Home

Digitization Standards for the Canadian Museum of Civilization

1. ITEM ON MANNEQUIN CD2005 0434 D2005 08399 31 ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY ve TYPE OF ARTIFACT Examples toy board game other MANDATORY Black or neutral grey background Artifact catalogue number Colour or white grey black scale Artifact placed straight Ensure that the catalogue number and scale can be excluded if necessary PROCEDURES For documentary purposes the artifact should be photographed multiple times especially if the artifact has several components or moving parts Use a digital camera capable of capturing a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 300 ppi in either RAW or TIFF Use a regular lens RECOMMENDATIONS In the Studio At the beginning of each session with new lighting adjust the camera s white balance and for reference purposes photograph a Kodak O 14 colour scale Import the image into image processing software e g Photoshop and adjust the levels on the colour scale with the points of reference as indicated in the general guidelines Save the data in ALV format since this information will apply to all photos taken during the same photography session Taking the Picture Place the colour scale showing measurements at the foot of the artifact Save space on the lower right to record the artifact s catalogue number Photograph twice with the scale one front view and one back view as well as multiple views of components and or moving part
2. BLACK BACKGROUND CD2005 0306 D2005 03525 2 TYPE OF ARTIFACT Examples glass object mirror ceramic silver other NOTES Reduce surface reflections on the artifact as much as possible MANDATORY Black or neutral grey background Artifact catalogue number Colour or white grey black scale Artifact placed straight Ensure that the catalogue number and scale can be excluded if necessary PROCEDURES The artifact must be photographed under a white dome which filters the light uniformly Care should be taken to avoid seeing the photographer s reflection on the artifact Take a first image with a colour scale and a second without a scale so that it doesn t reflect on the artifact Use a digital camera capable of capturing a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 300 ppi in either RAW or TIFF Use a regular lens To be determined by the photographer The best view should be the one without a scale ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY RECOMMENDATIONS In the Studio At the beginning of each session with new lighting adjust the camera s white balance and for reference purposes photograph a Kodak O 14 colour scale Import the image into image processing software e g Photoshop and adjust the levels on the colour scale with points of reference as indicated in the general guidelines Save the data in ALV format since this information will apply to all photos taken during the same p
3. 1 TYPE OF DOCUMENT This includes all original documents or artifacts which require faithful reproduction of the colour and or texture of the material and the information it contains Examples older manuscript on which you want to show signs of aging and or deterioration annotated document map scale drawing work on paper birthday card postcard other REMARKS Keep a border around the document to allow reframing as well as later modifications e g removing the scale and document number Batch digitization enhances productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images For documents larger than the surface of the digital scanner use the instructions for normal sized artifact photography For documents with several pages consider producing a PDF document from the originals or from black and white copies Two Dimensional Manuscripts or Artifacts RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in reflective mode Select 48 bit mode on the scanner to capture the maximum number of colours If this option is not available 24 bit mode is acceptable For reference purposes digitize a colour scale Kodak Q 14 or Q 60
4. 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in reflective mode Select 48 bit mode on the scanner to capture the maximum number of colours If this option is not available 24 bit mode is acceptable For reference purposes digitize a colour scale Kodak Q 14 or Q 60 before each digitization session Use a grey background Digitize the document with a grey or colour scale and depending on available space always place it in the same location ideally lower left Colour balance each image as indicated in the general guidelines See a i If there is no greyscale reference balance the levels of white shit aaa in the brightest zone D Max then balance the black in the Emain Paire pe forint oet darkest zone D Min Enlarge the frame by one inch at the bottom and type the document j rea number in black at the lower right font Arial 40 pts pA x Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines seat lie cs gt j LR 4 ae et Wma Se i Ge es BS a a oie i ri art r CD2005 0957 E2005 02445 4 TYPE OF DOCUMENT All documents with notable transparency and or a glossy finish Example duplicate copy of correspondence NOTES To optimize results do a test before applying the
5. and photographic documents the image is saved at _____ x 768 pixels For documents with small characters the image is saved at __x 1130 pixels JPEG files are saved at 72 ppi with the lower level of compression level 12 Note The empty space represented by the underlined blank e g ______ x 768 pixels is left open to accommodate variations in size The number of pixels 768 or 1130 refers to the longest measurement of the document being digitized GENERAL GUIDELINES 4 WHEN BURNING IMAGES ONTO CD FOR DEPOSIT IN THE ARCHIVES a Use a good quality CD CD R rather than CD RW with a reflective gold coating e g MAM A CD R Gold b Burn the CD at a slower speed 4X to ensure a deep impression c Check that the information burned into the CD has been effectively transferred d Use water based ink markers KODAK Color Control Patches 5 WHEN CALIBRATING THE WHITE GREY AND BLACK AREAS REFER TO THE ADJACENT GRID TO COMPLY WITH THE LEVELS USED AT THE CMCC Furthermore to secure RGB variance on Kodak O 14 colour and grey scales a The reading of white from the Kodak scales must be made within a range of 5 pixels b The data for each of the RGB channels must not vary by more than 3 KODAK Q 14 KODAK Gray Scale COM Scales are useful for correcting a poor quality digital image or for batch digitization EE WHITE NEUTRAL GREY M BLACK Note When correction is necessary do not
6. does not offer optimal rendering of individual images Type the artifact s catalogue number in the lower right in white if the background is black and in black if the background is neutral grey font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines EXAMPLES 26 Small Artifacts fom CD2005 0683 D2005 14171 CD2005 0683 D2005 14172 Lu EL KhVk 1 11 CD2006 0054 D2005 22759 4 TYPE OF ARTIFACT Examples vase goblet marble other MANDATORY Black or neutral grey background Artifact catalogue number Colour or white grey black scale Artifact placed straight Ensure that the catalogue number and scale can be excluded if necessary PROCEDURES If there is no variation in pattern a single side is photographed with the colour or white grey black scale Use a digital camera capable of capturing a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 300 ppi in either RAW or TIFF Use a regular lens ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY RECOMMENDATIONS In the Studio At the beginning of each session with new lighting adjust the camera s white balance and for reference purposes photograph a Kodak Q 14 colour scale Import the image into
