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Advice on Still images
Still images: Creating new digital media
This section deals with the creation of digital image content for research, teaching and learning purposes. These technical advisory papers are targeted towards readers who will have hands-on responsibility for building new collections.
An Overview of Colour Management for Still Images
There is a lot of confusion around the subject of digital colour and the process of ensuring colour consistency for still images. This document provides an introduction to the different methods used to manage digital colour.
Read full advice document...Colour and Resolution Targets
In order to accurately calibrate and benchmark imaging devices, it is standard practice to capture colour targets and resolution targets. Capturing a target and assessing the results can give an accurate indication as to how your system is performing. This document lists a variety of targets that are used to measure a capture device's ability to resolve detail or record colour information. Some of these targets are widely used to calibrate cameras and scanners as part of an effective open loop colour system.
Read full advice document...Colour Management in Practice
This document provides a detailed explanation of the different approaches to colour management. The document also covers the process of calibration of monitors, scanners and printers as well as conversion between aditive and subtractive colour systems.
Read full advice document...Colour Theory: Understanding and Modelling Colour
Colour is an area of digital imaging that can lead to considerable confusion. This document provides a detailed introduction to colour theory.
Read full advice document...Creating JPEGs from your Master Archive Images
I need to create a copy of our master archive for online delivery. I understand that I will have to convert the high resolution TIFFs to JPEGs, what is the advantage?
Read full advice document...Digital Cameras
Digital cameras come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, this document details the different technologies used to capture a digital image. This paper also covers the features that a user should consider before choosing a digital camera.
Read full advice document...Digitising Microfiche and Microfilm
A microfiche is a very compact analogue storage media. A single 6" x 4" polyester microfiche can store all the pages of an average book.
Read full advice document...Do Digital Images Exist in the Real World?
While the traditional photographic print or negative is a 'real' tactile object, the digital image is just a series of ones and zeros stored on computer media. This document explains how the digital data is used to display or print a digital image.
Read full advice document...Free Online Image Editors
You don't need Photoshop if you want to edit your digital images. There are now countless alternatives - this advice document looks at free-to-use online image editors which let you work on images via your internet browser. As these free image editors are web-based, you don't need to install anything on your computer.
Read full advice document...How Do I Digitise Difficult Objects?
Scanners and digital cameras are the most commonly used devices for capturing still images; the digital files they create fit seamlessly into the modern workflow. This document looks at scanners and digital cameras and how they can be used to capture non-typical objects. In this document we look at a range of different objects and how we can capture them with a camera or scanner and a few accessories.
Read full advice document...Image Editing Software
Once you have created a digital image, you will nearly always need to undertake some form of image editing before it is ready for archiving or delivery. This paper looks at what you will need to consider when choosing the right software for your needs.
Read full advice document...Introduction to digitising bound volumes
Bound volumes such as books need to be digitised with care to avoid poor quality capture or damage to the book. This document looks at the specific problems posed when capturing bound documents and compares commonly used digitisation devices.
Read full advice document...Introduction to GIMP Image Editing Software
GIMP is a free open source image editing program. It has a comprehensive set of tools comparable to those available in commercial software such as Adobe Photoshop. GIMP can help you with simple and advanced image editing tasks. This document will look at the GIMP features that are of most use to those wanting to edit images for use in teaching and research.
Read full advice document...Introduction to the Vector Image Format
Digital image formats fall into two main categories: raster and vector. The raster format lends itself to continuous tone images such as photographs. This document introduces the vector image format which is more suited to the defined lines, curves and shapes of charts, logos, web graphics, technical drawings, cartoons and fonts.
Read full advice document...Is There Still a Role for Film?
As digital cameras become more popular, we ask whether there is any need for traditional analogue cameras and film.
Read full advice document...Model Release - Permission to Use Images of People
This document answers some frequently asked questions on getting consent to use images or recordings of people and includes links to sample model release forms.
