Technical requirements

Implementing PHOTARCH in a studio, museum, or field environment

One of the core strengths of PHOTARCH is its adaptability. The method is designed to work with a range of camera systems, lighting conditions, and institutional budgets — as long as its principles are respected. This page outlines the minimum and recommended technical requirements for producing PHOTARCH-compliant images, from cameras and lenses to lighting and colour calibration.

Camera & Lens

PHOTARCH is agnostic to brand or sensor size. However, certain minimum standards are recommended:

• Minimum resolution: 24 MP (megapixels)
• Sensor: APS-C or larger (full-frame or medium format preferred)
• Lens: Prime or macro lens with low distortion
• Recommended focal lengths: 50–120mm (full-frame equivalent)

Mirrorless or DSLR systems are preferred for their manual control and RAW shooting capabilities, but high-end compact cameras or even smartphones can be used for training and educational purposes.

Scale and Colour Control

• Use of scale bars marked in both cm and mm
• Standard colour targets (e.g. X-Rite ColorChecker Classic or SG)
• Colour targets must be in the same light as the object
• Custom ICC profiles encouraged for optimal rendering

Consistent colour profiling ensures interoperability across platforms and time, especially when integrated with image databases or machine-learning datasets.

Software & File Format

• Capture in RAW format (e.g. .CR3, .NEF, .ARW)
• Post-processing in software that supports ICC workflows (e.g. Lightroom Classic, Capture One)
• Export as 16-bit TIFF (master), and JPEG (access copies)
• Embed EXIF/IPTC metadata directly or via sidecar files

All master files should be archived with non-destructive edits preserved. TIFFs may include embedded colour profiles and resolution metadata.

Optional but Recommended

• Repro stand or tripod with geared column or rail system
• Tethered capture workflow for immediate review
• Grey card for exposure verification
• Backup system

Summary: minimum vs. recommended

Component	Minimum	Recommended
Camera	24 MP APS-C	Full-frame or medium format
Lens	Fixed lens	Fixed 50–120mm macro
Lighting	One LED panel	High-CRI LED or strobe with modifier
Colour	X-Rite Classic	X-Rite SG + ICC profile
Software	Adobe Camera Raw	Lightroom Classic / Capture One

References

• X-Rite (2024). ColorChecker SG Documentation. X-Rite Global.