Last year the only remaining manufacturer of colour reversal (slide) film ceased production of its ISO400 film, bringing into question the sustainability of using photographic film in archaeology. Since then Wessex Archaeology has been investigating the possibility of a digital only photographic work flow. Whilst there is certainly resistance to any such change amongst some stakeholders Wessex Archaeology believes that it is the only long term response to wider developments in photography.
This issue has already been discussed with a number of bodies including the IfA, and now WA would like to try and engage a larger audience in the debate so that as an industry we can come to a lasting solution to the growing shortage of suitable film. As part of this process we are publishing our draft digital only photographic policy for all interested parties to see. Please let us know your views on our policy, and this issue in general, in the comments section.