Police Photography Study Guide
Introduction
Police photography is the scientific and systematic process of recording crime scenes, evidence, victims, suspects, a nd
related events through photographs. It provides an accurate visual record that assists investigators, prosecutors, and
courts in understanding the facts of a case. Proper police photography preserves evidence that may change or disappear
over time.
Objectives of Police Photography
• Preserve the original condition of the crime scene.
• Document physical evidence accurately.
• Assist investigators in crime reconstruction.
• Provide evidence for court proceedings.
• Support identification of suspects, victims, and property.
Importance of Police Photography
• Creates a permanent visual record.
• Helps refresh witnesses' and investigators' memories.
• Documents evidence before it is collected.
• Allows experts to analyze crime scenes later.
• Strengthens the presentation of evidence in court.
Principles of Police Photography
1. Accuracy – Images must represent the actual scene.
2. Completeness – Photograph the entire scene and every important detail.
3. Objectivity – Avoid altering or manipulating photographs.
4. Continuity – Follow a logical sequence.
5. Preservation – Protect original image files and maintain the chain of custody.
Types of Police Photography
1. Crime Scene Photography
Documents the entire crime scene before evidence is disturbed.
, 2. Evidence Photography
Captures physical evidence such as weapons, fingerprints, bloodstains, and documents.
3. Surveillance Photography
Records criminal activities through CCTV, hidden cameras, or observation.
4. Identification Photography
Includes mugshots and photographs used for suspect identification.
5. Accident Photography
Documents traffic accidents, injuries, and vehicle damage.
6. Autopsy Photography
Records injuries and medical findings during postmortem examinations.
Types of Crime Scene Photographs
Overall Photographs
• Show the entire crime scene.
• Establish the location.
• Taken before entering or moving evidence.
Mid-Range Photographs
• Show the relationship between evidence and the surrounding area.
Close-Up Photographs
• Capture detailed views of evidence.
• Taken with and without a measurement scale.
Sequence of Crime Scene Photography
1. Photograph the approach to the scene.
2. Take exterior photographs.
Introduction
Police photography is the scientific and systematic process of recording crime scenes, evidence, victims, suspects, a nd
related events through photographs. It provides an accurate visual record that assists investigators, prosecutors, and
courts in understanding the facts of a case. Proper police photography preserves evidence that may change or disappear
over time.
Objectives of Police Photography
• Preserve the original condition of the crime scene.
• Document physical evidence accurately.
• Assist investigators in crime reconstruction.
• Provide evidence for court proceedings.
• Support identification of suspects, victims, and property.
Importance of Police Photography
• Creates a permanent visual record.
• Helps refresh witnesses' and investigators' memories.
• Documents evidence before it is collected.
• Allows experts to analyze crime scenes later.
• Strengthens the presentation of evidence in court.
Principles of Police Photography
1. Accuracy – Images must represent the actual scene.
2. Completeness – Photograph the entire scene and every important detail.
3. Objectivity – Avoid altering or manipulating photographs.
4. Continuity – Follow a logical sequence.
5. Preservation – Protect original image files and maintain the chain of custody.
Types of Police Photography
1. Crime Scene Photography
Documents the entire crime scene before evidence is disturbed.
, 2. Evidence Photography
Captures physical evidence such as weapons, fingerprints, bloodstains, and documents.
3. Surveillance Photography
Records criminal activities through CCTV, hidden cameras, or observation.
4. Identification Photography
Includes mugshots and photographs used for suspect identification.
5. Accident Photography
Documents traffic accidents, injuries, and vehicle damage.
6. Autopsy Photography
Records injuries and medical findings during postmortem examinations.
Types of Crime Scene Photographs
Overall Photographs
• Show the entire crime scene.
• Establish the location.
• Taken before entering or moving evidence.
Mid-Range Photographs
• Show the relationship between evidence and the surrounding area.
Close-Up Photographs
• Capture detailed views of evidence.
• Taken with and without a measurement scale.
Sequence of Crime Scene Photography
1. Photograph the approach to the scene.
2. Take exterior photographs.
