Lesson: Technical Photography
This lesson explores the application of technical photography to examine iron gall ink. We will focus on how ultraviolet fluorescence (UVF) and infrared (IR) photography techniques can enhance the readability of faded or hidden text and distinguish iron gall ink from carbon-based inks.
Objectives
By the end of this lesson, participants will:
- Understand the basic principles of technical photography for ink analysis.
- Learn how to utilize UVF and infrared photography to enhance the visibility of iron gall ink.
- Gain hands-on experience in using modified cameras and specialized filters for full-spectrum photography.
- Learn how to distinguish between iron gall ink and carbon-based ink using visible, UVF, and infrared images.
Materials
- Technical Photography Kit, including:
- Halogen lamps
- UV and infrared light sources
- Robertina filter set (UV, visible, infrared)
- Camera modified for full-spectrum photography (UV, visible, IR)
- Parchment and paper samples with iron gall and carbon-based inks
Lesson Plan
1. Introduction to Technical Photography and Ink Analysis
-
- Explanation of the role of UVF and infrared photography in revealing faded or hidden ink.
- Introduction to technical photography and its role in ink and pigment analysis.
2. Using UV Fluorescence (UVF) Photography
-
- Demonstrate how UVF photography makes faded iron gall ink more readable.
- Practical steps for setting up the camera and UV light sources to capture UVF images.
- Hands-on practice: Students will use UVF photography on sample parchments and papers to observe the enhanced contrast of iron gall ink compared to carbon-based ink.
3. Infrared Photography for Ink Differentiation
-
- Introduction to infrared photography and its effectiveness in distinguishing iron gall ink from carbon-based ink.
- Demonstration of the setup for capturing infrared images and using false-color imaging to enhance ink differentiation.
- Hands-on practice: Students will capture infrared images and analyze the behavior of different inks.
4. Setting Up and Using Technical Photography Equipment
-
- Explanation of the components of the technical photography kit, including halogen, UV, and infrared light sources.
- How to use a full-spectrum modified camera and filter sets for capturing UV, visible, and infrared images.
