Crime Scene Photography

Class:
Forensics Science Class

Introduction:
Before anything else happens after a crime scene has been secured investigators sketch the scene while also taking numerous photographs.
Generally the scene is roughly sketched out using two points of reference. Initially the sketch is rough and focuses on the details that seem pertinent to the crime itself. It is not meant to be “art” but plays close attention to the detail. Afterwards a more finished sketch is made using a detailed floor plan of the scene. The presence of evidence can be documented in the sketch but need not be drawn as the appearance of these items can be documented using photographs.

There are several reasons to document the crime scene using photography as well:
1. Photos can give a more accurate picture of certain types of evidence such as blood splatter, footprints and other biological evidence that cannot be removed from the scene. This gives investigators future reference to investigate “unseen” evidence at the scene at a later time.
2. Photos show context and very often will lead investigators to find evidence not noticed by the initial investigation.
3. It is important that those taking the photos place objects of known dimensions close to the evidence so the scale of the object viewed can be judged
4. Since photography can and is such a valuable tool it is important that investigators have a very good working knowledge of the workings of their camera.

Procedure:
Before we can use the above information we must understand the basics of how to use the basic features of the camera. Changing settings on the camera can dramatically change the photographs in terms of light depth and motion. Since most crime scenes are inanimate shutter speed is a little less important.
Define the following in your notes:
Shutter
Shutter speed
Aperture
Depth of field
F/number
F/stops

Many digital cameras have specific settings built into the camera. It is important to learn how each of these settings changes the appearance of your photo. These settings can be used to isolate, magnify and pronounce certain details of the crime scene. Examiners will also keep a very comprehensive log book of the pictures they take and at what settings for future reference.

Activity:
With a partner and your log book take a number of photos both indoors and outdoors of various objects in Macro Portrait and Landscape modes. How does this change the appearance of your subject? Record these observations in your lab book.

Assessment:
Your team will be responsible for investigating a 'crime scene' located in or around the school building. You will analyze the 'crime scene' using sketch and photo techniques learned from class. Once the scene has been analyzed and evidence collected you will develop a report and present it to the Forensics Class.