Abstract: A method is provided for a customer to provide a message, design or other visible information to be printed upon prints during processing of photographic film supplied by the customer. The process involves scanning an annotated surface containing the visible information, creating a reproducible file containing the visible information and printing the visible information from the file onto a photographic print during the photofinishing processing. The customer information may be directly written or otherwise connected with a photofinishing envelope in which the film is forwarded to the photofinisher. The envelopes or messages may be scanned and the envelopes saved for return to the customer with the finished prints and negatives. If the envelopes are scanned at the time of removing the film, the reproducible file may be electronically stored and retrieved during printing of the photographic prints on which the information is to be printed. Various alternative steps in the process are disclosed.

Abstract: In a camera and printer system, apparatus and methods for recording or storing voice messages in message memory associated with an exposed image frame for reproduction as an annotation with prints made from the exposed image frames. The messages may be recorded on magnetic film layers or stored in camera on-board memory or in detachable message memory modules or cards to be forwarded with the exposed film strip to a photofinisher for read out and printing on the prints. The printer includes a voice recognition system for voice recognition of words spoken by the user and stored in the memory means and provided to the photofinisher. The messages to be printed may be stored or recorded by the user in real time with each exposure or at an earlier time to be reproduced on each print made subsequently. Notes may be temporarily stored with the making of each exposure, read out at a later time and used in the composition and recording in the memory of the message to be printed after voice recognition.

Abstract: A one-piece light cone baffle for use in a camera comprising a frame and four walls integrally connected to the frame. The frame has centrally located therein a light-transmitting window. Each of the walls is connected to the frame by a hinge and is movable between a relaxed position extending outwardly from the frame and an operative position in which the walls cooperate to form a light tight seal. Means are also provided for reflecting non-image-forming light passing through the window away from a light-sensitive material and for securing the baffle in place in the baffle recess of the camera.