Online Workshop on Photogrammetry for South Asian Students

The workshop comprised 24 hours of instruction delivered over four Saturdays by Imran Khan, with six hours of lectures each week. The first half introduced participants to photogrammetry techniques for recording built heritage and artifacts, while the second half focused on processing the captured data into digital outputs, such as 3D models, using Reality Capture software. Students engaged in hands-on assignments, learning to document cultural heritage through photography and data processing. By the end of the workshop, participants were able to create detailed 3D models and orthophotos, earning certificates to recognise their achievements.

This initiative aims to empower the next generation of archaeologists, architects, and heritage conservationists with critical skills in digital documentation, fostering the preservation of South Asia’s rich cultural heritage.

Amber Shahid Mumtaz (Aga Khan Trust for Culture, Pakistan) recording the Postern Gate of Lahore Fort, Lahore

Postern Gate, the Postern Barracks, and part of the Fortification Wall, Lahore Fort, Lahore, Pakistan

Kapileshwara Temple, 9th – 10th Century CE, Manne, Karnataka, India

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Factum Foundation for providing me with the opportunity to expand my knowledge through this workshop, which I am eager to incorporate into my post-Ph.D. projects with museums.”
Somya Malik, University of Delhi

Sculpture in the garden of National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, India

Pictish Class III, 9th Century, National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh, UK

Farsana KT (Central University of Karnataka) recording the Hero Stone/Veeragallu in Kalaburagi, Karnataka

“The workshop on Photogrammetry and 3D Documentation, organized by Factum Foundation broadened my perspective in understanding of heritage conservation. With zero prior knowledge, I was skillfully moulded into a proficient expert. The trainers’ dedicated guidance, personalised attention, tailored feedback, and unwavering support ensured I grasped every intricacy. This workshop perfected my skills in capturing and preserving cultural heritage through photogrammetry and 3D documentation. Thanks Factum Foundation, for your dedication to knowledge sharing and exceptional workshop experiences.”

Farsana KT, Central University of Karnataka

 

Hero Stone/Veeragallu, 11-12 century CE, Kalaburagi, Karnataka India

Sachith Isuranga Vithanage (University of Moratuwa) recording Barandiya Kovil in Avissawella

Barandiya Kovil, 16th Century, Avissawella, Sri Lanka

“The Photogrammetry in Heritage Documentation workshop by the Factum Foundation was a truly transformative experience for me. It provided in-depth knowledge of how this advanced technique can be applied to document heritage structures. The workshop was structured and delivered in a clear, well-organized manner, with Imran Khan offering hands-on guidance to each participant. His openness in sharing knowledge allowed us to create detailed models, fostering creativity and technical skills. I am eager to use what I’ve learned to document heritage structures in Sri Lanka and promote awareness of the importance of digital preservation. I’m grateful to the Factum Foundation for this invaluable opportunity.”

Sachith Isuranga Vithanage, University of Moratuwa

Daman Dogra (Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee) recording St. John’s Church in Roorkee

St. John’s Church, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India

“This workshop was an opportunity to rethink how we approach cultural heritage. With a focus on hands-on learning and technical expertise, it highlighted how documenting the past can actively shape future preservation efforts. Through photogrammetry, we engaged directly with history, capturing intricate details and ensuring its accessibility for generations to come. Working alongside a diverse group of participants, we explored new methods that bring precision to our work while fostering global collaboration in heritage conservation.

The experience offered a fresh perspective on how digital tools allow us to transcend physical barriers. By learning to create high-resolution scans and detailed 3D models, we opened new pathways for safeguarding and sharing heritage on a global scale. This workshop broadened my understanding and will deeply influence my ongoing work, ensuring that cultural stories continue to inspire and connect future generations.”
Daman Dogra, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee

Poorvaa Malhotra (Banaras Hindu University) recording a 2nd-century BC Yaksha sculpture attributed to Kanhadasa in the National Museum, New Delhi

Yaksha, 2nd Century BCE, attributed to Kanhadasa, National Museum, New Delhi, India

“Attending this workshop was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me. […] Initially, I found it difficult to understand the concept of Photogrammetry but today when I am actually applying it, it makes me feel happy and contented. I am going to learn further and try experimenting with various objects. Talking about archaeology, photogrammetry is a developing field which has a great scope. And knowing skills like this will help me to widen my work opportunities in the sector.”
Poorvaa Malhotra, Banaras Hindu University