Read full advice document...Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
This advice document looks at the process of converting printed type into a computer readable format. In the 1950s the first commercial optical character recognition (OCR) applications appeared, however it wasn't until the early 1990s that 'off the shelf' products were made available. This document looks at the OCR process and how the condition of the original document and the capture technique can affect the quality of the digital output.
Read full advice document...Photographic Guidelines
There are many factors that need to be considered before and during a photographic session, this document provides a set of guidelines which will assist in planning a photographic project.
Read full advice document...Print Size and File Size Calculator
This calculator will help you work out maximum print sizes you can expect from digital images. It will also work out approximate file sizes for Raw, TIFF and JPEG images. As long as you know the pixel dimensions of your image, the calculator will work out the rest for you. You can use it with digital camera images or other digital images.
Read full advice document...Resampling Raster Images
This document uses images to illustrate how different resampling methods will affect the appearance of the resized image. The most suitable method varies according to the type of image being resampled, this paper helps to guide the user to the appropriate resampling method for their images.
Read full advice document...Resolving the Units of Resolution
Much confusion is caused by the over-use of the generic unit of image resolution 'dpi'. It is always much better to use the correct unit specific to use. This paper looks at the definitions of spi, lpi, ppi as well as the generic dpi.
Read full advice document...Setting up a Workspace for Digitising Images
In planning a digitisation project, one of the major considerations will be where you decide to do the digitising and how to make best use of the workspace. Ensuring the area is designed and set up correctly will not only help establish a smooth and effective workflow, but will also make sure the project personnel involved are at their happiest and therefore at their most productive. This document looks at the main issues to be considered when planning and setting up a workspace for digital imaging.
Read full advice document...Taking Care of Your Digital Camera
It is almost impossible to avoid dust and airborne particles from entering your camera, but if a few precautions are taken, specialist cleaning can be postponed.
Read full advice document...Taking Pictures under Available Light
Most modern digital stills cameras have built in flashes, however these do not always produce a pleasing light, have a limited range and the flash can be distracting in some situations. Professional photographers normally like to have complete control over lighting in order to produce the highest quality images. It is however possible to produce high quality images without the cameras built in flash or in situations where you do not have total control over the lighting. Available or ambient light is the light in the scene before the photographer starts work and this FAQ document looks at common problems associated with available light and how to overcome them. You may also be interested in our Light Sources for Still and Moving Images advice document.
Read full advice document...Tethered Camera Operation
As technology has improved digital cameras have become more and more portable. Smaller and more ergonomic cameras have made digital photography more practical - however, there are times when it is preferable to use a more static system with camera and computer connected. This is known as tethered camera operation. This document is aimed at anyone who might need to operate their camera from a distance, in an awkward position or wants to preview the image on a high quality computer screen.
Read full advice document...The Book Scanner
While it is possible to digitise books and bound volumes using scanners or copystands the most efficient and least harmful device is the dedicated book scanner. For the purpose of this document we have tested a Zeutschel OS1200HQ which scans open books with a total area of A2+ at 400ppi book scanner and compared it to a copystand mounted Nikon D3 camera which captures at 4256 x 2832 pixels camera and an A4 Epson Perfection 4990 flatbed scanner with a maximum resolution of 4800ppi.
Read full advice document...The Camera Raw File Format
The Raw file format is the native format offered by most digital SLR cameras. The format can offer greater levels of control over the conversion of capture data to more widely accepted formats such as TIFF or JPEG formats. This document is an introduction to the format and how to make use of it.
Read full advice document...The Digital SLR Camera for Teaching, Learning and Digitisation
Digital SLR cameras have improved dramatically over recent years, they have also become much cheaper. Consumers can now buy an entry level digital SLR for around the same price as a top of the range compact. This paper explains the difference between a digital compact and digital SLR and shows how to get the most out of this type of camera.
Read full advice document...The Digital Still Image
The digital image is a more than just a loose arrangement of pixels; to accurately represent an image it must have a resolution and colour depth. This document explains what makes a digital image and how to use the resolution and colour depth appropriately.
