transferred from active to honorary life membership. Many times different members tried to get some answers to the big question, “How about the future of
Cameracraftsmen?” Chairman Winton Medlar kept order by repeating that these questions would be fully
discussed at a special program on the last day. Invitations for the 1965 meeting were made by Autrey, Bull, and
Platz for Los Angeles and by Meisel and Gittings for Dallas. After a close vote it was decided to hold the next
meeting in Dallas.
At 1:30 in the afternoon everyone journeyed to Gene Claseman’s studio to hear Gene Botsford. His program
was entitled “Importance of Make-up in Color Photography of Women,” and included live models. Film negatives were made before and after. This three-hour program pleased everyone, and Gene received much
applause and many compliments. Gene sold his studio and will join Kodak. The CC group photographs of
members and wives at this meeting were taken shortly after 4:30 P.M. Then everyone went back to their hotel
rooms to freshen up for dinner at the famous Westward Ho Restaurant.
On Thursday, April 9, the entire morning was used for demonstrations about “Photography of Men.”
Laurence Blaker, Glen Worley, and Maurice LaClaire volunteered to show how they photograph men. The
subject for this exhibition was Ulric Meisel. Ulric grumbled a bit about being selected as a model, but he was
inwardly flattered and enjoyed the attention.
In the afternoon Max Autrey, Mills Steele, and John Platz showed how they photograph women. This presentation was well attended. The final program of the day was by Wes Bowman and named “An Illustrator’s
Point of View.”
The annual meeting banquet was held at the Cataract Hotel, and all of the CC dressed in their finest. The
banquet was preceded by a cocktail hour starting at 6:30 P.M. The food was outstanding. They dined on delicious ten-ounce steaks with baked potatoes and corn on the cob. After the meal, the hosts took turns telling
humorous stories while the tables were cleared, the five-piece orchestra played Western music, favored at the
time, and everyone danced. It was a big night of fun.
The final day of this meeting was at Gene Claseman’s studio. Ulric Meisel gave a short talk entitled “Color
Made Easy.” Since he was heavily involved in the color lab business, he had a lot of answers. At 10:30 A.M. the
final program included any unfinished business but mainly was intended to discuss the future of
Cameracraftsmen and perhaps photography in general.
Earlier in 1964, Paul Gittings had written a four-page letter to all members explaining his views about the
sad condition of the club. He said, “Mainly we must establish a worthwhile club project immediately, and a
long-term goal for the future. Otherwise, the club will wither and die.” Paul did not attend this 1964 meeting.
But his letter was thoroughly discussed, and nearly everyone had something to say about the future of the club.
Some members didn’t want any changes; they liked the club just as it was. Others wanted big changes so we
could be recognized nationally. Frank Pechman finally suggested that the secretary send out letter-ballots to
the members, and the members could vote on the several ideas that had been suggested.
Under membership, three names were proposed: Jason Hailey, Richard Hinman, and Ken Cook. They were
each voted upon separately. Rule #17 requires that if a candidate gets three or more negative votes, he is
rejected. No new member was elected this year. It was recommended that the Membership Committee continue
76
investigating these candidates, and resubmit their names next year.
It was a thought-provoking meeting generating new enthusiasm and directions for the club. Hosts
Claseman, Graverson, Medlar, and Smith were profoundly thanked for the fine food, hospitality and programs
extending the meaning of the fellowship gatherings.
One month after the Sioux Falls meeting, Secretary Duis sent a notice to all members of the sudden passing
of member Mills Steele. He was 51 years old. This was a stunning blow for the Cameracraftsmen, the state that
was so proud of his accomplishments, and his friends across the nation. Mills had been very active in the Sioux
Falls meeting that had just concluded. He was an outstanding photographer, a respected and revered member
of Cameracraftsmen, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
In a letter dated January 27, 1965, which Secretary Alvin Duis sent to all members, he outlines several
proposals to strengthen the club. He says that Rule #17—about a candidate being rejected if he receives three
or more negative votes—should be thrown out. He said it should be changed to read: “If a candidate gets twothirds or three-fourths of the qualified vote, he will be invited to become a member. If any members know of
any reason why a candidate would not be a worthy member, it should be brought before the club and discussed
before the vote.” Alvin says this change is most important to prevent what happened last year in Sioux Falls.
