Photographing objects from scientific collections is often challenging. Some objects are extremely small, while others are large and bulky, ranging from light microscope slides to wall-sized reliefs. Additionally, identifying the decisive aspect of a research object often requires specialist knowledge. Sometimes, only a synopsis of several perspectives can make the object comprehensible.
The Digital Network for Collections commissioned an object photographer to explore how to create the most informative images possible. Two collections from TU Berlin were acquired as additional project partners: a collection of soil profiles and a collection of model ship propellers.
The propellers were part of a series of experiments carried out with model ships in a flow channel. These propellers were used in the field of experimental ship and marine technology to study the most efficient possible maritime propulsion systems. The facility, which has existed since 1903, is itself a highly interesting object from technical, historical, architectural, and scientific perspectives. Since 1995, it has been part of the Technical University of Berlin as a research institute for hydraulic engineering and shipbuilding (VWS).
Of the approximately 300 propellers, ten were selected to illustrate the full range of design approaches. Each object was photographed from three perspectives. These images provide an overview of the objects' central characteristics, such as the number of blades, diameter, pitch, inclination, and skew.
These photographs can also be used to raise awareness of lesser-known collections and objects.
