Photography Flashcards
What is the role of John Aitkenhead in the crime scene investigation?
Retired OPP forensic Identification Sergeant who testified about the evidence found at the Aino Beach Road home
He presented a series of photographs taken of the scene.
What items were seized and photographed from the Aino Beach Road home?
Blue jeans, a white T-shirt, a right-foot work boot, and a right-foot black shoe with reddish staining
The reddish staining was noted during the testimony.
Define scene photos in the context of crime scene photography.
General photos taken of the scene prior to processing that show everything as found
They paint a picture of the scene as discovered by the forensic unit.
Define exhibit photos.
Specific photos of an exhibit/object that follow a defined process and typically consist of a series of four photos
They document the area where the exhibit should be in scene photos.
True or False: A crime scene photographer needs to be a professional photographer.
False
They need to be competent with a camera and should have formal training for court purposes.
What should a photographer assess before starting to photograph a crime scene?
Is the scene safe to photo? What PPE precautions do you need to take? Do you have lawful authority to be in the scene? What type of scene is it?
These considerations are crucial for safety and legality.
Describe the method of photographing crime scenes.
Photograph the scene from many directions and angles to show layout, position of evidence, and spatial relationships
Photographs are important for further analysis and may be used in court.
What is the sequence for photographing a crime scene?
Overall scene first, then individual pieces of evidence
This logical succession helps relate evidence back to the larger scene.
List the four types of photographs required for a specific item of evidence.
- Overall photograph
- Mid-range photograph
- Close-up photograph
- Close-up photograph with a scale
Each type serves a specific purpose in documenting the evidence.
What type of camera is typically used for crime scene photography?
Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera
This type allows what is seen through the viewfinder to be how the photo will turn out.
What is a Charge Coupled Device (CCD)?
The digital equivalent of film that contains millions of silicon photo sensors
Each photo sensor is a pixel or picture element.
What are the characteristics of JPEG file format?
Fast, ‘lossy’ format that loses some quality each time opened/closed
It is the most common image format used in digital cameras.
What is the purpose of exposure in photography?
To control the amount of light that reaches the camera sensor
A balanced exposure is crucial for image quality.
What does aperture control in photography?
The size of the opening in the camera lens through which light passes
It is indicated as an f/number or f-stop.
How does shutter speed affect exposure?
It determines the length of time the camera shutter is open, affecting light exposure
Longer shutter speeds allow more light; shorter speeds allow less.
What is ASA/ISO in photography?
A numerical rating that describes the sensitivity to light of CCD/film
It brightens a photo after the sensor has been exposed to light.
Define depth of field.
The distance between the closest and farthest objects in a photo that appear acceptably sharp
It is controlled by the aperture selection.
What does focal length determine in photography?
The angle of view and the magnification of the scene captured
Longer focal lengths result in narrower angles of view.
What is TTL Flash Metering?
A mode on the camera where a pre-flash occurs to measure light for exposure calculation
It is not visible to the human eye in front sync mode.
What is the purpose of direct flash in photography?
To point the flash directly at the subject/item being photographed
This technique can create harsh lighting.
What is oblique flash used for?
To photograph impression evidence by creating shadows on the surface
It is held at an angle to the subject being photographed.
How should photographs of footwear impressions be taken?
First without scale, then with scale, ensuring the scale is at the same level as the impression
Flash should be angled to capture detail.
What is the approach to photographing assault victims?
Start with overall photos, then mid-range, followed by close-ups of injuries
It is important to maintain the victim’s privacy and dignity.
What are the steps involved in photographing vehicles?
- Start with the exterior
- Photograph each side, corner, license plate, VIN, and decals
- Capture the interior systematically
Includes documenting any damage or custom accessories.
What is the purpose of video in crime scene photography?
To provide a quick overview of a complex scene and tie parts of a scene together
It should not be narrated and needs to be done well.
What is the recommended approach for taking crime scene photos?
Take as many photos as needed, better too many than too few
Time at the scene may be a limiting factor.
What is the purpose of photographing a crime scene?
To preserve how the scene looked before evidence is moved
Capturing the scene is critical as once evidence is moved, it cannot be photographed again.
How many photos should be taken at a crime scene?
As many as needed, better too many than too few
Time at a scene is limited, so capturing ample photos is crucial.
What conditions can affect crime scene photography?
Weather and lighting
These conditions guide the technique and camera settings used.
What are some key questions to consider before photographing a crime scene?
- What is the purpose of photographing this scene?
- Does the object have a relationship to the overall scene?
- Will it be properly exposed?
- Is the correct equipment being used?
These questions help ensure effective documentation of the scene.
What is the importance of correct exposure in crime scene photography?
To capture detail in all parts of a scene, including highlights and shadows
Underexposed areas lose detail in shadows; overexposed areas lose detail in highlights.
What is required for sharp focus in photographs?
- Keep the camera steady
- Use a tripod if shutter speed is longer than 1/60th sec
- Focus carefully
- Use maximum depth of field
Sharp focus is essential for clear evidence documentation.
What is the methodical approach to photographing a crime scene?
- Show the overall scene
- Show the location of evidence
- Show detail with close-up photographs
Always work from the outside of the scene to the inside.
What should be included in overall scene photographs taken outside?
- Identifiers like street signs
- Surrounding area
- All doors, windows, and entrances
These elements establish the location of the crime scene.
What are mid-range exhibit photographs used for?
To show a piece of evidence in relation to other nearby items
They help differentiate similar looking pieces of evidence.
What should close-up photographs include?
- Item as found
- Label and/or scale
- Ruler and label for comparison purposes
Close-ups should capture finer details and be taken from a stable position.
What points must be remembered when photographing a crime scene?
- Start from the outside and work in
- Ensure correct exposure and focus
- Avoid distortion
- Photograph the surface area beneath a body after removal
These points enhance the quality and accuracy of crime scene photographs.
What are the three major points of qualification for photographic evidence in court?
- Photo contents must be relevant
- Must not be prejudicial to court or jury
- Must be free from distortion
These criteria ensure that photographic evidence is admissible in court.
True or False: Manipulated images are allowed in court as evidence.
False
Only enhanced images are allowed, not those that have been altered.
What is the difference between enhancement and manipulation in photography?
- Enhancement improves the value or quality
- Manipulation changes the photo for personal purposes
Enhancement is acceptable while manipulation is not allowed in court.
What should be taken into account when comparing photographs?
- Attention to detail
- Framing the subject
- Quality of exposure and balance
Proper attention leads to better photographic results.
Fill in the blank: Photographs must be _____ exposed, with maximum depth of field.
[correctly]
This is essential for accurate documentation of the crime scene.