7. established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines CD2004 1765 B569 5 2 15 PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS S NOTES Placement of a negative s emulsion side varies from one scanner to another To ensure that the emulsion is against the proper face of the optical reader follow individual scanner guidelines Do test scans whenever possible Depending on the quality of the negative it is sometimes preferable to digitize as a positive and then invert the image using image processing software e g Photoshop Concentric ring patterns dark and bright bands may appear while scanning negatives These patterns are called Newton s Rings and are caused by the interaction of light waves reflecting on two glossy surfaces one convex and one flat and the air pockets between them Possible ways to avoid them a use a mount to raise the negative thus avoiding contact with the scanner glass b insert an anti Newton s ring sheet between the negative and the scanner glass REMARKS Keep a border around the document to allow reframing as well as later modifications The technician must verify the final image by comparing the original negative with the digitized version RECOMMENDATIONS 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate t
8. grey Newspapers Ink Dot Printing RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest dimension 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in reflective mode Select 48 bit mode on the scanner to capture the maximum number of colours If this option is not available 24 bit mode is acceptable For reference purposes digitize a colour scale Kodak Q 14 or Q 60 before each digitization session Use a grey background Digitize the document with a grey or colour scale and depending on available space always place it in the same location ideally lower left Colour balance each image as indicated in the general guidelines If there is no greyscale reference balance the levels of white in the brightest zone D Max then balance the black in the darkest zone D Min Enlarge the frame by one inch at the bottom and type the document number in black at the lower right font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits If the document is black and white save in Gray Gamma 2 2 8 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as
9. image processing software e g Photoshop and adjust the levels on the colour scale with the points of reference indicated in the general guidelines Save the data in ALV format since this information will apply to all photos taken during the same photography session Taking the Picture Place the colour or white grey black scale showing measurements at the foot of the artifact Save space on the lower right to record the object s catalogue number Photograph the object a single time with an appropriate scale At the Computer Image Processing Software Apply the ALV information to all images within the same studio session Works well for batch digitization and improves productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images Type the artifact s catalogue number in the lower right in white if the background is black and in black if the background is neutral grey font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines EXAMPLES Round Artifacts ln 89 256 1 2 CD2005 0816 D2005 18149 lt S 2004 9 1 40 CD2004 0904 D2004 05555 27 ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY A TYPE OF ARTIFACT Examples bottle plate other MAND
10. levels between the two extremes pure black level 0 and pure white level 255 It is sometimes necessary before saving the final digital image to work with cursors within Photoshop to optimize quality at both the black and white levels Note It is best to make any corrections to the image ona duplicate digital file GENERAL GUIDELINES Reference Technical Guidelines for Digitizing Archival Materials for Electronic Access Creation of Production Master Files Raster Images U S National Archives and Records Administration NARA by Steven Puglia Jeffrey Reed and Erin Rhodes June 2004 http www archives gov preservation technical guidelines pdf IN SOME INSTANCES BATCH PROCESSING CAN BE CARRIED OUT IT IS USED MAINLY WHEN The quality of the original material being digitized is of less importance For consultative and visual reference purposes and To correct a group of images with similar issues or problems Note Should this method be used it is important to remember that this process cannot provide an optimal digital rendering of each individual image If you opt for batch digitization follow the steps below Digitize a colour scale before each digitization session Balance the RGB channels on the first image as indicated in the general guidelines above Save this data and apply the same ALV to all subsequent images WHEN SCANNING OR PHOTOGRAPHING ANY MATERIAL THE MINIMAL REQUIREMENTS FOR WORKING ARE
11. object as much as possible and capture details The artifact must fill the frame as much as possible Use a digital camera capable of capturing a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 300 ppi in either RAW or TIFF OPTIONAL To eliminate shadows Raise the artifact by placing it on a showcase raised approximately 20 cm above the grey background This will eliminate shadows Place a lamp flash on each side of the showcase each facing the artifact at a 45 angle to the bottom RECOMMENDATIONS In the Studio At the beginning of each session with new lighting adjust the camera s white balance and for reference purposes photograph a Kodak O 14 colour scale Import the image into image processing software e g Photoshop and adjust the levels on the colour scale with the points of reference as indicated in the general guidelines Save the data in ALV format since this information will apply to all photos taken during the same photography session Taking the Picture Photograph the artifact with a small white grey black scale measuring 1 cm 2 cm or 3 cm Save space on the bottom right to record the object s catalogue number Photograph the object twice with the scale one front view and one back view At the Computer Image Processing Software Apply the ALV information to all images within the same studio session Works well for batch digitization and improves productivity but