He said that every member, in order to hold his membership, must attend at least sixty percent of the meetings, which include the current meeting and the last four meetings. He suggested we should set up a “senior
active” classification to take care of members who no longer take photographs. They would have all of the
privileges, but would be excused from paying the no-print fine. The following names will be placed in nomination for membership in Cameracraftsmen when we next meet in Dallas: Richard Hinman, Jason Hailey,
Kenneth Cook, and Joel Strasser.
It was a thought provoking meeting generating new enthusiasm and directions for the club. Hosts
Clasman, Graverson, Medlar and Smith were profoundly thanked for the fine food, hospitality and programs
extending the meaning of fellowship gatherings.
1965
MARCH 26–29
DALLAS, TEXAS
The 1965 meeting in Dallas, Texas, was at the Adolphus Hotel. Members arrived in Dallas on Friday, March 26,
and most of them attended the only planned event of the day: the hosts’ party in the evening at the Dallas
Athletic Club. Hosts for this event were Ulric Meisel and Paul Gittings.
On Saturday, March 27, the first business meeting was held at 8:30 A.M., in the Civic Room of the hotel. The
Membership Committee reported that Joel Strasser withdrew his name, leaving just three candidates for the
three available openings. The secretary’s proposal that Rule #17 be changed from “three unfavorable rejects”
to “two-thirds of the vote elects” was unanimously accepted.
Also approved: Members must attend sixty percent of the meetings, and a senior active classification. At 9:30
A.M., they adjourned so everyone could participate in the program, “A Day with Gittings.” They left by bus to
see the three Gittings studios and exhibits in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area. Later in the afternoon they returned
to the hotel to hear “The Philosophy of Studio Location,” “Sale of Picture Galleries to Industry,” and “Style
and Line in Portraiture” by Arthur Heitzman of the Gittings organization.
The annual banquet was held in the evening at the famous Chaparral Club, 36 stories above downtown
Dallas. A footnote on the meeting program read, “Cocktails at 6:30 p.m.—dinner considerably later, in case
77
you have been wondering.”
This banquet was typically Texas-style. A ten-course meal was served, and was delicious! Most CC had never
experienced such a culinary masterpiece. The best descriptive word would be “sumptuous”!
Sunday, March 28, there were five programs for the day, starting at 8:30 A.M.. including: “A Glimpse of the
Future,” “Spray for Protection and Texture,” and “Backgrounds for Color.” The evening was left open so
members could sample the culinary and entertainment opportunities in Dallas.
The final business meeting started at 8:30 A.M., March 29, chaired by Laurence Blaker.
The three proposed candidates for membership were unanimously elected. They were Richard Hinman of
Miami, Florida; Jason Hailey of Los Angeles, California; and Kenneth Cook of Salinas, California.
At mid-morning, members and wives toured the MPC Color Lab (owned by Ulric Meisel) to study phases of
color correction, color printing, and finishing. Techniques for copying, shooting under fluorescent lighting,
and balancing inter-negative material were demonstrated and explained.
Following the meeting, on March 30 Paul Gittings invited Maurice LaClaire to a committee in proposing
a “new plateau of professional recognition” and establishing the Photography Hall of Fame.
1966
MARCH 23–26
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
The hosts were Max Autrey, Robert Ball, Clarence Bull, Louis Hruska, and John Platz. Although Los Angeles
was officially listed for this meeting, it was actually held in Hollywood at Gene Autry’s Continental Hotel. One
of the most beautiful hotels in the area, the room rates at this time in 1966 were $12.00 per single and $15.00
per double!
The programs included movie stars and Playboy “Bunnies.” There were also programs by great names in
photography who were not CC members, plus a tour of a movie studio. The club secretary had predicted it
would be the best attended meeting we have ever had.
