Found Standards

Abstract

Traditionally, photographic tests and calibration charts confirm that images match the scene in which they are captured. This ensures that the camera and lenses are performing to their maximum ability and that images and their inherent colours accurately represent the location and photographer's intent.

Many of these charts have expiration dates stamped into them, and it has become general practice to replace them regularly because the reference tiles may change due to age and environmental factors.

Through collecting and documenting so-called “retired” and obsolete charts, I wonder how perceptions and understandings of photography have changed throughout the technological development of the medium. What does “photo-accurate” mean – and is it still relevant? Between the modern ubiquity of (digital) photography, social media ‘image enhancement’, and especially AI-generated content, these relics question how and if the photographic medium can be trusted in the same ways it was once used for technical and scientific documentation.