Abstract: A reference surface is provided on the housing of a flash illumination apparatus for allowing accurate positioning of a flash tube relative to a predetermined length of a flash reflector. This reference surface is spaced from the adjacent end of the predetermined reflector length so that positioning of one tube end and the reference surface against an appropriate aligning surface accurately centers the tube relative to the reflecting surface. Moreover, either the housing or a reflector main body has structure for cooperating with separate end members of a multi-component reflector for preventing the end members from being assembled so that the reflecting surfaces thereof do not face each other.

Abstract: A snap-fit strobe housing, which resists manual disassembly, includes mating first and second housing sections with an interior surface of a wall of one section carrying a locking detent and a wall of the other section carrying a latching portion projecting in a manner and direction to engage the locking detent. Also included is structure extending from the locking wall in overlapping relationship to a surface of the latching portion facing away from that wall so as to engage and retain the latching portion in continuous engagement with the locking detent.

Abstract: An electronic flash unit attachable to the top of a camera shutter housing is provided with a switch control apparatus which connects with the flash unit and is positioned on the camera so as to be readily reachable by the photographer's camera-operating hand when it is in a normal position to operate the shutter and flash switch of the camera. Engagement of the switch control apparatus by the photographer's hand effects the closing of a charging switch to apply power to the flash unit and release of the switch control apparatus automatically effects the opening of the charging switch. The shutter and flash switch can be operated by the so-positioned hand as soon as the flash unit is charged.

Abstract: A pair of meshing gears, having unique tooth profiles, are provided in a separable gear train which is usable in a self-developing camera to couple a motor in one housing section of the camera to at least one of a pair of pressure-applying rollers mounted on a second camera housing section that is pivotally coupled to the first section for movement between positions blocking and unblocking access to a film container receiving section in the first housing section. The pair of gears have a speed ratio of other than 1:1 and equal tip spacing to facilitate bringing the pair of gears into operative mesh when the second housing section is moved to the operative blocking position.