Ed,
 
Regarding cataloging photographs, its depends on the purpose of the collection.
Many photograph collections are part of a larger archival collection including
papers and other material.  In this case the same standards apply as to text-
based collections.  Here, the photographs and other visual material have
traditionally been weeded from archival collections and handled separately.
If there is enough material centered on an indvidual (e.g. Oliver Wendell
Holmes) or a particular institution (the Inns of Court, London) I will create
a new collection and finding aid/inventory to document it.  Most often, however,
new items are integrated into already existing collections (portraits, Harvard
Law School Buildings, U.S. Supreme Court, etc.).  I am often at odds with both
my archival and museum colleagues.  Many archivists feel that photographic
and other visual material should remain with the papers and be treated as part
of that collection.  Many of the collections in my care are grouped according
to subject and are often mixed media (paintings, objects, photographs, prints,
drawings) which confuse my museum colleagues who are used to material being
divided by genre/medium.
 
One book I find useful in cataloging and which is the standard for many people
is:
 
     "Graphic materials: rules for describing original items
 and
     historical collections."  Compiled by Elisabeth W. Betz (Washington,
     D.C.: Library of Congress, 1982).
 
I have many other reference sources I use, so feel free to contact me if
you would like more.
 
I hope this helps.
 
With every good wish,
 
Steven
 
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Steven R. Smith
Art Collection                                      Tel: (617)495-3150
Harvard Law School                                  FAX: (617)495-4449
Cambridge, MA  02138                  E-mail: [log in to unmask]
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