A method for visual observation and photographic recording of electron beams that involves the dropping of fluorescent powder through the beam is illustrated by photographs of convergence in Pierce guns, an electron beam profile, and electron trajectories in an Einzel lens. It has the following advantages: (a) The photographic exposure time under all normal circumstances is much less than 1 sec. (b) It is applicable in any degree of vacuum. (c) Spatial resolution of less than 100 &mgr; is readily obtained. (d) The electron beam is not perturbed. (e) It is applicable to electron beams in less accessible regions—between closely spaced electrodes for example. (f) Satisfactory photographs may be obtained for electron beams of any perveance provided the beam potential exceeds 100 V.