This volume comprises a selection of the best papers presented at the Seventh International Symposium on Applications of Laser Techniques to Fluid Mechanics, held in Lisbon in July 1994. The prime objective of the conference was to provide a forum for the presentation of the most advanced research and significant results. Main emphasis was on applications of laser techniques to scientific and engineering fluid flow research, but contributions to the theory and practice of laser methods were also considered where they facilitate new improved fluid mechanic research. Attention was placed on laser-Doppler anemometry, particle sizing and other methods for the measurements of velocity and scalars such as particle image velocimetry and laser induced fluorescence.