PHOTARCH is a photographic method developed for consistent, comparable documentation of archaeological artefacts. It focuses on standardised lighting, angles, backgrounds and metadata integration.
Frequently asked questions
Why not just use museum photos?
Most museum photos were taken without a shared method — making comparison across collections difficult. PHOTARCH was created to solve that.
Do I need special equipment?
No. The method works with a range of equipment — from mirrorless cameras to medium format systems. What matters is consistency and technique.
Can I use PHOTARCH in the field?
Yes. The method can be adapted for both fieldwork and controlled studio settings. A portable setup guide is available.
Why a white background?
A pure white background helps maintain shadows, makes clipping and scale control easier, and avoids the need for post-processing cutouts.
Can I attend a workshop?
Yes. We offer both in-person and online workshops tailored for museums, researchers, and heritage professionals. Join the mailing list to stay updated on upcoming sessions.
Does PHOTARCH comply with other standards like FADGI or Metamorfoze?
PHOTARCH is designed to align with core principles from standards like FADGI and Metamorfoze, but is adapted for archaeological artefacts and field workflows. It focuses on consistency, comparability, and long-term usability.
Can I get one-on-one coaching or advice on my/our setup?
Yes. If you’re setting up a workflow, planning a project, or want feedback on your images, we offer personal consultation sessions. Use the contact form to get in touch.
Who is PHOTARCH for?
Researchers, museums, archaeologists, photographers, students — anyone working with documentation of artefacts.
Is PHOTARCH a software or a workflow?
It’s a method with a set of principles, not a software. It includes lighting setup, camera positioning, background selection, colour management, and metadata guidelines.
What kind of equipment do I need?
You can use anything from a mirrorless camera to a medium format system. The method is scalable — what matters most is how the setup is used.
Do I need a studio?
Not necessarily. PHOTARCH can be adapted for field use with portable lighting and background systems.
How do you ensure colour accuracy?
By using ICC profiles, colour charts, and white balance controls — all calibrated within a controlled lighting environment.
Can I include scale and metadata in the image?
Yes. PHOTARCH includes a standardised placement of scale bars, colour targets, and embedded metadata templates.
Can I test the method with just one artefact?
Absolutely. Even a single properly documented object is a step toward building consistent visual archives.
How do I stay updated?
Sign up to the PHOTARCH mailing list for updates on new resources, publications, workshops, and use cases.