At 9:00 A.M. on Thursday, March 24, CC members and their ladies boarded a large bus for the trip to the
movie studio, and everyone was excited. They were given a tour of the Universal International Studio. They
were treated as V.I.P.s and observed several prominent actors at work.
They had lunch at the beautiful new studio restaurant and saw some actors and actresses relaxing. After
lunch, the tour continued at the technical section of the studio where they could watch film takes of
yesterday’s shooting.
The first business session started at 2:00 P.M. New members Cook, Hailey, and Hinman were introduced and
welcomed into the club. Wes Bowman was transferred to honorary life membership. Don Peterson recommended adoption of a senior active membership classification. The secretary gave his report about the activities during the past year. The club was in good shape. With much regret, the secretary announced the passing
of members Carl Blakeslee, J.R. Metcalf, Les Tompsett, and Frank Free, the club’s first secretary (1915-1930).
The hosts’ cocktail party was at the home of Max and Bonnie Autrey. Then they journeyed by bus to John
and Marian Platz’ home in North Hollywood for a late 9:00 dinner. It was catered, and a culinary delight with
many exotic foods. This was a day the CC would long remember.
On Friday morning, March 25, there were two programs. One by Dick Hinman, was entitled “I Think, Do
You?” The other was “Old Master Portraits of Today’s Child” by new member Kenneth Cook. Both programs
were excellent. For lunch, Cameracraftsmen and their ladies were guests of the Eastman Kodak Company on
78
the roof terrace of the hotel.
In the afternoon the first program was “What’s New, Pussycat?” It was a panel of three of Los Angeles’ great
illustrators: George DeGennaro, Glen Embree, and Todd Walker. Member Jason Hailey was the moderator. It
was a lively presentation, showing the panel members photographs and discussing their artistic approaches to
advertising agency assignments.
The final program of the day was “Playmates and Bunnies” by two Playboy photographers, Edward
DeLong, Jr. and William Figgs. With live models, they showed how they made the center-spread photographs.
In the evening they went for cocktails to Jason Hailey’s beautiful studio, just a short cab ride away. They all
enjoyed Jason’s “Dream Studio” and his advertising and fine art photographs. The cocktails were delicious.
Later, they were on their own for dinner on La Cienega’s “Restaurant Row.”
At the final morning meeting, March 26, the big issue was regarding membership classifications.
A motion by Autrey was made, and seconded by Hinman, that:
1. Active membership will designate members doing actual camera work.
2. Senior active members will have all the privileges and obligations, such as voting, non-attendance
fee, no print fee, etc.
3. Senior active members may bring prints made by photographers other than themselves.
4. Senior active classification will be open only to non-cameramen still engaged in photography.
5. Not more than three active members may be transferred to senior active in any one year.
The number of active members is to be limited to forty. After considerable discussion, the motion carried.
The two candidates this year are Joel Strasser and Jim Israel. Both were elected to membership. The club
accepted the invitation of the LaClaires to have the 1967 meeting in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Chairman
Laurence Blaker thanked the hosts for an outstanding meeting, saying it was the best he had ever attended.
One of the most important and beneficial changes in Cameracraftsmen occurred at this meeting: the senior
active classification. In the past, the problem had been how to keep the wisdom (photographic experience) of
older men like Gittings, Reeves, etc., and at the same time add the freshness of young ideas from men like Cook
79
1966 meeting held at
Continential Hotel,
Hollywood
and Hailey, while still holding the membership to forty. Some members are very active in photography, but as
managers or executives rather than as cameramen. The club needed to retain these members but keep new
openings for younger men.
Another plus for membership is the discussion concerning “honorary life” classification—to simply call
it “life membership.” One item that has been overlooked is a new membership classification voted upon and
accepted at the Hollywood meeting, that of “honorary member.” The purpose of this classification is to allow
the club to bestow a complimentary membership to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to
professional photography, but who does not meet the qualifications for active membership. This member
would be invited to all meetings but would have no vote.
