c. Remember, when producing photographs for legal use, they must be
sharp, clear, and undistorted. You must present the facts as they are; not
your impressions.
(1) Do not use dramatic lighting or other photographic techniques
that create misrepresentation of the facts. Your goal is to record scenes
in their natural state.
(2) Provide a natural view by photographing scenes from eye level
using a normal focal length lens. Keep in mind that there may be occasions
when you must use a shorter focal length lens due to limited room in which
to work. Use a tripod or other method of stabilizing the camera to ensure
sharp images.
4.
Photograph Restrictions.
a. Record Detail. Your light source should be strong enough
to enable
you to use fine grain high resolution films like Kodak Plus-X,
or Kodak
Ektar 25.
This will enable you to record small details that
will show
clearly in enlargements for use by the investigator and
in court
presentations.
b. Prepare Detailed Captions.
Your photographs alone are not
admissible evidence in a court of law.
Someone must attest to the
authenticity of the picture.
You can aid in this by preparing detailed
(1) The
caption should contain names, places, dates, times,
circumstances, and perhaps measurements.
In addition, it should contain
photographic data such as lens focal length, film type, camera angle, height
and distance from the subject. A sketch of the scene marking the spot from
which each picture is taken will be helpful especially if you take more than
one picture.
(2) Strict security procedures are also required to protect proof of
authenticity, even if the pictures do not contain classified material.
5.
Alert Photographer.
Almost every photo lab has an alert photographer available 24 hours a day, 7
days a week to take investigative photography. An alert camera kit should
also be ready at all times and contain the following equipment and supplies:
a. A 35mm format camera with a variety of lenses from wide angle to
telephoto.
b. An electronic flash with extra batteries and sync cords.
3-6
SS0516
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