Anyone here have any knowledge of the type of cameras often used by offical WWII U.S. photographers? Value/ collectability?
Of pacticular interst about the argus brand?
Of pacticular interst about the argus brand?
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There was quite a variety of cameras used, and some of at depended on availability and some on the task at hand. The larger view cameras simply wouldn't have been practical in true combat conditions, while they would have been preferred for PR shots, photography for manuals, etc.. Some use depended on whether the photographer worked in the business prior to the war. For example, Margaret Bourke-White's landmark trip to Russia saw her hauling all the following with her: Speed Graphic, two Linhof View cameras, and a Soho reflex, none of which was probably "issue".
Some training documents I have from the Signal Corps Photographic Center and some caption sheets from the Army Pictorial Service show use of the Speed Graphic, and a "TD-12", whatever that was.
There is great interest in old cameras, but value is complicated because of all the makers and models, and condition is extremely important.
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