Slow-motion videography and recording experimental archaeology

Abstract

In this paper, I discuss digital slow motion videography as a method of recording rapidly occurring phenomena that are similar to past dynamic processes. Slow motion videography has already seen use in documenting archaeological experiments. In the past, this required expensive equipment and film. Only very recently has this type of imaging become possible with consumer grade digital cameras therefore allowing it to be utilized by archaeologists much more often, for example to improve our understanding of stone tool making gestures. Until recently, slow motion recordings were primarily used to demonstrate or facilitate an adequate, reflective perception of experiment. However, today, digital media enables more varied footage- based research through multiple recordings, video enhancement and integration of data into computer databases and sharing and learning networks.