Essential Cemetery Photos for Genealogy Research

Cemeteries are treasure troves of information for genealogists. Tombstones, burial records, and other markers can provide valuable clues about our ancestors’ lives, including their names, dates of birth and death, family relationships, and even their occupations. However, it can be challenging to collect all of this information in person, especially if the cemetery is far away or difficult to access. That’s where cemetery photography comes in.

Taking clear and informative photos of cemetery markers is essential for genealogy research. These photos can help you:

• Document the information on the stone: Photos can capture details that may be difficult to read in person, such as faded inscriptions or intricate carvings.
• Preserve the memory of your ancestors: Cemetery photos can serve as a visual record of your family’s history and legacy.
• Share your research with others: Photos can be shared with family members, researchers, and online genealogy communities.

Types of Cemetery Photos for Genealogy

When taking photos in a cemetery, focus on capturing images that will be most helpful for your research. Here are some essential types of cemetery photos:

1. Full-Body Shots of the Marker

Start by taking a full-body shot of the entire marker, including the base and any surrounding features. This provides context and helps you identify the marker in a larger cemetery.

2. Close-Up Shots of Inscriptions

Take close-up photos of all inscriptions on the marker, including the name, dates, and any other details. Make sure the inscription is clear and readable in the photo. Use a flash if necessary to illuminate the inscription. If the stone is worn or damaged, take multiple photos from different angles to capture all the details.

3. Photos of Additional Features

If the marker includes additional features, such as symbols, emblems, or decorations, take photos of these as well. These details can provide clues about the deceased’s life, beliefs, and social status.

4. Photos of the Marker’s Surroundings

Take photos of the marker’s surroundings, including the surrounding landscape, other markers in the vicinity, and any notable features. This information can be helpful for identifying the marker’s location and understanding the cemetery’s layout.

5. Photos of the Marker’s Condition

If the marker is damaged or weathered, take photos of the damage to document its condition. This information can be useful for identifying the marker in the future and for researching its history.

Tips for Taking Effective Cemetery Photos

Here are some tips for taking effective cemetery photos for genealogy research:

• Use a good camera: A digital camera with a zoom lens is ideal for capturing clear and detailed photos. If you’re using a smartphone camera, make sure it has a high-resolution sensor and a good zoom feature.
• Use natural light: Natural light is generally best for cemetery photography. Avoid taking photos in direct sunlight, as this can create harsh shadows and glare. Cloudy days are ideal for taking photos.
• Clean the marker: Before taking photos, gently clean the marker with a soft cloth to remove dirt and debris. This will help to improve the clarity of the inscriptions.
• Use a tripod: A tripod will help you keep the camera steady and prevent blurry photos. If you don’t have a tripod, try to find a stable surface to rest the camera on.
• Take multiple photos: Take multiple photos from different angles and distances to ensure that you capture all the details of the marker.
• Use a flash: Use a flash if necessary to illuminate the inscription, especially if it’s in a shaded area. However, be careful not to use the flash too close to the marker, as this can cause glare.
• Check your photos: Always check your photos on the camera screen to make sure they are clear and well-focused. If they are not, retake the photos.

Organizing Your Cemetery Photos

Once you’ve taken your photos, it’s important to organize them properly. Here are some tips for organizing your cemetery photos:

• Create a file system: Create a file system for your cemetery photos that is easy to navigate and search. You can organize your photos by cemetery, by family, or by date.
• Use descriptive file names: Use descriptive file names for your photos, such as the cemetery name, the marker’s inscription, and the date the photo was taken.
• Back up your photos: Back up your cemetery photos to an external hard drive or cloud storage service to protect them from loss or damage.

By taking clear and informative photos, you can preserve the memories of your ancestors and create a valuable resource for your genealogy research. Happy photographing!