↑ Alex McLaren self portrait with MPP camera
A fascinating new photographic exhibition at Perth Museum & Art Gallery, Perth & Kinross Council, tells the story of three Perth photographic businesses at a time when the demand for newspaper photography grew hugely.
‘The Golden Age of Photojournalism’ focuses on the businesses in the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s and provides a chance to see a wide variety of pictures taken on a freelance basis for the press in Perth and Perthshire. Many of the images have not been seen since they were first used up to 70 years ago.
↑ Neg.C43237 The Royal family at Kinclaven, Perthshire, 1955. Photo by Alex C Cowper
Most of the images in the exhibition were printed from negatives donated by a well-known Perth resident and retired professional photographer Louis Flood. Louis began his long and distinguished career in photography with an apprenticeship at Star Photos in 1947. After completing National Service, he joined the staff at Alex C Cowper before establishing his own business, Louis Flood Photographers in 1977. Today the company continues under the management of his son, Louis T Flood.
In addition to the photographic prints visitors can see a recent interview with Louis Flood, conducted by retired journalist and broadcaster Ninian Reid, in which he gives a unique insight into the world of the freelance press photographer in Perth during that period.
↑ neg.C34315 – Willie Bauld in action at Starks Park, Kirkcaldy, 1953. Photo by Louis Flood
Louis Flood Photographers have also loaned interesting items including an early VN press camera and a wire photo transmitter used for sending pictures to the press via a telephone line.
↑ Gas mask fitting, Queen’s Barracks, Perth, c1940. Photo by Star Photos
‘The Golden Age of Photojournalism’
Perth Museum & Art Gallery
78 George Street
Perth
PH1 5LB
Runs until Sunday 25 May 2014 during normal Museum opening hours. Admission to Perth Museum & Art Gallery is free.
