EH.R: Re: Digital cameras for archival research

[evan roberts]

In reply to John Murray's query about digital cameras for archival research, I used a digital camera to take copy 9000 pages of survey forms for data entry. With that experience I offer these comments:

* A minimum of 5 megapixels is ideal, and most new digital cameras will have that.

* The Nikon Coolpix range of cameras have a "document" setting that is ideal for photographing documents. If you prefer another camera, the document setting is basically equivalent to black and white images with a long shutter speed to compensate for the flash being off by default.

* The camera should have a "macro" feature for very close-up shots. This is often indicated by a "flower" icon on the screen or camera.

* A portable copy stand is ideal for ensuring sharp images, especially if the archive or library does not allow flash.

If people are interested in this topic I posted some much longer reflections on my experience capturing this information on the internet, which I hope might be useful.

http://blog.lib.umn.edu/robe0419/coffee/2006/05/24/amateur_digitiz.html

Evan Roberts

 
***************
Evan Roberts
Minnesota Population Center and Department of History
University of Minnesota
eroberts at pop.umn.edu
http://www.pop.umn.edu/~eroberts