MODULE_FORENSIC-PHOTOGRAPHY

Definition of Photography

  • Photography: The art or process of producing images of objects through the action of light on sensitized surfaces, utilizing an image-forming device known as a camera.

    • Involves a chemical process for image formation.

Forensic Photography

  • Forensic Photography: Application of photography within law enforcement for documentation of evidence and crime scenes.

    • Prepares photographs for court presentation.

    • Associated with Scene of Crime Operation (SOCO) teams.

Macro Photography

  • Macro Photography: The art or process of photographing objects at a magnification ratio greater than 1:1, up to 9 times.

Micro Photography

  • Micro Photography: Involves photographing minute objects using a microscope, enlarging them at a magnification of at least 10 times.

Infrared Photography

  • Infrared Photography: The process of recording images of unseen objects using infrared light.

Ultraviolet Photography

  • Ultraviolet Photography: Captures images of unseen objects using ultraviolet rays and filters.

Basic Camera Handling Techniques

  1. Camera Grip: Hold the camera with the right hand, using the index finger for the shutter release button and thumb beneath the film advance lever.

  2. Support: The heel of the camera should rest in the palm of the left hand.

  3. Posture: Maintain correct body positioning while photographing for stability.

Documentation Methods at Crime Scenes

Three Methods:

  • Note Taking: Record observations and specifics about the scene.

  • Photography: Use photographs to document crime scenes and evidence.

  • Sketching: Complement photographs with sketches to provide additional context.

Uses of Photographs in Investigations

  1. Identification: Recognizing individuals or objects.

  2. Preservation: Keeping a record of the crime scene.

  3. Description/Reconstruction: Aiding in visualizing the crime.

  4. Permanent Record: Providing lasting evidence for future reference.

Importance of Crime Scene Photography

  • Permanent Record of the scene.

  • Significance in understanding parts of the crime scene.

  • Aids in reconstructing the events of the crime.

Crime Scene Photography Procedures

  1. Overall/General View: Capture how the scene appeared upon first entrance.

  2. Medium View: Show the correlation of items to their surroundings from a distance of 10-15 feet.

  3. Close-up View: Focus on the details of specific subjects from 5 feet or less.

  4. Extreme Close-up View: Detail extent of damage or key evidence.

General Photography Methods

  1. Overlapping Method: Circular series of photographs slightly overlapping to show the entire scene.

  2. Progressive Method: Moving closer to evidence, photographing each position incrementally.

Mug Shot Photography

  • Mug Shot Photography: Taking full-length and side-view photographs of suspects.

Crime Scene Sketching

  • Method of documenting the crime scene through sketches, complementing photographs for clarity.

Computerized Facial Composite

  • Facial Composite: Graphical representation of an eyewitness's memory, can be hand-drawn or generated via computer.

    • Utilizes features from databases like Filipino, Thai, and Caucasian attributes.

Importance of Accuracy in Facial Composites

  • Only victims or witnesses who recall details of the suspect can assure accuracy.

  • Immediate requests for compositions enhance chances of success in identification.

Evidence Handling in Autopsies

  • Photograph the body in each clothing state, ensuring identification marks are documented during autopsy processes.

Conclusion

  • Electronic/digital imaging represents an evolution in photography and is recognized in professional and legal contexts.

    • Captured images serve as lasting documentation of events, providing critical evidence in legal settings.

    • Photography is noted for its ability to convey narratives visually, offering a crucial element in law enforcement documentation.