Crime Scene Photography Techniques

Crime Scene Photography Objectives and Purpose

  • Presenter: ASP Rohasmawati Binti Abd Rahman, Crime Scene Investigation Unit (D10), Makmal Forensik PDRM.
  • Core Objectives:     * Understand the significance of crime scene photography.     * Distinguish between long-range, medium-range, and close-up photography.     * Recognize the necessity of using scales in photographs.     * Master best practices for effective crime scene documentation.
  • Primary Purpose:     * To refresh the memories of the Investigating Officer and witnesses.     * To provide an accurate explanation of the crime scene and events to the court during trial proceedings.

Documentation and Investigation Papers

  • Folio ‘D’: Photographs are a mandatory part of the investigation paper (Kertas Siasatan) and are filed in Folio ‘D’.
  • Labeling: Photos must be pasted on paper and marked with alphabetical letters (e.g., ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’).
  • Description: A dedicated folio page must be used to provide detailed descriptions for each photograph.

General Photography Techniques at the Scene

  • Coverage: Photos should capture the surroundings and all relevant angles.
  • Perspective: All photographs must be taken at eye level.
  • Overlapping Technique: Use overlapping photos to ensure continuity and prevent gaps in the scene's visual narrative.
  • Equipment: Wide-angle lenses are recommended to provide a comprehensive overall picture.
  • Color Photography: Must be used to accurately depict blood, injuries, and bruising on a victim’s body.

The Four Basic Ranges of Photography

  • Overall/Long Range: Captures the entire scene and its environment.
  • Medium Range: Focuses on specific areas of interest within the scene.
  • Close-up: Provides detail of specific items or evidence.
  • Close-up with Scale: Utilizes a ruler or scale placed next to the evidence to indicate relative size; the camera aperture must be at a 90∘90^{\circ} angle relative to the ground.

Capturing Physical Evidence

  • Minimum Requirement: At least 3 photographs must be taken for every piece of physical evidence (Long, Medium, and Close-up).
  • Types of Evidence to Document:     * Entry and exit points used by perpetrators.     * Footprints, shoe prints, and tire marks.     * Fingerprints and bloodstains.     * Weapons and tool marks.     * Injuries and self-defense wounds on victims.
  • Marking Evidence: Items must be labeled with a board or paper stating the police station, report number, and date. Use arrows to pinpoint specific traces like blood, semen, or fingerprints.

Administrative Actions and Responsibilities

  • Investigating Officer (IO) Actions:     * Direct the photographer on which specific photos are required.     * Record the date, time, photographer’s name, and total number of photos taken in the Investigation Diary.
  • Photographer Actions:     * Enter details in a pocketbook including instructions received, date/time, and the total count of photographs taken.
  • Evidence Collection: For critical physical evidence, photographs must be taken during the actual process of collection and removal from the scene.

Questions & Discussion

  • Question: Are there any questions? (Slide 140: SOALAN ??)
  • Response: No specific questions or responses were recorded in the transcript text.