The Elder Scientific Exploring Expedition expedition, led by David Lindsay, was organised by the South Australian Branch of the Royal Geographical Society of Australasia. The expedition was funded by Sir Thomas Elder and explored western South Australia, Northern Territory and Western Australia.

Its stated aim was nothing less than 'that the exploration shall be as complete and exhaustive as possible, so that the information obtained may enable the whole of the blank spaces on the map of Australia be filled up in all important geographical aspects'. (Handbook of Instructions for the Guidance of the Officers of the Elder Scientific Exploring Expedition, 1891)

The expedition consisted of Lindsay, FW Leech, LA Wells, Frederick Elliott, Victor Streich, Richard Helms, Alfred Warren, RG Ramsay, AP Gwynne and four Afghan camel drivers: Hadji Shah Mahomet, Mahyedin, Alumgool, Mahmoud Azim and Abdul. Forty-four camels, which included 10 riding camels were supplied from Elder's Beltana camel stud.

Dr Frederick John Elliot (c.1855-1897), the expedition's medical officer, was also 'entrusted with the photographic apparatus to secure views of natural scenery illustrative of the geological and botanical features of the country; also portraits of the natives'. (Handbook of Instructions for the Guidance of the Officers of the Elder Scientific Exploring Expedition, 1891) In spite of his proven ability, as evidenced in these albums, Elliot then effectively disappeared from the photographic history books.