The electromagnetic field is assigned a self-consistent role in which abrupt slowing of the collapse produces radiation and the pressure of the radiation produces abrupt slowing. A simple expression is introduced for the photon spectrum. Conditions for light emission are proposed that imply a high degree of spatial localization. Some numerical checks are satisfied. A study of the mechanical equations of motion suggests an explanation of the very short time scale in terms of oppositely directed field pressures and the speed of light.