It provides both technical and applications information for all aspects of the global industry, integrating all segments of photonics: optics, lasers, imaging, fiber optics and electro-optics as well as photonic component manufacturing, solar cell improvements, LED lighting for cars and offices, THz, EHz, UV, IR, and visible light imaging and test equipment.

The first Optical Industry Directory was published in 1954 by Dr. Clifton Tuttle, an eminent retired Eastman Kodak physicist.

Theresa "Teddi" C. Laurin (1924 - November 5, 2015) joined the company in 1962 and, as publisher, worked closely with Dr. Tuttle.

In 1982 the magazine's name was changed to Photonics Spectra to reflect the growing influence of these new light-based technologies.

The company also includes several contributing editors located around the world and an editorial advisory board of over 25 leaders in the photonics industry.