Arguably the most important part of a camera is the lens. Before continuing with this method, we suggest the reader understand what type of lenses exist and which one works best for its use. In this case, we suggest using a macro lens. Find below definitions and descriptions of Macro Lens and commonly used standard zoom lens:
Macro Lens: A Macro Lens is a type of lens that allows very close up shots of the subject. In many cases, it requires close proximity to the subject being photographed but in return, it offers high levels of detail, which are difficult to be acquired with regular lens. This in turn, makes macro lens ideally suited for small object and artefacts photography.
Standard Zoom Lens: Standard Zoom Lens is a highly variable type of lens, allowing for the capture of landscapes, people, buildings and small objects and artefacts. Although it may not perform as well as a macro lens, its flexibility makes it an ideal lens for many archaeology professionals, projects and institutions, hence, one of the most commonly available lens types.
Ultimately, the choice of a lens should be reflected against the questions and needs of the archaeologist/photographer. If highly detailed close-up photographs are required, a Macro Lens is recommended, however, if illustrative photographs are required, a Standard Zoom Lens is more than capable to achieve good and usable photographs.