but add views that include the body, rope or material used, and close-ups of
any wounds or markings. Illustrate the height of the body above the floor
by having another person stand along side the subject. Include views that
show chairs, stools, etc., that appear to have been kicked out from under
the victim's feet.
9.
Drowning.
Start by obtaining overall views of the scene. Photograph the entire body
from both sides from a standing position and ground level. Close-ups should
include foam about the mouth, any wounds, peculiar markings, bruises, or
unusual discoloration.
Color film is the best choice to record any
discoloration.
Again, under no circumstances do you release any information or photographs
to anyone outside of military channels.
The Public Affairs Officer
determines what information should be released to the civilian press. Your
responsibility is to the scene commander and his staff conducting the
investigation.
PART C - FIRE AND ARSON INVESTIGATIONS
Ever since man discovered fire it has been a blessing and when it gets out
of control, a curse.
Firefighters realize the value of a photographic
record of a fire, and the ruins, in helping to determine both the cause of
the fire, and the effectiveness of the methods used to fight the fire.
Another important use of your photography is in training firefighters.
However, our objective in this lesson is to focus on photography as a tool
used to determine the cause of a fire and if arson was involved.
10. Photographing Fire and Arson Scenes.
a. Importance of Early Arrival.
The photographer should make every
effort to arrive at the scene and begin documenting the fire as quickly as
possible, whether arson is suspected or not. The standard alert camera bag,
as discussed earlier in this lesson, should contain the necessary equipment.
Like any assignment of investigative photography, you should report to the
on scene commander to coordinate your efforts with what he needs.
b. The pictures you make of a fire while it is burning should include:
(1) The area or areas in which the fire started.
(2) Pictures of any spectators/groups. An arsonist often remains to
watch the fire.
These group photos may later help investigators identify
suspects.
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