Other excavations use hand-held computers on site, which is impractical in our dusty, sandy conditions. All of these things are important for recording all available evidence. These records are later referred to in the lab when objects and pottery are being processed. Eventually, the hand-written records are recorded in a computer database that allows the excavation team to sort through the evidence from square to square, day to day, or in any other way that may seem useful to the team. Photography is another important means of recording evidence.
Most excavations have at least one full-time photographer.
Our photographer works with several cameras each day. Photographs are taken daily in areas as a visual record of progress. The camera might catch what the archaeologist has forgotten. The photographer has his or her notebook containing special information and certain additional information that might be necessary for people who are viewing the picture. Meter sticks, directional information and sometimes date and location are included in field photographs.