How to Examine Crime Scene Photos

The initial investigation of a crime scene is vital to the outcome of the case. Before any evidence is inspected, detailed photographs of the crime scene are taken and remain as the lasting record of evidence. Learn how to carefully examine crime scene photos to determine the unknowns of a crime. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

1. Understand that crime scene photos are part of a 5-step process for examining a crime scene. Vital for evidence, crime scene photos are often used in court cases to prove the guilt or innocence of the defendant.

2. Know that crime scene photos are used to show that a crime occurred, to illustrate the key elements of the crime, to find or eliminate suspects and to corroborate or refute witness testimony.

3. Investigate crime scene photos in the order that the photos were taken. Crime scene photographers take three general categories of shots at a crime scene: shots of the overall scene which show the surroundings of the place of the crime, mid range photos that show the spatial relationship between items at a crime scene and close-up photos that provide detail of the items at the scene. Photos of individual items are shot using a ruler in the picture for scale and measurement.

4. Observe every detail offered in the photos and compare the details to witness accounts and crime scene reports. Note the socio-economic situation where the crime occurred. Pay attention to the victim's appearance, including attire, contents of purse or wallet and wounds including bruises or bite marks. Note trace evidence at the crime scene like cigarette butts, food wrappers or receipts that might point to a suspect.

Tips & Warnings

• Two sets of photographs are always taken at a crime scene in case one set is blurry.