A few of the many interesting aspects of the mind, life and work of Ro
bert Hooke (1635-1703) are discussed, particularly some that are relev
ant to opto-mechanical photogrammetric plotters and cameras. Evidence
from primary and secondary sources is presented which indicates that H
ooke devised instruments with optical and mechanical components which
later came to be used in photogrammetric plotters, that he recognized
the value of perspective projection in accurate recording of terrain,
and devised a ''Picture-Box'' for that purpose. The question of how fa
r he progressed in photography in experiments with purple dyes is left
open. These ''photogrammetric'' activities of Hooke's are shown to ha
ve been only a small part of his work in London which included duties
as Curator of Experiments to the Royal Society, Professor of Geometry
at Gresham College, and Surveyor to the City of London Authorities fol
lowing the Great Fire in 1666.