I wouldn't know Ed Lang if he weren't married to Ilene, which only means I don't usually come across top echelon business executives. It would be a loss, too, for both of us, because we like each other and have a lot to talk about. Part of our fondness is based on our being opposites; he is very athletic, super-organized, thorough, self-disciplined.

When I want to find out what's the best way to cope with the details of darkroom technique, or what's the best buy on a bicycle lock, the best vacuum cleaner, the best amplifier, light meter, or what's wrong with my car, I ask Ed. I describe the symptoms: (a) the car backfires; (b) I smell something burning; [c] the inside of the trunk is charred on the lefthand side. Ed listens carefully, thinks for a few minutes, then makes his diagnosis. He is never wrong.

Readers' Comments (if you don't see anything below, try clicking here)