Photography plays a central role in the documentation and study of vascular flora in the Osogovo Mountains. High-resolution photography supports:
– Accurate identification based on visible morphological traits
– Verification of field records
– Monitoring of seasonal and developmental stages (flowering, fruiting, etc.)
– Visual comparison of taxa, including hybrids and morphological variants
– Transparency in documentation for each taxon profile
In situ photography
Each plant is photographed in situ, capturing key morphological characteristics and ecological context. These visual records are not only aesthetic but serve as essential tools in the process of identification, verification, and public sharing of botanical knowledge.
Ex situ photography
Aside from the in situ photographs of the plants in field conditions, if needed for taxonomic determination, additional ex-situ scaled photographs are mage. This includes general habit of the plant and different parts important for taxonomic determination. Scaling is done with scale in cm/mm.
Microscopic photos
In instances where magnification of certain structures are needed for correct identification, such as indumentum of different plant parts, cross-section of leaves, magnification of certain elements of flowers, spikelets and florets of Poaceae and other cases, the plants are observed under microscope, under x10 magnification. Pictures of these important traits are also taken, scaled and provided along with the in situ field photographs and ex situ scaled images.
Data storage
All pictures are stored online. As of 2025, the site’s Media Library hosts over 70,000 photos of over 1,300 plant taxa.
Technical notes
Photos are usually taken taken in 16:9 aspect ration. Camera photo resolutions are given below.
| Year | Aspect ratio | Max resolution | Standard resolution |
| 2025 | 16 : 9 | 8160 × 6120 px | 4080 × 2296 px |
| 2023 – 2024 | 16 : 9 | 9248 x 5204 px | 4624 x 2604 px |
| 2022 – 2021 | 16:9 | 4608 × 2592 px | 2560 × 1440 px |