Photographic documentation within the Institute of Paranormal Analytical Sciences serves as a factual, unaltered visual record of field conditions, site characteristics, and environmental context. All images are captured and preserved with strict adherence to accuracy, neutrality, and archival integrity.
1. Fidelity to Original Conditions
Photographs must reflect the site exactly as it appeared at the time of documentation. No filters, enhancements, color adjustments, or digital alterations are permitted.
2. Sequential Capture
Images are taken in the order the site is encountered and explored. This sequence preserves spatial logic, environmental flow, and chronological integrity.
3. Environmental Context
Each photograph should capture relevant environmental conditions when applicable: light, weather, spatial layout, sound‑related structures, and natural or built features. Images support — but do not dramatize — environmental context.
4. Angle and Position Transparency
Photographs must be taken from stable, clearly identifiable positions. Captions or notes identify:
vantage point
orientation
distance
direction of view
This ensures repeatability and clarity for future researchers.
5. Non‑Speculative Framing
Images document what is present, not what is assumed or anticipated. No photograph is taken with the intent to “capture phenomena.” The purpose is recordkeeping, not confirmation.
6. Cultural and Historical Respect
Photographic documentation honors the cultural significance and historical trajectory of each site. Images avoid intrusive, sensational, or exploitative framing.
7. Distinction Between Record and Interpretation
Photographs stand as raw documentation. Any interpretive notes — when appropriate — are recorded separately and clearly labeled.
8. Integrity of the Archive
All photographs are stored in their original file format and resolution. Metadata (date, time, location when applicable) is preserved and never overwritten.
9. Caption Standards
Each photograph includes a concise caption identifying:
site name
location within the site
environmental conditions
sequence number
vantage point or angle
Captions remain descriptive, not interpretive.
10. Integration Into the Compendium
Photographs are cataloged according to the Compendium’s classification system. Images support historical, cultural, environmental, and experiential entries without replacing written documentation.
Publicly displayed images may be resized, cropped for platform compatibility, or watermarked. Original, unaltered files are preserved separately as part of the Institute’s archival record.
© 2026 Institute of Paranormal Analytical Sciences