Read full advice document...The PNG File Format
The Portable Network Graphics or PNG format is a versatile file format that is an open standard and provides many advantages.
Read full advice document...Using a Budget Digital Camera for Teaching, Learning and Research
Over recent years the price of digital cameras has tumbled while there has been a corresponding improvement in image quality. Compact digital cameras are compact flexible devices that work well in the modern workflow. This document provides an introduction to the compact camera and how to get the most from it.
Read full advice document...Vector Drawing Software
If you need to create your own diagrams, illustrations, logos or other graphics, there are a number of programs to choose from. This document looks at the main applications as well as some more specialist programs. It also highlights the main points to consider when choosing software.
Read full advice document...Vector Graphics Illustrated Glossary
An alphabetical list of commonly-used terms in vector graphics. Each term is defined and accompanied by one or more illustrations.
Read full advice document...What is Wavelet Compression?
The wavelet transform has been around about for some time, but has only recently been applied to image compression. It is now used within several file formats, but the best known is JPEG 2000
Read full advice document...Which Digital Camera Do You Recommend?
Unfortunately we are not able to recommend specific brands or models of camera. However, we can provide pointers to help you decide if a particular camera will suit your needs.
Read full advice document...Which Digital Camera File Formats Should I Use?
Our camera offers so many file formats, which one should we use?
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Related cross-media advice:
Analogue Film Types Used for Still and Moving images
This document looks at the history of photographic and movie film and how and why the film type has altered over time. The document also contains some frequently asked questions on film types and handling.
Read full advice document...Audio/Video Production: Recording Lectures, Seminars and Events
The principles and practice of location recording of sound and video for educational use.
In this paper we discuss requirements and issues to consider when recording events. We look at both sound-only and combined sound-and-vision recording. The discussion focuses on considerations applicable to any scenario the reader may encounter; for issues specific to different types of event the reader is directed to the appropriate Basic Guide.
We conclude with some example scenarios.
Read full advice document...Basic Guide to Accessibility
This paper looks at the issue of accessibility. The topic is introduced and defined and then the term 'reasonable adjustment' is explained. The advantages of digital media for accessibility are discussed, followed by sets of guidelines and a basic accessibility check that can be performed on existing documents.
Read full advice document...Basic Guide to Videoing Audiovisual Materials
This document is intended for users who wish to record teaching materials such as those used during a lecture. This includes both projected materials, materials shown on a television screen and printed materials. It covers everything the novice should need to know from the first step to the last.
Read full advice document...Burning audio CDs, video and slideshow DVDs - Mac OSX
Burning your photos or movie files to a disc sounds, on paper, like a relatively simple task, but can often turn out to be a confusing and time consuming one. Choosing the right file types and knowing which software to use is often never clear and instructions on the simplest method to create CDs and DVDs on the whole do not come pre-installed on a computer. With these things in mind, this document provides step-by-step guides and practical advice on how to create audio CDs and video DVDs using the simplest approaches on Macintosh machines (see also our guide for Windows).
Read full advice document...Burning audio CDs, video and slideshow DVDs - Windows
Burning your photos or movie files to a disc sounds, on paper, like a relatively simple task, but can often turn out to be a confusing and time consuming one. Choosing the right file types and knowing which software to use is often never clear and instructions on the simplest method to create CDs and DVDs on the whole do not come pre-installed on a computer. With these things in mind, this document provides step-by-step guides and practical advice on how to create audio CDs and video DVDs using the simplest approaches on Windows machines. (see also our guide for Mac OSX).
Read full advice document...Choosing a File Name
File naming is a vital first step for those beginning to digitise. This document examines planning and using an effective file naming system when managing digital files. This paper highlights the advantages of using the 8.3 convention and looks at some options when naming derivative, surrogate files.
Read full advice document...Copyright and Other Rights for Creating Time-based Media Resources
This advice document provides some basic information on rights issues associated with creating time-based digital media resources. By time-based we mean resources that change over time - including spoken audio, music, animation, and video - as opposed to still images or screen shots, which do not change over time. Rights issues include copyright, recording rights, moral rights and performance rights.
