Omeka: photography and scanning

Before you start

Don't handle any items — paper, photos, or artifacts — without first reading Safe handling of artifacts and documents.

Photographs

Omeka accepts photographs as attachments to all types of collections and records. When taking photographs, follow these guidelines:

• Items should be large, filling most of the frame. It is acceptable to crop the photo down after it is taken.
• They should be on a plain, non-distracting background, preferably black. Nothing but the object should be visible (nothing in the background).
• They should be well and evenly lit. In particular, make sure your own shadow or camera’s shadow isn’t over the object.
• They should avoid reflections or glare. This can be difficult; in some cases, it will require a special photography setup. In those cases, talk with the Director (or just move to an easier subject). If possible, remove the object from containers (bags, frames, etc.) so you are photographing the object directly, not through plastic or glass.
• They should avoid shadows, particularly the shadow of you or your camera. Change your orientation such that light is coming from a side.
• They should be in focus; note that blur can be caused both by camera motion (hold it very still!) and by the camera being out of focus. The latter is often caused by the camera being too close to the object.
• No flash. A flash “flattens” the object, blanketing it with even light that obscures textures, shadows, and shapes.
• You usually need multiple pictures — one for each significant view or point of interest. For example, a coin would usually have two photos, front and back. Depending on the object you might have pictures of the back, bottom, sides, or inside.
• Take additional closeup photographs of original labels, identifying or manufacturer's marks, artistic elements, noteworthy construction details (e.g., an interesting hand-made hinge), or significant damage.

Scanning

We have two scanners: a flatbed scanner, and a book scanner. They have very different uses and the quality of output is extremely different.

Flatbed scanner

The flatbed scanner is the only choice for photographs or high-quality scans of flat documents. It can also scan some small objects, like coins.

Book scanner

The book scanner is a special-use tool; it