UNESCO – The International Day of Light – 16th of May
“A solution in search of a problem” – this is what Theodore H. Maiman is said to have remarked in 1960, when he first successfully focused light into a laser beam using a ruby crystal. The report published in the journal ‘Nature’1 about a month later comprised a mere 300 words – written, perhaps, before the true magnitude of this invention could be fully grasped. Decades later, this very event served as the inspiration for establishing the “International Day of Light.” Light was equally essential to another invention – one whose historical origins can be traced back to Louis Jacques Mandé Daguerre and Joseph Niépce: photography, officially dated to August 19, 1839.
Yet, even more significant than these historical milestones, on this day we should also pay tribute to the role of light in two other processes – those that are billions of years older. These are photosynthesis – without which neither plants nor life itself could exist – and Vitamin D3, which is essential for human health and of which 80 to 90 percent is synthesized within the body through exposure to sunlight -specifically, UV-B radiation. The positive impact of Vitamin D3 on mental well-being is indisputable – just as nearly everyone experiences a surge of positive emotion at the first touch of spring sunlight.
Although we did not invent the laser, Hensel has been developing and manufacturing technically reproducible lighting equipment for photography since the early 1960s. Since that time, we have utilized our vast range of light modifiers and specialized flash heads to translate the creative visions of our photography clients into tangible lighting designs that evoke emotion.
For our industrial clients, we work beyond the boundaries of the visible spectrum – whatever the specific requirements of the project may be. For over 60 years, we have delivered solutions, evoked emotions, and applied our passion, experience, and expertise for the benefit of our clients – and yours. MADE IN GERMANY.
In the realm of photography, flash lighting is incredibly versatile and controllable – truly unique! Working with it sparks new ideas, solves technical challenges, and – driven by passion – creates powerful emotions. This is what we stand by your side for – every day.
So: Happy International Day of Light!
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[1] Nature, Vol. 187, 6th of August 1960