Multispectral¹ photography

Multispectral photography allows us to study works of art under different wavelengths of light. These wavelengths range from long-wave ultraviolet light (mainly UVA from 315-400 nm) to infrared light (mainly IR from 700-1100 nm). Different wavelengths of light might reveal information which would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye.

In the following pages you will find a small introduction on the photographic/imaging techniques you, as an Art Conservator, can use. These include imaging under Visible Light, Raking Light, UV Fluorescence, Infrared etc. Please note that this guide by no means provides an exhaustive reference to each method and that you are strongly recommended to read further. A list of recommended reading is provided at the end of this guide.

¹ The term "multispectral" in this context is being used loosely to refer to different wavelengths of light that we use to capture images. It should not be confused with multispectral imaging.