50 Landmark Cameras That Changed Photography

John Wade has written and illustrated numerous articles on camera history for photographic, antique, and collectors’ magazines in the UK, America, and Australia and has written, edited, or contributed to more than 30 books on photographic history and techniques.

The chronological approach taken is both sensible and enjoyable, as it does give a flavour of how camera production and development occurred, incorporating changes in technology as it went. The text is both informed and informative, managing to give enough factual information that balances with Johns obvious enthusiasm and love for his subject(s). I love seeing cameras displayed with their occasionally mad accessories - cameras that I would not give houseroom to suddenly take on an allure (to me) when fully kitted out - you wonder what the design team from the American firm Univex were 'on' when they came up with some of the add ons for their already bonkers half frame camera the Mercury - the shot of this camera with i's Flash Gordon inspired lever wind, rangefinder and flash bulb unit is truly unforgettable. As with both of John's previous Schiffer titles (still available from the publisher) this is a wonderfully printed and illustrated book, and for me contains the essence of why I collect cameras and photographica - there's facts, anecdotes, a few mysteries and a decent serving of barminess... from the camera designers I mean, not from the author! - Timothy Campbell, 'Photographica World'