Object Photography
Object Photography is the specialized practice of photographing museum artifacts, artworks, and cultural items for documentation, preservation, and display purposes. It involves taking detailed, high-quality pictures of three-dimensional objects in a way that accurately represents their color, texture, size, and condition. This skill is particularly important in museums, archives, and cultural institutions where photographs serve as both documentation tools and resources for researchers, publications, and digital collections. Similar terms used in the field include "museum photography," "artifact photography," or "collections photography."
Examples in Resumes
Created detailed documentation using Object Photography for over 500 artifacts in the museum's Native American collection
Implemented standardized Object Photography procedures for the museum's digital archive project
Led Museum Photography initiatives to document fragile archaeological specimens
Managed Collections Photography for traveling exhibitions and online catalog
Typical job title: "Museum Photographers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Museum Photographers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you set up a museum-wide digital photography system and train staff to use it?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating standardized procedures, choosing appropriate equipment, establishing naming conventions, implementing quality control, and developing training programs for other staff members.
Q: How do you handle photographing a large collection of diverse objects with different preservation needs?
Expected Answer: Should explain prioritization strategies, working with conservators, adapting techniques for different materials, and managing time and resources effectively.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when photographing reflective or transparent objects?
Expected Answer: Should discuss lighting techniques, background choices, and methods to capture accurate representations of challenging materials while following museum standards.
Q: How do you maintain consistent quality across a large photography project?
Expected Answer: Should explain using standardized equipment settings, proper calibration, color management, and quality control procedures.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic equipment do you need for object photography in a museum setting?
Expected Answer: Should mention camera types, lighting equipment, backgrounds, and basic tools needed for museum photography work.
Q: How do you document the scale of an object in photographs?
Expected Answer: Should explain use of scale bars, color charts, and standard measurement techniques used in museum photography.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic photography techniques
- Understanding of museum documentation standards
- Basic photo editing software knowledge
- Ability to handle objects safely
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced lighting techniques
- Experience with various object materials
- Digital asset management
- Working with collection databases
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management
- Training and supervision
- Digital preservation standards
- Conservation awareness
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with handling delicate objects
- Lack of understanding of museum documentation standards
- No knowledge of digital asset management
- Poor attention to detail in portfolio
- No experience with museum collection management systems
Related Terms
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