Camera Bucket

Part of the AIA methodology combines geochemical with typological data. While contextual and other information is recorded for each sherd a high quality photographic record is also required. To cope with the large volume of sherds processed during a field season we have developed a routine means of achieving publication quality images without complicated lighting or rigs. The AIA camera bucket, constructed from two 15 litre clear plastic buckets, is readily purchased from local suppliers. When assembled it provides an even, indirect source of natural light for digital artefact photography in virtually any environment (yep, even in the bowels of all but the darkest of storerooms!). A neat and easily reproducable approach to small finds photography that is also easy to transport or replace, the Camera Bucket has proven invaluable to our field recording work. We provide construction details below.

Instructions for the construction of the AIA Camera Bucket

Any feedback is welcome.