Photogrammetry is the art and science of taking measurements from photographs. Today, we use high-performance computing to create detailed 3D models.
3D photogrammetry is now a standard recording technique in maritime archaeology. It allows archaeologists to record underwater sites in minutes or hours, rather than weeks, months or years.
A diver swims over a wreck site, taking many overlapping images. These are then processed into scaled 3D site plans using software such as Agisoft Metashape. These are far more accurate and complete than plans produced with traditional techniques.
More examples can be found on my Sketchfab page.
Museum objects can be captured to an even finer level of detail. These are carefully photographed in a controlled environment, using lightboxes, turtables and DSLR cameras. Most of the models below are featured in the Connections Gallery at the WA Museum Boola Bardip.
Photogrammetric models are a compelling way to visualise archaeological research. During my internship at the Pawsey Supercomputing Centre, I worked with the Centre for Rock Art Research + Management at UWA to support research on contact between the Yaburara people and North American whalers in Murujuga. We used airbourne LiDAR, drones, DSLRs and microscopes to tell a story across many scales - from the position in the landscape to microscopic use-wear patterns left by the artists.
I am available to consult on photogrammetry projects. If you need training, someone to help plan your survey, or even someone to capture and process imagery for you - get in touch!