Abstract: A blocking device in a foldable camera blocks the shutter release button to prevent an undesired exposure whenever the camera is folded and throughout each film transport cycle. The device is moved into blocking relationship with the release button in response to movement of a camera cover member to its closed position and in response to initiation of the transport cycle. The device is then moved out of said blocking relationship upon movement of the cover member from its closed position and upon completion of said cycle. The device includes a pivotable member bearing a blocking element and two sensing elements. One sensing element is actuable by closure of the cover member; the other sensing element is actuable by movement of a timing cam that rotates one revolution in synchronism with the transport cycle. The blocking element moves into the path of the release button whenever either sensing element is actuated.

Abstract: An indicating device in a camera indicates unambiguously whether or not the camera is loaded with film, and how much of the film has been exposed. The device is first indexed from an empty-camera position to a loaded-camera position in response to insertion of film into the camera. It is then indexed sequentially to succeeding positions, each representing the next film image area to be exposed, in response to actuation of a film transport member. The device is thus indexed ultimately to a final position signifying that no film image area remains to be exposed. It is then returned to its empty-camera position in response to removal of the film from the camera. At each of its positions the device presents an identifying indicium to a viewing site to indicate visually the corresponding camera condition. The device is especially useful in a processing camera where it indicates positively whether no film is in the camera or whether a full supply of film covered by a dark slide is in the camera.