This case study is about difficulties encountered during research involving a collection of historical photographs. It reflects on problems that can face visual researchers when trying to access original sources in archives or collections. It further reflects on the confrontation of old and new technologies. These problems are often defined by a lack of knowledge of important technological developments and their possibilities. The case study further highlights the sometimes problematic status of visual material in archives and their sometimes ignored potential value as primary archival sources in research.

About the author

Tyrone Martinsson comes from an art background specialising in printmaking and photography. Since 1993 his work and teaching has concerned the theory and practice of digital imaging and photography. He completed an MA in Media, Culture and Technology in 1998 at the University of Luton and a PhD in Visual Studies in 2003 at the University of Westminster, London. He is currently working in Hypermedia Studies at the University of Skovde in Sweden.