Chairman Blaker expressed a special thanks to the five energetic hosts for a fine meeting.
1967
MARCH 1–3
James Israel
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
The hosts were Marvin and June Helgesen, Maurice and Adeline LaClaire, David and Mary Lou LaClaire,
Courneye Tourcotte, and Frank and Marvis Pechman. Grand Rapids boasted a population of over 400,000 and
was said to be the “furniture capital of the world.” The CC were slated to stay at the once-famous Morton Hotel
because it was central to most events and the room rates were modest.
On Wednesday, March 1, the CC traveled by bus to the LaClaire studio five miles away. The hosts welcomed
the members and ladies at 9:00 A.M. with coffee and donuts. The first program was presented by Jim Israel, a
new club member elected to membership just last year. Following Jim’s presentation the annual group pictures
were taken.
Ladies of Cameracraftsmen
at the 1967 Grand Rapids
meeting
80
After lunch the ladies were taken on a tour of furniture showrooms, while the men assembled for the first
business meeting in the banquet room at the hotel. The two new members, Joel Stasser and Jim Israel, were
welcomed into the club by Chairman Laurence Blaker. Only twenty members were present at this meeting and
Frank Pechman voiced his disappointment at the poor attendance.
Secretary Alvin Duis gave a financial report and said we now have a balance of $528.41, and all bills are
paid. Laurence Blaker, the club historian, was questioned about what is being done with our history. He said
the club materials he has are so voluminous it would take a trained historian to organize and edit them.
Members Wes Bowman, Winton Medlar, and Lawton Osborn were transferred to life membership, as they are
now retired from active business. It was moved by Ben Meyer, seconded by Courneye Tourcotte, that we have a
resolution to invite widows of members to participate in the social events of the club. It passed unanimously.
The next day the CC set up their informal print exhibit. These prints were criticized by each other and by
the chairman of the exhibit, Frank Pechman.
There were not many prints brought this year, and it is very apparent that some members would rather pay
the no-print fine of $5.00. Frank suggested the $5.00 fine was not adequate. A motion was made and seconded
that the fee be increased to $25.00. It passed with no objections. They left the hotel at 10:30 A.M. for a tour of
the Grand Rapids Press to see their new color process in operation. It was just a short distance from the hotel,
so they walked.
At 2:30 P.M., they walked to the Grand Rapids Art Museum to hear Walter McBride, the director. His program
was about “The Human Figure as Related in Art.” Next, they heard Sister Mary Lois of Aquinas College of Art
speak about “The Figure in History.” At 7:00 P.M. they were entertained by Mr. Chris Stoffels Overvoorde, of the
Calvin College art department. He spoke for almost two hours on “Study of the Figure.” The human figure was
important in photography, and the CC wanted to know all about it.
On Friday, March 3, the last day of this meeting, there was much to resolve. Frank Pechman’s Committee
on Miscellaneous Matters reported:
1. Shall hosts continue to share in prorate? Yes.
2. Shall new members participate in prorate? Yes.
3. Shall banquet tickets be included in prorate? Yes.
4. Shall a new Membership Committee be appointed each year? No.
5. All members of Membership Committee must be active or senior active members. Yes.
Helgesen moved, and Shields seconded, that these recommendations be adopted. Motion carried. It was
also moved, seconded and passed that the secretary communicate with the members who have failed to pay
their fines, dues, and prorate fees, to find out their intentions prior to their being dropped from membership.
The club by vote accepted the invitation of Winans and Hockett to have next year’s meeting (1968) in New
Orleans. Bill Shields invited the club to Charleston, South Carolina, for the 1969 meeting. Max Autrey moved,
and Maurice LaClaire seconded, that we award an honorary membership to Alvin W. Streitmatter, vice president of Kodak, in recognition of his great contribution to professional photography. It passed unanimously.
At the conclusion of this final business session, Chairman Laurence Blaker said that with these rule
changes and the present club enthusiasm, the club is now going forward. We have a place for older members
and have room for new younger members. Cameracraftsmen could now move forward to expanding and
enriching the club’s objectives.