12. AS ARE Hardware scanner camera monitor etc must be calibrated on a regular basis Room wall colours should be neutral Room lighting should be kept at the lowest level Monitor should be protected from direct light to avoid reflections Working area kept as dust free as possible WHEN PHOTOGRAPHING ARTIFACTS GENERAL PROCEDURES REQUIRE Using a regular lens unless otherwise specified Using a professional studio flash set up not the camera flash Text Documents sn ADP Music VE i y ev iden Ce de tr agile lap their 2 1 FE Aee _ i vig Mie was kept du temps dausic te o fot asar meert explainingnt environ deals about the f y arre dos i to amp circle of Cyjme franc Ae MUSIC 10r T Dr Barbea 4 the childri 77 ik apd illustrating froth tal 2 Aae THE EVE ine Ab 7 hi fo tien af mar nents however Cana a des si cles From ea far da y by canot sauvat Kash proc al p of Ctt efle mais eS ae Two Dimensional Manuscripts or Artifacts Black and White Printed Materials Printed Materials with Photographs and or Annotations Onionskin Rice Paper Tracing Paper Newspapers Ink Dot Printing M ENING CITIZ cenn Cohr w Mu la ice fin dren T ten LEY EL be al Eugene tympan IN TAREN arleton other in RO ernoon appeara RD f UTEMn NA e child the sr l AET 1 te Se Laflami J fi de nn the ithe ear TEXT DOCUMENTS
13. ATORY Black or neutral grey background Artifact catalogue number Colour or white grey black scale Artifact placed straight Ensure that the catalogue number and scale can be excluded if necessary PROCEDURES Document the artifact as a whole Document the trademark or signature seal or hallmark on the artifact For this type of shot and exceptionally the artifact can be tipped over if necessary Use a digital camera capable of capturing a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 300 ppi in either RAW or TIFF Use a regular lens 28 Artifacts with a Trademark Seal Signature or Hallmark RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES In the Studio At the beginning of each session with new lighting adjust the camera s white balance and for reference purposes photograph a Kodak Q 14 colour scale Import the image into image processing software e g Photoshop and adjust the levels on the colour scale with the points of reference as indicated in the general guidelines Save the data in ALV format since this information will apply to all photos taken during the same photography session Taking the Picture Place the colour scale showing measurement at the foot of the artifact Save space on the lower right to inscribe the object s catalogue number Photograph the object two or three times one or two views documenting the artifact as a whole and one view of the seal removing the scale if it would encroa
14. Dig itizatio N Sta n c a rds LIBRARY ARCHIVES AND DOCUMENTATION SERVICES Kathleen Brosseau Mylene Choquette Louise Renaud for the Canadian Museum Version 1 1 March 2006 of Civilization Corporation CANADIAN MUSEUM OF CIVILIZATION CANADIAN WAR MUSEUM C di MUS E CANADIEN DES CIVILISATIONS JR MUS E CANADIEN DE LA GUERRE anada Library and Archives Canada Cataloguing in Publication Canadian Museum of Civilization Digitization standards for the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation Kathleen Brosseau Myl ne Choquette Louise Renaud Text in English and French on inverted pages Title on added t p Normes de num risation de la Soci t du mus e canadien des civilisations ISBN 0 662 49507 1 Cat no NM24 16 2006 1 Digital preservation Standards Canada 2 Archival materials Digitization 3 Photographs Digitization 4 Photography of antiquities 5 Museum conservation methods Renaud Louise 1954 Il Brosseau Kathleen Ill Choquette Myl ne IV Title V Title Normes de num risation de la Soci t du mus e canadien des civilisations Z681 3 D53C36 2006 06252 C2006 980226 2E Table of Contents INIRODUCTION ye heer ener oe ene ren GENERALE GUIDELINES were ae eee re A TEXT DOCUMENTS ES ee Sea eg ioe i reer eS ee eee oe ee Be Coe E ie Two Dimensional Manuscripts or Artifacts Black and White Printed Materials Printed Materials with Photographs and or Annotations Onion
15. EG version as described in the general guidelines 30 Large Artifacts EXAMPLES INITIAL VIEW CD2005 0771 D2005 08312 REWORKED VIEW CD2005 0771 D2005 08312 FRONT VIEW BACK VIEW CD2005 0767 D2005 CD2005 0767 D2005 10447 10448 8 TYPE OF ARTIFACT Examples costume clothing other MANDATORY Black or neutral grey background Artifact catalogue number Colour or white grey black scale Artifact placed straight Ensure that the catalogue number and scale can be excluded if necessary PROCEDURES ltem Laid Flat Shoot the object from above stabilizing the camera on a solid structure such as scaffolding or tripod To avoid distortion of the object the back of the digital camera must be level and precisely parallel 180 angle to the artifact A back view is required Item on Mannequin Place the artifact on a mannequin To avoid distortion of the object the back of the camera must be level and precisely parallel 180 angle to the artifact For views of clothing details since framing of the image is restricted inclusion of a colour scale is not required Use a digital camera capable of capturing a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 300 ppi in either RAW or TIFF Use a regular lens ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY Artifacts Clothing Samples RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES In the Studio At the beginning of each session with new lighting adjust the camera s white b
16. able 24 bit mode is acceptable As a point of reference digitize a colour scale Kodak Q 14 or Q 60 before each digitization session Use a grey background Digitize the document with a grey or colour scale and depending on available space always place it in the same location ideally lower left Colour balance each image as indicated in the general guidelines If there is no greyscale reference balance the levels of white in the brightest zone D Max then balance the black in the darkest zone D Min Enlarge the frame by one inch at the bottom and type the document number in black at the lower right font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits or if the document is black and white convert in Gray Gamma 2 2 8 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines EXAMPLES 14 Photographs CD2004 1610 MU VM 88 863 CD2004 1610 MU VM 88 859 2 TYPE OF DOCUMENT Prints with more than one image Examples stereograph photograph on cardboard more than one photo NOTES Digitize at a higher resolution to ensure a sufficient number of pixels when viewing each individual image REMARKS Keep a border around the document to allow reframing as well as later modifications e g remov
17. alance and for reference purposes photograph a Kodak Q 14 colour scale Import the image into image processing software e g Photoshop and adjust the levels on the colour scale with the points of reference as indicated in the general guidelines Save the data in ALV format since this information will apply to all photos taken during the same photography session Taking the Picture Place the colour scale showing measurements at the foot of the artifact Save space on the lower right to record the artifact s catalogue number Photograph twice with the scale one front view and one back view and if necessary once or twice for details At the Computer Image Processing Software Apply the ALV information to all images within the same studio session Works well for batch digitization and improves productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images Type the artifact s catalogue number in the lower right in white if the background is black and in black if the background is neutral grey font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines ITEM LAID FLAT CD2005 0900 D2005 10877 N E 28 ITEM ON HEAD CD2004 1828 D2004 23812
