About a Crime Scene Photographer

One of the most helpful developments in crime investigations has been the use of a crime scene photographer. Crime scene photographers are one of the first people on the crime scene, and with good reason. They document things before people touch and move anything or trample through the area. They also must have a horde of other skills, from specialized camera use to being able to distance herself from what she's viewing--and snapping photos of for others to view.

Function

The main job of the crime scene photographer is to document the immediate scene and surrounding areas for later analysis by investigators. Taking many photos of the victim and area where violence occurred is the first step, but photographers should also include a wide range of shots in surrounding areas as their assignment. This will document other clues that could assist investigators, such as getting a glimpse into the victim's hobbies, collections, economic status and other tips gleaned from other areas surrounding the zone of violence.

Geography

In addition to the immediate crime scene and surrounding areas inside a house or establishment, the crime scene photographer should step outside. Photographing the perpetrator's possible point of entry and exit is a must, as is snapping shots of the immediate dwelling, nearby establishments and an overview of the neighborhood. Overlapping shots work well for a panoramic view, but the camera settings should never be placed on a wide-angle lens because that distorts the photo. Aerial photos are also a plus for wide-reaching investigations, such as a serial rapist or murder, as it can capture the canvas of the killer's stomping grounds.

Features

Crime scene photographers must be sharp, accurate and have acute organizational skills. A good eye aids with the job, as some minute details that others may overlook can be captured by a very astute photographer. Of course, he must also have full knowledge of the camera with which he is working so he can take the best shots possible. Another must for a crime scene photographer is flexibility; he may be called to a scene at 4 p.m., noon or half-past midnight. He needs reliable equipment and transportation.

Misconceptions

Crime scene photography is not a job in which people rush in, snap a few bloody photos and leave. It is a highly scientific and often tedious profession. It also requires more than just knowing how to use a camera. A basic knowledge of math is essential for determining angles of the shots and pasting together a montage that depicts a large-scale view. Scales and rules also are used to determine distances and size of objects, but they should never be placed at the actual scene because they may mar evidence. Special knowledge of high-tech equipment may also be required, such as infrared ultraviolet photography. This can show things not visible to the naked eye, such as bleeding under the skin from latent bite marks.

Warning

Perhaps one of the most important traits of a crime scene photographer is a strong stomach. She must also be able to distance herself from her work to look at it objectively and never let emotions get involved. As with other professions that deal directly with violence and death, such as police officers, journalists and emergency medical technicians, crime scene photography takes a very thick skin. Some of the scenes will be beyond a person's wildest nightmares. Her work cannot be hindered by not being able to deal with what occurred. Sights are often gory, and the smells associated with many crime scenes may be enough to turn even the most seasoned professional's stomach.