Flash Photography. From Flambeau to Futuramic: The History of Flash Photography.

Heiland Division of Minneapolis-Honeywell, 1959. Pamphlet, 32 pages, near fine with slight browning at edges of covers. [Includes blow-gun tube, flash pan, foil-filled flash lamp, introduction by Heiland Research Corporation of electro-magnetic solenoid for synchonization, gas-filled flash tubes (Heiland-Wilcox Strobo-Lite P-2), Strobonar, etc. Written humorously with photographic and cartoon illustrations.] Scarce. Summary:

From Flambeau to Futuramic: The History of Flash Photography (1959), published by the Heiland Division of Minneapolis-Honeywell (written by Art Myers and illustrated by Glen Fishback), is a 32-page promotional and historical pamphlet that humorously traces the evolution of artificial light in photography.

Key Details & Summary

• Historical Evolution: The pamphlet chronologically tracks how photographers illuminated scenes—beginning with primitive torches (flambeaux) and dangerous open flash-powder pans, moving through early blow-gun ignition systems, to mid-20th-century foil-filled disposable flashbulbs.

• Technological Milestones: Highlights key corporate and technical breakthroughs in flash synchronization, notably the Heiland Research Corporation's development of electromagnetic solenoids to synchronize camera shutters with flash bursts, as well as the creation of gas-filled flash tubes (such as the Heiland-Wilcox Strobo-Lite).

• The "Futuramic" Culmination: Serves as both an educational history and a brand showcase, culminating in Honeywell’s late-1950s flagship innovation: the Futuramic Strobonar, one of the earliest self-contained, electronic flash units that eliminated the need for disposable flashbulbs.

• Tone & Format: Blends technical history with lighthearted prose, combining archival photographs with original cartoon illustrations to make technical concepts accessible to amateur and professional photographers alike.