18. before each digitization session Use a grey background Digitize the document with a grey or colour scale and depending on available space always place it in the same position ideally lower left Colour balance each image as indicated in the general guidelines If there is no greyscale reference balance the levels of white in the brightest zone D Max then balance the black in the darkest zone D Min Enlarge the frame by one inch at the bottom and type the document number in black at the lower right font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines CD2004 1610 MU C 5 1 3 2 TYPE OF DOCUMENT Includes relatively recent documents black on white without annotations without images with clear print with sharp contrast between the ink and the paper and on paper that is neither yellowed nor stained Examples book document printed on a laser or inkjet printer REMARKS Keep a border around the document to allow reframing as well as later modifications e g removing the scale and document number Batch digitization enhances productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images For documents larger than the surface of the digital scan
19. ch on the detail being recorded At the Computer Image Processing Software Apply the ALV information to all images within the same studio session Works well for batch digitization and improves productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images Type the artifact s catalogue number in the lower right in white if the background is black and in black if the background is neutral grey font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines CD2006 0215 D2006 02400 A 3978 CD2006 0215 D2006 02402 6 TYPE OF ARTIFACT Examples carpet cloth other MANDATORY Black or neutral grey background Artifact catalogue number Colour or white grey black scale Artifact placed straight Ensure that the catalogue number and scale can be excluded if necessary PROCEDURES Shoot the object from above stabilizing the camera on a solid structure such as scaffolding To avoid distortion of the object the back of the digital camera must be level and precisely parallel 180 angle to the artifact If the pattern is uniform it is acceptable to fold the material in order to show a section A back view is also required unless the two sides are identica
20. cting on two glossy surfaces one convex and one flat and the air pockets between them PPI PIXELS PER INCH A unit of measurement used for spatial resolution of a digital image Resolution is often referred to as dots per inch or DPI This term is appropriate when describing printer resolution In common usage the terms PPI and DPI are used interchangeably however since image files are composed of pixels PPI is a more accurate term for digital images and has been used in this document RAW INITIAL IMAGE FILE Contains minimal processed data from a digital camera or a scanner Before any manipulation can be done the RAW file must be converted into another format RGB RED GREEN BLUE The main colours in photography TIFF TAGGED INFORMATION FILE FORMAT A lossless image format developed for the purpose of storing high resolution bit mapped greyscale and colour images Notes Canadian Museum of Civilization 100 Laurier Street Gatineau Quebec K1A 0M8 E mail library civilization ca Internet www civilization ca Canadian War Museum 1 Vimy Place Ottawa Ontario K1A 0M8 E mail vimy biblio warmuseum ca Internet Www warmuseum ca 2006 All rights reserved No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic or mechanical including photocopying recording or any retrieval system without the prior written permission of the publisher
21. described in the general guidelines CD2005 0855 E2005 00880 re mil fl mul E Pi f i r t ain AT CD2005 0957 E2005 02446 Photographic Documents Oe ee ee Photographs Multiple Photographs Black and White Negatives Black and White Negatives with Multiple Images Glass Negatives Colour Negatives Slides 35mm Colour Transparencies Lantern Slides 13 PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS 1 TYPE OF DOCUMENT Includes all photographic prints black and white monochromatic or colour Examples black and white print colour print sepia print ferrotype ambrotype daguerreotype other REMARKS Keep a border around the document to allow reframing as well as later modifications e g removing the scale and document number Batch digitization enhances productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images For documents larger than the surface of the digital scanner use the instructions for normal sized artifact photography RECOMMENDATIONS 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest dimension 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in reflective mode Select 48 bit mode on the scanner to capture the maximum number of colours If this option is not avail
22. e specialized tools which can provide much more comprehensive information than what is offered in these few pages When in doubt always refer to a specialist The overall information is based primarily on recommendations found in the U S National Archives and Records Administration NARA document Technical Guidelines for Digitizing Archival Materials for Electronic Access Creation of Production Master Files Raster Images and on current practices at the Gatineau Preservation Centre Library and Archives Canada LAC General Guidelines GENERAL GUIDELINES TO CALCULATE THE NUMBER OF PIXELS PER INCH PPI FORA STANDARD 8 X 10 IMAGE AT 300 PPI USE THE FOLLOWING FORMULA 3000 greatest length in inches number of ppi and digitize at 100 Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Examples To digitize a document measuring 7 x 8 5 inches 3000 8 5 352 round off to 360 ppi To digitize a 2 x 3 negative 3000 3 1000 ppi THE MAIN FILE FORMATS USED AT THE CMCC ARE TIFF the master file and the archived final version of the image JPEG the surrogate file used for circulation and consultation and the current image format attached to the catalogue record AT THE CMCC THE DIMENSIONS OF IMAGE FILES IN JPEG FORMAT WILL VARY DEPENDING ON THE NEEDS OF THE ARCHIVES OR COLLECTION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS OR BASED ON WEB REQUIREMENTS THE USUAL STANDARDS ARE For text
23. eneral guidelines CD2005 0935 E2005 01552 TEXT DOCUMENTS S TYPE OF DOCUMENT These documents are similar to those described previously but have distinctive markings that may be useful to see in colour Examples book whose aging you want to show book with colour or lead pencil annotations REMARKS For this type of document digitization can be combined by alternating use of the grey and colour scales For example in a book having text pages with illustrations or photos digitize the text pages using the guidelines for greyscale and digitize the pages with illustrations using the guidelines for RGB Keep a border around the document to allow reframing as well as later modifications e g removing the scale and document number Batch digitization enhances productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images For documents larger than the surface of the digital scanner use the instructions for normal sized artifact photography For documents with several pages consider producing a PDF document from the originals or from black and white copies 10 Printed Material with Photographs and or Annotations RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest dimension 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures
