To ensure that you always have all the necessary information to properly cite your sources, identify copyright holders, or request a high-resolution reproduction of a document you are particularly interested in, here are some best practices.
Photograph the archival identifiers (“cote”) found on boxes, binders, tubes and sleeves before photographing the documents they contain. Be sure to also photograph any information that may appear on subfolders, sleeves or envelopes.
Record all archival information or references (Archives de la construction moderne – EPFL. Collection name. Archival identifier. Folder or document title, dates) related to the documents or files of interest.
Record all bibliographic references (author, article title, publication title, publisher, place, dates…) from press clippings, offprints, or book and journal articles.
Photograph the title block of the drawing, if present. This is a rectangle usually located in a corner of the document that contains all relevant identification details, as well as key contextual information for your research (and for any potential HD reproduction request).
Photograph the back of photographic prints. The back (verso) often contains important information that can help identify the photographer. Remember that, in general, only the author or their heirs – up to 70 years after their death – hold the copyright, and that any public use of the document requires their authorization.