Applying the Methods of Evidence Photography to Archaeological Collections
Patrick S. Rivera · 2014
Forensic photography techniques used to document material criminal evidence can also be applied to the digital documentation and curation of archaeological collections. Combining a computer-operated, drop-out lighting system with standardized principles of composition makes it possible to generate a digital record of historical artifacts that is accurate and consistent across collections. Individuals with minimal background in archaeology or photography can quickly be trained to create publication quality images of historical artifacts. This article explains how to set up a digital photography system for archaeological collections that draws on the methods of forensic evidence photography, as used by the Veterans Curation Program.