24. eral guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in transparency mode For reference purposes digitize a transparent colour scale on film before each digitization session If the slide allows reframe the image in a way which preserves the border and any notations found there Balance the white levels in the whitest zone D Max then balance the black in the blackest zone D Min Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines CD2003 0606 S2001 5973 PROCEDURES Verify the film type If the scanner offers this option select the appropriate film profile and apply it to the digitization session Ideally the colour scale used should be identical to the film type e g Fuji film digitized using a Fuji scale If the type of film is unknown do test scans to optimize the digital rendering of the image Do not scan the slide mount However if valuable information is inscribed on it follow the Lantern Slide procedures and remarks 8 TYPE OF DOCUMENT Slides larger than 35 mm e g 120 mm 4 x 5 8 x 10 etc NOTES Placement of the emulsion side varies from one scanner to another To ensure that it is a
25. f the optical reader follow individual scanner guidelines Do test scans if possible Depending on the quality of the negative it is sometimes preferable to digitize as a positive and then invert the image with image processing software e g Photoshop Concentric ring patterns dark and bright bands may appear while scanning negatives These patterns are called Newton s Rings and are caused by the interaction of light waves reflecting on two glossy surfaces one convex and one flat and the air pockets between them Possible ways to avoid them a use a mount to raise the negative thus avoiding contact with the scanner glass b insert an anti Newton s ring sheet between the negative and the scanner glass REMARKS The technician must verify the final image by comparing the original negative with the digitized version PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS Colour Negatives RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in transparency mode For reference purposes digitize a transparent colour scale on film before each digitization session Digitize as a positive and then invert the image with image processing software e g Photos
26. for reference purposes photograph a Kodak O 14 colour scale Import the image into image processing software e g Photoshop and adjust the levels on the colour scale with points of reference as indicated in the general guidelines Save the data in ALV format since this information will apply to all photos taken during the same photography session Taking the Picture Place the colour scale showing measurement at the foot of the artifact Save space on the lower right to record the object s catalogue number Photograph twice with the scale one front view and one back view At the Computer Image Processing Software Apply the ALV information to all images within the same studio session Works well for batch digitization and improves productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images Type the artifact s catalogue number in the lower right in white if the background is black and in black if the background is neutral grey font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines 24 Normal Sized Artifacts EXAMPLES FRONT VIEW CD2005 0056 D2004 24740 BACK VIEW CD2005 0056 D2004 24741 BLACK BACKGROUND CD2004 0269 D2004 00381
27. g contact with the scanner glass b insert an anti Newton s ring sheet between the negative and the scanner glass REMARKS The technician must verify the final image by comparing the original negative with the digitized version RECOMMENDATIONS 600 ppi with a minimum of 6000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in transparency mode For reference purposes digitize a transparent greyscale on film before each digitization session Digitize as a positive and then invert the image with image processing software e g Photoshop If the negative allows reframe the image in a way which preserves the border and any notations found there Balance the white levels in the lightest zone D Max then balance the black in the darkest zone D Min Convert in greyscale profile Gray Gamma 2 2 8 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines EXAMPLES 18 Glass Negatives REVERSED CD2002 115 002 6 NOTES Placement of a negative s emulsion side varies from one scanner to another To ensure that the emulsion is against the proper face o
28. gainst the proper face of the optical reader follow individual scanner guidelines Concentric ring patterns dark and bright bands may appear while scanning transparencies These patterns are called Newton s Rings and are caused by the interaction of light waves reflecting on two glossy surfaces one convex and one flat and the air pockets between them Possible ways to avoid them a use a mount to raise the negative thus avoiding contact with the scanner glass b insert an anti Newton s ring sheet between the negative and the scanner glass REMARKS The technician must verify the final image by comparing the original transparency with the digitized version Batch digitization enhances productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS RECOMMENDATIONS 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in transparency mode For reference purposes digitize a transparent colour scale on film before each digitization session If the transparency allows reframe the image in a way which preserves the border and any notations found there Balance the white levels in the whitest zone D Max then balance the blac
29. he number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in transparency mode As a point of reference digitize a transparent greyscale on film before each digitization session to calibrate the equipment Digitize as a positive and then invert the image with image processing software e g Photoshop If the negative allows reframe the image in a way which preserves the border and any notations found there Balance the levels of white in the brightest zone D Max then balance the black in the darkest zone D Min Convert in greyscale profile Gray Gamma 2 2 8 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines 16 Black and White Negatives EXAMPLES ORIGINAL CD2002 129 031 REVERSED AND REFRAMED CD2002 129 031 RL Ce b J LT ical VS b oe Weare i a E ah a 4 NOTES Placement of a negative s emulsion side varies from one scanner to another To ensure that the emulsion is against the proper face of the optical reader follow individual scanner guidelines Digitize at a higher resolution to ensure a sufficient number of pixels when viewing each individual image Do test scans if possible Depending on the quality of the negative it is sometimes preferable to digitize as a po
