VPRS 8363 Contact Prints and Negatives : Alpha-Numeric Classification

Full description

This series consists of black and white contact prints and negatives maintained within an alpha-numeric subject classification system.

P1 consignment: is made up of contact prints.
P2 consignment: is made up of black and white negatives.

Originally, each item comprised a black and white negative, measuring (on average) 12.5 x 10cm, stapled behind a contact print of the negative on photographic paper measuring 16.5 x 12cm. The additional space beside the contact print itself was been provided to record the following details:

* classification code. This is an alpha-numeric code ranging from A1 to W5. The codes used reflect an alphabetic subject approach to the classification of the prints. For example A1 stands for aerial photographs, A2 for amenities, C1 for Cargoes through to W5 for World Trade Centre.

* negative number. It is evident that negatives were numbered sequentially although it is not clear upon what basis.

* date photo taken.

* location.

* whether reproduced. This entry only appears for some of the prints.

* additional details. These may include the name of the person in the case of a portrait or may include some additional comments.

Date Range: The photograghs appear to have been taken between 1958 and 1977.

Background: In the early 1950's the Melbourne Harbor Trust Commissioners appointed a staff photographer Dudley Robinson. Robinson resigned on 24 January 1958 and was succeeded by a Mr Hendrickson. The staff photographer was responsible for providing a visual record of the facilities and activities of the agency and of related matters.