Jarlshof December Site Visit

This photo taken by Kieran Duncan © 2011 shows me taking pole aerial photography sequences at Jarlshof near Sumburgh Head, Shetland. Although we were only on the island for three days the weather was kind and allowed for extensive photography to hopefully use for photogrammetry later. The close proximity of Sumburgh airport to Jarlshof restricts kite flying although my hope is that pole aerial photography will be suitable for capturing most of the site.



The winter conditions were visually pleasing in many ways with a dusting of snow bringing out the topography of the Norse part of the settlement (below, right). The benefits of an elevated view are immediately obvious at this site where features such as the curve of the broch wall (below, left), obscured by later structures and erosion, are difficult to make out on the ground.



A very satisfying first visit to the site which has left me with around 13,000 frames to work with towards digital reconstruction. Enough to keep me busy until my next visit!

Best wishes for the winter solstice and 2012!