30. hop If the negative allows reframe the image to preserve the border and any notations found there Balance the white levels in the whitest zone D Max then balance the black in the blackest zone D Min Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines PROCEDURES Verify the film type If the scanner offers this option select the appropriate film profile and apply it to the digitization session Ideally the colour scale used should be identical to the film type e g Fuji film digitized using a Fuji scale If the type of film is unknown do test scans to optimize the digital rendering of the image REVERSED CD98 11 045 19 PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS NOTES Placement of the emulsion side varies from one scanner to another To ensure that it is against the proper face of the optical reader follow individual scanner guidelines REMARKS The technician must verify the final image by comparing the original slide with the digitized version Batch digitization enhances productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images 20 Slides 35mm RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the gen
31. hotography session Taking the Picture Place the colour scale showing measurement at the foot of the artifact Save space on the lower right to record the object s catalogue number Photograph the object twice once with the scale and once without At the Computer Image Processing Software Apply the ALV information to all images within the same studio session Works well for batch digitization and improves productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images Type the artifact s catalogue number in the lower right in white if the background is black and in black if the background is neutral grey font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines Reflective Artifacts EXAMPLES CD2004 00269 D2004 00376 CD2004 00269 D2004 00375 25 ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY S TYPE OF ARTIFACT Examples artifact from archaeological digs glass bead coin other MANDATORY Black or neutral grey background Artifact catalogue number Colour or white grey black scale Artifact placed straight Ensure that the catalogue number and scale can be excluded if necessary PROCEDURES For tiny objects a macro lens is required in order to enlarge the
32. ing the scale and document number Batch digitization enhances productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS Multiple Photographs RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES 600 ppi with a minimum of 6000 pixels for the longest dimension 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in reflective mode Select 48 bit mode on the scanner to capture the maximum number of colours If this option is not available 24 bit mode is acceptable As a point of reference digitize a colour scale Kodak Q 14 or Q 60 before each digitization session Use a grey background Digitize the document with a grey or colour scale and depending on available space always place it in the same location ideally lower left Colour balance each image as indicated in the general guidelines If there is no greyscale reference balance the levels of white in the brightest zone D Max then balance the black in the darkest zone D Min Enlarge the frame by one inch at the bottom and type the document number in black at the lower right font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards
33. k in the blackest zone D Min Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines PROCEDURES Verify the film type If the scanner offers this option select the appropriate film profile and apply it to the digitization session Ideally the colour scale used should be identical to the film type e g Fuji film digitized using a Fuji scale If the type of film is unknown do test scans to optimize the digital rendering of the image Colour Transparencies EXAMPLES CD94 685 006 21 PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS ve NOTES Digitize at high resolution due to the fragility of lantern slides and for preservation purposes Concentric ring patterns dark and bright bands may appear while scanning lantern slides These patterns are called Newton s Rings and are caused by the interaction of light waves reflecting on two glossy surfaces one convex and one flat and the air pockets between them Possible ways to avoid them a use a mount to raise the negative thus avoiding contact with the scanner glass b insert an anti Newton s ring sheet between the negative and the scanner glass REMARKS The technician must verify the final image by comparing the original lantern slide with the digitized version Batch digitizati
34. l In such case a single view will suffice Use a digital camera capable of capturing a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 300 ppi in either RAW or TIFF Use a regular lens ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY Long Artifacts in Supple Materials RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES In the Studio At the beginning of each session with new lighting adjust the camera s white balance and for reference purposes photograph a Kodak O 14 colour scale Import the image into image processing software e g Photoshop and adjust the levels on the colour scale with the points of reference as indicated in the general guidelines Save the data in ALV format since this information will apply to all photos taken during the same photography session Taking the Picture Place the colour scale showing measurements at the foot of the artifact Save space on the lower right to record the object s catalogue number Photograph the object twice with the scale one front view and one back view CD2006 0247 D2006 02044 At the Computer Image Processing Software Apply the ALV information to all images within the same studio session Works well for batch digitization and improves productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images Type the artifact s catalogue number in the lower right in white if the background is black and in black if the background is neutral grey font Arial 40 pts Flatten the i
35. mage i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines CD2006 0247 D2006 02045 CD2005 0039 D2004 26683 29 ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY TYPE OF ARTIFACT Examples painting poster furniture other MANDATORY Black or neutral grey background Artifact catalogue number Colour or white grey black scale Artifact placed straight Ensure that the catalogue number and scale can be excluded if necessary Ensure uniform lighting and background PROCEDURES Shoot the object from above stabilizing the camera on a solid structure such as scaffolding or tripod To avoid distortion of the object the back of the digital camera must be level and precisely parallel 180 angle to the artifact A painting or piece of furniture can also be placed so that the corners are 90 to the camera s viewfinder Additional views are acceptable For views of details since framing of the image is restricted inclusion of a colour scale is not required Use a digital camera capable of capturing a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 300 ppi in either RAW or TIFF Use a regular lens RECOMMENDATIONS In the Studio At the beginning of each session with new lighting adjust the camera s whi