After a plain, no-frills lunch at the hotel, there were two programs in the afternoon, one by Mr. Harold
81
Colton of the Eastman Kodak Company and the other one by a Mr. Harry Youdin, a psychologist.
A social hour preceded the annual banquet at 7:30. All the CC were dressed for this happy event, and the
membership was optimistic about the future of the club. It was a fun night of great food, fine music, and
good fellowship.
Later, four members were dropped due to rule infractions such as missed meetings, unpaid fines, or
unpaid prorate fees. Those taken off the club roll were Kenneth Cook, John Edwards, Richard Hinman, and
Norman Hockett.
A final note from Secretary Alvin Duis: “The 1968 meeting will mark the end of my ninth year as club secretary. During that time with cooperation of the membership, we have brought the club to the dawn of a new era
of bright ideas and enthusiasms. It is now time for a bright new secretary. In 1957, at the Lutsen Lodge (St.
Paul), the club was sick. 1960 marked the turning point. Now it is so healthy the future holds everything. I feel
that I have nothing more to offer. The club future belongs to the younger members.”
1968
MARCH 7–9
Joel Strasser
Jason Hailey
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
Cameracraftsmen met for their annual meeting in New Orleans at the Sheraton-Charles Hotel. In 1955, the CC
had their meeting in New Orleans and had such a great time that everyone was eagerly looking forward to a
return. The meeting hosts were Fonville Winans, Jack Baasen, Paul Hunter, John Edwards, and John “Wad”
Hockett. The Program Committee was Bakker, Hailey, Tourcotte, and Hockett.
The Membership Committee met at the hotel on March 6. Their room was also a get-together place for
early arriving members. The hospitality room is the first place everyone goes to see their old friends. The room
was kept open until 11:00 P.M. for latecomers.
On March 7 the first business meeting started promptly at 9:00 A.M. and lasted the whole morning. The
club group pictures were taken in the banquet room at the hotel. Twenty-eight people are shown, and they are
all well-dressed, well-groomed and look like successful businessmen. The picture of the ladies shows a group
of 24 stylish and beautifully dressed ladies.
In the afternoon, new member Joel Strasser presented “Photography in Architecture,” supported by slides
and photographs, on how to make money and enjoy exciting assignments. Members were glad to have Joel, a
young photographer with a great future, and his lovely wife, LaVonne, in the club.
Member Gerhard Bakker talked about “Composition and Color” and seeing photographically. The hosts’
party began at 6:30 P.M. followed by cocktails and a buffet dinner prepared by the hotel chefs. This party lasted
until quite late.
On Friday, March 8, the print exhibit and critique lasted all morning and is still one of the most popular
events at every annual meeting. They had luncheon as a group at the hotel, and there was a mystery speaker to
entertain them. He was a former studio owner who went broke in business, and then became a well-paid standup comic by telling about his photographic career. Member Jason Hailey presented a two-hour program starting
at 2:00 P.M., entitled “Advertising, the Service Art.” He leads an exciting life with his busy schedule as an illustrative photographer. It was a great program of assignments, with thoughtful treatments on a variety of people
and product subjects. At its conclusion, everyone returned to their rooms for a reception in the French Quarter.
Local photographer Phyllis Moore Stoll and her daughter, Eugenie Ragan, had a beautiful apartment in
the French Quarter, where they invited all the CC of this meeting to a reception starting at 5:00 P.M. They
82
enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and the company of several local dignitaries.
It was a beautiful party thoroughly enjoyed. Later, they were on their own for dinner and most ate at the
small specialty restaurants in the French Quarter.
On March 9, the last day of the meeting, there was an early program by Ernst Wildi of Paillard, Inc.
showing award-winning movies and still photography. Robert Gilka, director of photography for National
Geographic magazine, gave a stirring program.
