Capturing objects in 2.5D with RTI (intermediate level)

The AHRC-funded Hot Source! project is organising an online workshop as part of its training activities on the 21st of February 2024, from 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm. 

Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) is an imaging technique used in the field of Digital Humanities to capture and analyse the surface features of objects, especially those with complex details, textures, or inscriptions. RTI is particularly valuable for examining and documenting objects with relief or fine surface details that are challenging to capture using traditional photography. The outcome is an interactive 2.5D image, enabling the examination of the surface, like inscriptions, and the identification of hidden or faded details. 

This workshop is designed for researchers who are working on physical objects with important textured surfaces (e.g. coins, manuscripts, small artefacts) and are interested in exploring new techniques for examining and documenting those objects.

During the workshop, the participants will learn about the basic operating principles of the method to create an RTI image. The workshop is structured to demonstrate potential applications of the RTI method using readily accessible tools, rather than relying on highly specialised equipment.

Thus, for practicing the RTI method, the participants need to have available similar tools to the below: 

• digital camera/smartphone/tablet 

• Tripod for camera or smartphone/ gooseneck holder for smartphone or tablet 

• Torch 

• Shiny ball 

• String  

  
  

For more details regarding the equipment needed, please contact digitalhumanities@exeter.ac.uk. 

Following this workshop, participants can register for a 1:1 ‘Practical Surgery’ session on the 28^th of February.  

This is an intermediate level workshop. Prior knowledge of basic elements of digital photography is required. For those new to photography, the Introduction to digital photography and digitisation (beginner level) is recommended. If additional training is needed on 3D capture, the 3D capturing of objects with photogrammetry (intermediate level) workshop is recommended. 

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/workshop-capturing-objects-in-25d-with-rti-tickets-773649816427