36. ment In reflective mode only digitize the document with a grey or colour scale and depending on available space always place the scale in the same location ideally lower left Colour balance each image as indicated in the general guidelines If there is no greyscale reference balance the levels of white in the brightest zone D Max then balance the black in the darkest zone D Min Enlarge the frame by one inch at the bottom and type the document number in black at the lower right font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert both files in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits or if the document is black and white convert in Gray Gamma 2 2 8 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives e Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines Rice Paper Tracing Paper EXAMPLES een 0101010101 REFLECTIVE MODE CD2004 0008 B322 17 1 TRANSPARENCY MODE D2006 05007 11 TEXT DOCUMENTS SP TYPE OF DOCUMENT Examples newspaper magazine stamp PROCEDURES Digitize in de screening mode This will help minimize the moir pattern which results from scans of ink dot printing When it is necessary to cut out an article from the rest of the newspaper create an outline of the article in question invert your selection then fill the remaining surface with white or 50
37. ner use the instructions for normal sized artifact photography For documents with several pages consider producing a PDF document from the originals or from black and white copies TEXT DOCUMENTS Black and White Printed Materials RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in reflective mode For reference purposes digitize a colour scale Kodak Q 14 or Q 60 before each digitization session Use a grey background Digitize the document with a grey or colour scale and depending on available space always place it in the same location ideally lower left Colour balance each image as indicated in the general guidelines If there is no greyscale reference balance the levels of white in the brightest zone D Max then balance the black in the darkest zone D Min Enlarge the frame by one inch at the bottom and type the document number in black at the lower right font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in greyscale profile Gray Gamma 2 2 8 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the g
38. on enhances productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images If digitization is meant to emphasize the information on the slide s frame it is recommended that a second digitization of the slide be done this time in reflective mode The frame is thus considered a document with digitization carried out according to instructions for two dimensional manuscripts or artifacts RECOMMENDATIONS 600 ppi with a minimum of 6000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in transparency mode For reference purposes digitize a transparent colour scale on film before each digitization session If the slide allows reframe the image in a way which preserves the border and any notations found there If it is a black and white lantern slide apply the same procedures as for glass negatives Balance the white levels in the whitest zone D Max then balance the black in the blackest zone D Min Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines PROCEDURES Include the frame of the slide to capt
39. reframe the image in a way which preserves the border and any notations found there Balance the white levels in the lightest zone D Max and then balance the black in the darkest zone D Min Convert in greyscale profile Gray Gamma 2 2 8 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines ORIGINAL CD2002 1122 62100 5 REVERSED AND NOT REFRAMED TO PRESERVE INFORMATION IN THE MARGINS CD2002 1122 62100 5 17 PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS J NOTES Placement of a negative s emulsion side varies from one scanner to another To ensure that the emulsion is against the proper face of the optical reader follow individual scanner guidelines Digitize at a higher resolution due to the fragility of the negative and for preservation purposes Do test scans if possible Depending on the quality of the negative it is sometimes preferable to digitize as a positive and then invert the image with image processing software e g Photoshop Concentric ring patterns dark and bright bands may appear while scanning negatives These patterns are called Newton s Rings and are caused by the interaction of light waves reflecting on two glossy surfaces one convex and one flat and the air pockets between them Possible ways to avoid them a use a mount to raise the negative thus avoidin
40. s At the Computer Image Processing Software Apply the ALV information to all images within the same studio session Works well for batch digitization and improves productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images Type the artifact s catalogue number in the lower right in white if the background is black and in black if the background is neutral grey font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JPEG version as described in the general guidelines Artifacts with Multiple Components EXAMPLES CD2005 0266 D2005 02680 32 Glossary 33 GLOSSARY For additional definitions such as reflective mode transparency mode de screening mode etc refer to the Photoshop user s manual 34 ALV File format used for saving levels and curves in histograms in Adobe Photoshop JPEG JOINT PHOTOGRAPHIC EXPERTS GROUP A lossy compression technique used for saving images and photographs This compression method reduces the file size of an image but reduces also its quality NEWTON S RINGS Concentric ring patterns dark and bright bands may appear while scanning negatives glass negatives transparencies and lantern slides These rings are caused by the interaction of light waves refle
41. save your changes on Reference Levels 237 237 237 BA Fo the original image Instead create a duplicate digital file and work Recommended Levels 233 to 248 98 to 106 19 to 27 on that version Levels Used for 233 to 248 145 to 155 CMCC Collections 30 to 40 C SN M 1 A VARIANCE OF 3 Yi 1 IS ACCEPTABLE K ox X 5 828 W t y 23745 F H MACBETH SCALE SAMPLES HISTOGRAM INDICATING A BALANCED EXPOSURE GENERAL GUIDELINES KODAK Q 60 HISTOGRAM INDICATING A POOR EXPOSURE SCALE SAMPLES USED AT THE CMCC ARE The Kodak Q 14 mainly used alongside the material being digitized or photographed The Kodak Q 60 used primarily for reference purposes A homemade scale based on the squares of the Kodak O 14 scale is also used for smaller objects in the CMCC collection It is important that the squares be identical in size to one another squares of 1 cm2 are recommended and it is useful to include a reference measurement A small commercial white grey black scale used for macro photography of artifacts Notes The use of a detailed colour scale such as MacBeth digital colour checkers may come in handy when working with specific types of media For reliability purpose the scale used must be clean without dust or stains DURING DIGITIZATION IT IS IMPORTANT TO CHECK THE HISTOGRAM TO ENSURE THAT THE IMAGE IS NEITHER OVEREXPOSED NOR UNDEREXPOSED The histogram shows the distribution of colour