For lunch the ladies went to a famous place called “Courtyard of the Two Sisters.” The men had a
combined luncheon and business meeting at the hotel. Alvin Duis had been secretary for the last nine years,
and he indicated that he wished to retire from the job. Dave LaClaire was mentioned. Immediately, everyone
was in accord that he was the logical person for the job. He was unanimously elected and became the eighth
club secretary since the club was formed in 1905. Dave thanked the members and said he would do his best.
Bill Shields said he already was working on the meeting for next year in Charleston, South Carolina, and
everything was going well.
There was a minute of silence out of respect for the CC members who had passed on. The most recent one
was Henry Free, who died January 6; he was only 61 years old. Retiring Secretary Alvin Duis asked for permission to say a few words. He said, “Speaking for myself, I can truthfully say that outside of marriage, being a
member of the Cameracraftsmen group has been the most rewarding experience of my life. Imagine a group
of fifty people hand-picked from all over the North American continent. Congenial people, highly competent
people in one or another phase of professional photography, all contributing by their artistry, skill, or business
acumen to the advancement of professional photography. And with all of these fine people bound together with
the cement of fellowship. Do I sound sentimental? You bet. Why shouldn’t I put my heart into it? I am proud
to have been your secretary for these last nine years, and I thank each of you for your support.” He was given
a standing ovation.
The annual banquet was held in the hotel’s brand-new banquet hall, preceded by the usual cocktail hour.
The guest speaker was Justin Wilson, billed as “The Laziest Cajun in New Orleans.” He kept the crowd in a
continuous uproar. The festive evening was a great way to end the 1968 meeting.
The new elected members of this meeting were Phillip Charis, Harper Leiper, Dick Atamian, Gene Botsford,
and John Howell. New secretary Dave LaClaire sent out the 1968 meeting report about July 15, 1968. It was a
good detailed report and covered the meeting very well. Dave would be a fine secretary. Dave added, “With
Laurence to guide me, Alvin to advise me, and Frank to encourage me, I will have to perform well!”
David LaClaire
Phillip Charis
1969
MARCH 27–29
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Wendell Powell and Bill Shields were hosts for the 1969 meeting in Charleston. The hotel was the famous
Sheraton, Fort Sumter. Members gathered in the hosts’ suite of rooms for fellowship and refreshments. It was
loud, noisy, humorous, and most enjoyable.
Thursday, March 27, the day started with the first business session. The following new members were introduced by Host Bill Shields: Dick Atamian, Gene Botsford, Phillip Charis, John Howell and Harper Leiper. They
were given a warm welcome with much applause. Chairman Laurence Blaker then asked for a roll call, and
it was noted there were nineteen active members present out of a total list of 33 active members. Members Paul
Gittings, Maurice LaClaire and Gene Botsford were changed to senior active membership. Ulric Meisel was
83
John Howell
changed to life membership. The Membership Committee is composed of Joel Strasser, Jim Israel, Frank
Pechman, Laurence Blaker and Max Autrey. There was much discussion about attendance requirements, and
a personal review by all members was recommended. Chairman Blaker ordered the secretary, who is the only
officer, to study this matter.
Membership Chairman Frank Pechman reported that three men were recommended for membership: Russ
Clift, Van Moore, and Jack Coleman. They will be voted upon at the second business session. The session lasted
until 11:00 A.M., and then everyone met at the front of the hotel for the annual group photographs.
After lunch at the hotel, they attended a program by member Gerhard Bakker entitled “Portraits Of,
Through, and By the Artist.”
At 3:15 P.M. the CC boarded busses for an enjoyable scenic tour of beautiful southern Charleston. Returning
to the hotel, everyone scrambled for the early hosts’ party and sumptuous buffet supper in the Sumter Room.
At 7:30 P.M. they hurriedly boarded the bus for the Dock Street Theater. Built in 1836 and said to be the first
theater in America, this famous theater was known for its burlesque comedy.
Friday at 9:00 A.M., the first program featured the print exhibit and critique. This lasted until 11:00, when
member Paul Gittings presented the program “At His Best.”
The ladies’ luncheon was in the hotel’s Terrace Room, while the men lunched in the Citadel Room.
