Student Photographic & Imaging Portal

At the School of Archaeology, under the expert guidance of Ian R. Cartwright—who brings over 25 years of combined experience as a professional photographer and archaeologist—you will gain essential technical skills in archaeological photography. These skills are tailored to support your research, from field documentation to thesis publication.

Whether your work involves microscopic imaging of charred seed samples, detailed photography of small finds, or capturing expansive archaeological landscapes, you’ll benefit from Ian’s extensive expertise within the School of Archaeology. The AiU offers access to a fully equipped, dedicated imaging space, including standard loan cameras and advanced tools such as portable RTI and 3D scanning equipment.

Students also benefit from termly skills seminars covering core topics such as photographing archaeological small finds, museum photography, excavation documentation, and advanced imaging techniques. These sessions are designed to build both foundational and specialist competencies in archaeological imaging.

As Ian notes, In a world dominated by ‘point-and-shoot’ and generative Ai digital photography, it’s easy to forget that successful archaeological photography still requires a deep understanding of method and technique.

In the AiU, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from Ian and develop the skills to produce images that are both scientifically valuable and visually enduring.

The AiU maintains close imaging partnerships with the Ashmolean Museum—located directly next door—and the Pitt Rivers Museum, providing students with privileged access to collections for Master’s and DPhil-level dissertation and thesis research.

Please send Ian an email to get in touch and set up a time to visit him at the imaging lab.