Aerial photography

Definition

Aerial photography is the process of taking photographs from an elevated position, typically from an aircraft or drone, to capture images of the Earth's surface. This technique is widely used in archaeology to document and analyze archaeological sites and landscapes, offering a unique perspective that can reveal patterns and features not easily visible from the ground.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aerial photography can help identify site boundaries, landscape features, and even subtle earthworks that are not visible at ground level.
2. The use of aerial photography in archaeology has greatly increased since the advent of drones, which provide high-resolution images at lower costs compared to traditional aircraft.
3. Images captured through aerial photography can be analyzed using various software tools to create detailed maps and models of archaeological sites.
4. Aerial photographs can reveal changes in vegetation that may indicate the presence of buried structures or ancient pathways.
5. This method allows archaeologists to survey large areas quickly, making it easier to prioritize sites for further investigation.

Review Questions

• How does aerial photography enhance the understanding of archaeological sites compared to traditional ground-level surveying methods?
  • Aerial photography enhances the understanding of archaeological sites by providing a broader perspective that reveals features such as site layouts, patterns in vegetation, and topographical changes. This method allows archaeologists to see relationships between different sites over large areas that would be difficult to discern from ground-level surveys. It helps identify potential areas for excavation and informs research strategies by highlighting features that may warrant further investigation.
• In what ways can aerial photography be integrated with remote sensing technologies to improve archaeological research?
  • Aerial photography can be integrated with remote sensing technologies by using satellite imagery alongside drone-captured photos to create comprehensive datasets. This combination allows for a multi-layered analysis of landscapes where remote sensing provides contextual data like soil moisture or vegetation indices, while aerial photography offers detailed visual documentation of surface features. Together, these technologies enhance the ability to interpret archaeological landscapes and make informed decisions about site management and preservation.
• Evaluate the impact of advancements in aerial photography technology on modern archaeological practices and site discovery.
  • Advancements in aerial photography technology, particularly the introduction of drones and high-resolution cameras, have significantly transformed modern archaeological practices. These innovations have made it easier and more cost-effective to conduct large-scale surveys and document sites with remarkable detail. Consequently, this has led to more efficient site discovery as archaeologists can quickly assess areas for potential excavation. Additionally, improved imaging techniques allow for enhanced analyses of spatial relationships and landscape changes over time, ultimately enriching our understanding of past human activities.

Related terms

Remote sensing: The acquisition of information about an object or area from a distance, often through satellite or aerial imagery, enabling analysis of land use, vegetation, and topography.

Geophysical prospection: A non-invasive technique that uses physical measurements to detect and map subsurface archaeological features without excavation.

Photogrammetry: The art and science of making measurements from photographs, often used to create maps or 3D models of terrain and structures.