At 2:00 P.M., they boarded busses for Cypress Gardens, where George Caragonne demonstrated how he takes
outdoor portraits of children and family groups. Caragonne is a recognized expert on posing family groups.
His presentation was well received.
On Saturday, March 29, there was a boat tour of the Charleston Harbor. It was refreshing to be out in the
fresh air. They viewed Fort Sumter up close, as well as many pelicans, cormorants, and porpoises. They were
at liberty for lunch, then the second business meeting was delayed so we could hear a report on photography
in Europe by member John Howell.
Chairman Laurence Blaker opened the discussion about where the 1970 meeting would be held. Most
members wanted it to be in Mexico, a vote was taken, and it was decided that Mexico would be the place. Either
Puerto Vallarta or San Miguel was favored, and Laurence appointed Jason Hailey to look into Puerto Vallarta
and Gerhard Bakker to research San Miguel. Program chairman for the 1970 meeting would be Gene Botsford,
and Jason Hailey was named chairman of arrangements.
A membership report revealed that twenty active members out of 33 active members listed were at this
meeting. Also present were two senior active members, two life members, two members by resolution, and one
honorary member, Alvin Streitmatter. Three active members were transferred to senior active. The vote for new
members followed and all three names presented were elected to membership. They were Russ Clift of
Bellingham, Washington; Van Moore of Greenville, South Carolina; and Jack Coleman of Danville, Kentucky.
An Aims and Purposes Committee was appointed and Jim Israel named chairman. The committee is
composed of members Joel Strasser, John Howell, Courneye Tourcotte and Fonville Winans.
The final event of this meeting started at 4:00 P.M. and was by John Holland, director of photography at
NASA. He spoke of all the progress being made in the space program. The CC enjoyed his presentation.
At 6:30 P.M., honorary member Al Streitmatter hosted a social hour in the Citadel Room. Following, was
the annual banquet billed as “Supper on de Battry.” The hotel banquet room was lavishly decorated. The food
was exceptional, the music wonderful, and the Southern hospitality outstanding!
In the secretary’s fall report, it is noted that the decision has been made for the 1970 meeting to be in Puerto
84
Vallarta, Mexico. Jason Hailey spent much time and energy in working at Puerto Vallarta for this meeting. He
found that the facilities at the Posada Vallarta Hotel were adequate, and there was good transportation to and
from the location. Puerto Vallarta is on the ocean, and there is plenty of “Old Mexico” in that area.
1970
MAY 4–7
PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO
The CC members were excited when they learned the 1970 meeting would be in Mexico. This would be the first
time the Cameracraftsmen had held their annual meeting outside of the United States. Jason Hailey is the host.
The Puerto Vallarta meeting started on May 5 at 9:00 A.M. with the first business session. New members
Russ Clift and Van Moore were introduced and welcomed. New member Jack Coleman was not present. The
total count of members and wives attending this meeting is 35.
Resignations were accepted from the following members: Jack Baasen, Oscar Graverson, Fonville Winans,
and Glen Worley. Chairman Laurence Blaker said we regretted losing these members, but mitigating circumstances and health reasons were understandable. Members Ben Meyer, Walton Reeves, and Maurice LaClaire
were moved to life membership. It was noted that Frank Pechman had done considerable work in preparing
for membership nominations and had driven from his home in Wisconsin into Mexico for that meeting.
However, he was taken ill and had to return home without getting to Puerto Vallarta. The members unanimously expressed their gratitude to Frank and waived the nonattendance fee.
Joel Strasser gave a membership report and recommended for membership: Jim Deaver, John Holland, Paul
Ness, Al Gilbert, Ted Sirlin, and Ray Conkling.
Under honors of members for the year, it was noted that Harper Leiper was president of the Arts and Sciences
Foundation; Bill Carrier was chairman of the board of the Arts and Sciences Foundation; Russ Clift was president of the American Society of Photographers; and Paul Gittings was chairman of the Winona School Board
of Trustees.
Ted Sirlin
1970 Mexico meeting held at
the Puerto Vallarta Hotel
85