Read full advice document...Designing Learning Experiences
Once you scratch at the surface of producing learning materials, it quickly becomes apparent that there are many elements to their creation. An overarching theme outlined here is that of “designing the learner experience”. This introductory advice document examines the notion that building a resource is akin to the process of an architect designing a building where context is paramount.
Read full advice document...Free Online Screencasting Tools
A guide to free online services which enable you to use your internet browser to capture on-screen computer activity, along with input from peripherals like microphones and webcams, and which offer users the ability to download and/or share the resultant videos in a variety of ways and formats. This advice document will be of interest to those new to screencasting, who would like to try it out with simple tools which require no purchase or installation. Online screencast services will also interest experienced screencasters needing access to screencast tools 'in the field', and the quick publishing and sharing tools which accompany them.
Read full advice document...Introduction to Lenses
This document looks at the camera lens (stills or video) and how it contributes to the quality of the photographic image. It describes the component parts of the lens and how they contribute to the final image. The document should also help the reader to select a specific lens for a task.
Read full advice document...Light Sources for Still and Moving Images
The word photography means drawing with light, without light it is impossible to record a video or still image. So lighting whether in a classroom, office or dedicated photographic studio is an essential component in a photograph or video. The captured image is a record of the light that is emitted, reflected or absorbed by the subject. With a basic understanding of light and how it can be modified the photographer or filmmaker should be able to improve the appearance of their images. This document will look at commonly used light sources and how the user can get the most from them.
Read full advice document...Open Source and Free Software Directory
The following tables comprise a selective guide to various free and open source software tools for a variety of digital media applications.
Read full advice document...Overview of JISC Digital Media Materials for those involved in Business and Community Engagement
This guide provides an overview of the JISC Digital Media website, highlighting materials we think may be of particular use to HE/FE staff involved in business or community engagement (BCE).
Read full advice document...Preparing for an Interview
Aside from correctly addressing the technical concerns when conducting an interview, the success of a good interview also relies heavily on the interaction between the interviewer and the subject and the pre-production preparation undertaken. This document aims to provide some useful tips and thoughts to help you enhance your interviews and create a relaxed and productive conversational environment.
Read full advice document...Screencasting Workflow
An overview of all the elements involved in producing screencasts at different levels of complexity, and for a variety of educational purposes. We examine some technical tools and methods for screencast creation from the ground up, and for those already familiar with screencasting there are ideas and tips for improving quality and effectiveness.
Read full advice document...Stands and Supports for Still and Moving Images
One of the easiest ways to improve the quality of still or moving images is by using a support. Supports and stands can reduce or eliminate vibration or movement which otherwise would degrade the quality of the captured media. Supports come in all shapes and sizes: this document looks at a variety of support types including tripods, copy-stands, clamps and brackets as well as improvised solutions.
Read full advice document...The Video Enabled Digital SLR
Until very recently if you needed to shoot video you purchased a video camera and if you needed to shoot stills you bought a stills camera. However, over the last couple of years manufacturers have started to release stills SLR cameras that can also capture video. With many of the middle and higher range camera models now offering video capture we should look at this new feature and try to identify its strengths and weaknesses. This document is aimed at anyone who has or is about to purchase an SLR camera and needs to know if the video option is of use to them.
Read full advice document...Using Multimedia in a PDF
PDF files have long been used for their versatility and convenience, working well both on the web and in print. While predominantly text and image based, there is also the opportunity to use video and audio. This advice document outlines the considerations for using and embedding multimedia in PDFs.
Read full advice document...Vector Graphics Resources
The links listed here have been gathered to provide a useful collection of vector graphics resources.
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Training courses
- Audio Production: Recording Lectures, Seminars, Interviews and Podcasts
- Digital Photography - Getting Started with your SLR
- Digital Photography - Taking Control of your SLR
- Essential Photoshop Skills
- Image Optimisation for Print and Web
- Video Production 1: Lectures and Interviews 2-day course 25 April 2012