42. se recommendations REMARKS You can choose to digitize in reflective mode alone by applying the guidelines for greyscale Since this mode enables better reproduction of text it is recommended for all documents that are either difficult to read or have poor contrast Keep a border around the document to allow reframing as well as later modifications e g removing the scale and document number For documents larger than the surface of the digital scanner use the instructions for normal sized artifact photography For documents with several pages consider producing a PDF document from the originals or from black and white copies TEXT DOCUMENTS Onionskin RECOMMENDATIONS Because of the transparency of the document and because the grey background will bleed through digitize the document twice using a white background once in reflective mode then in transparency mode at 300 ppi with a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest dimensions 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to the general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi required for a given dimension Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Select 48 bit mode on the scanner to capture the maximum number of colours If this option is not available 24 bit mode is acceptable For reference purposes digitize a colour scale Kodak Q 14 or Q 60 before each digitization session to calibrate the equip
43. sitive and then invert the image with image processing software e g Photoshop Concentric ring patterns dark and bright bands may appear while scanning negatives These patterns are called Newton s Rings and are caused by the interaction of light waves reflecting on two glossy surfaces one convex and one flat and the air pockets between them Possible ways to avoid them a use a mount to raise the negative thus avoiding contact with the scanner glass b insert an anti Newton s ring sheet between the negative and the scanner glass REMARKS Keep a border around the document to allow reframing as well as later modifications The technician must verify the final image by comparing the original negative with the digitized version PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS Black and White Negatives with Multiple Images RECOMMENDATIONS EXAMPLES 600 ppi with a minimum of 6000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 or 1 1 for formats larger than 8 x 10 Refer to general guidelines to calculate the number of ppi necessary for the dimension of the document being digitized Note that it is the original document which measures 8 x 10 not the final digital file Digitize in transparency mode As a point of reference digitize a transparent greyscale on film before each digitization session Digitize as a positive and then invert the image with image processing software e g Photoshop If the negative allows
44. skin Rice Paper Tracing Paper Newspapers Ink Dot Printing PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTS 2 22 2 2 ess oboe 0 Photographs Multiple Photographs Black and White Negatives Black and White Negatives with Multiple Images Glass Negatives Colour Negatives Slides 35mm Colour Transparencies Lantern Slides ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY 23 ne Normal Sized Artifacts Reflective Artifacts Small Artifacts Round Artifacts Artifacts with a Trademark Seal Signature or Hallmark Long Artifacts in Supple Materials Large Artifacts Artifacts Clothing Samples Artifacts with Multiple Components GEOSSARY RE Ci 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 I7 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 INTRODUCTION Introduction This document is intended as a working tool aimed at standardizing the digitization process at the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation CMCC lt was created to address the Corporation s requirements within existing resources and uses actual examples illustrating the diversity of the collection The artifact photographs presented here are used primarily for documentary purposes and do not represent the types of photographs displayed in publications The document is neither exhaustive nor final It is instead a collection of basic guidelines and will likely evolve as technology and knowledge develop within this field The document is also not intended as a course in digitization There ar
45. te balance and for reference purposes photograph a Kodak Q 14 colour scale Import the image into image processing software e g Photoshop and adjust the levels on the colour scale with the points of reference as indicated in the general guidelines Save the data in ALV format since this information will apply to all photos taken during the same photography session Taking the Picture Place the colour scale showing measurements at the foot of the artifact Save space on the lower right to record the artifact s catalogue number Photograph twice with the scale one front view and one back view and if necessary one or two views of details At the Computer Image Processing Software Apply the ALV information to all images within the same studio session Works well for batch digitization and improves productivity but does not offer optimal rendering of individual images With the help of the image processing software rework the photo by copying and expanding the black or neutral grey background to fill the canvas evenly Type the artifact s catalogue number in the lower right in white if the background is black and in black if the background is neutral grey font Arial 40 pts Flatten the image i e flatten layers Convert in Adobe RGB 1998 profile 8 bits per channel total 24 bits Save the image as an uncompressed TIFF named to standards established by the Corporation s Photo Archives Produce a JP
46. ure all the information inscribed on it during digitization By playing with the levels in Photoshop it is possible to highlight either the image or the notations on the frame 22 Lantern Slides EXAMPLES LANTERN SLIDE WITH EMPHASIS ON THE IMAGE CD2003 0523 51166 LS SAME LANTERN SLIDE WITH DIFFERENT SATURATION LEVELS AND EMPHASIS ON THE FRAME AND ITS NOTATIONS CD2003 0523 51166 LS Artifact Photography ake Tat F i iy all r Oe T ee ee Normal Sized Artifacts Reflective Artifacts Small Artifacts Round Artifacts Artifacts with a Trademark Seal Signature or Hallmark Long Artifacts in Supple Materials Large Artifacts Artifacts Clothing Samples Artifacts with Multiple Components 23 ARTIFACT PHOTOGRAPHY 1 TYPE OF ARTIFACT Examples plate tool other MANDATORY Black or neutral grey background Artifact catalogue number Colour or white grey black scale Artifact placed straight Ensure that the catalogue number and scale can be excluded if necessary PROCEDURES For documentary purposes the artifact should be photographed at least twice at different angles Use a digital camera capable of capturing a minimum of 3000 pixels for the longest measurement 8 x 10 300 ppi in either RAW or TIFF Use a regular lens RECOMMENDATIONS In the Studio At the beginning of each session with new lighting adjust the camera s white balance and

Digitization Standards for the Canadian Museum of Civilization

Contents

Download Pdf Manuals

Related Search

Related Contents