What Challenges Can Occur When Photographing an Arson Scene?

Photographs can provide key evidence in cases of suspected arson.

Photographic evidence of arson or suspected arson is an important tool in determining its cause, identifying possible suspects and the charting the effectiveness of the actions in controlling the fire. Challenges occur in this type of photography. Chief among these challenges is the fact that arson fires are crime scenes. Preservation of evidence is paramount. Do not move or remove or items or otherwise disturb the scene.

Film

If using film, opt for color over black and white. The color of the smoke rising from a fire can often be helpful in determining the type accelerant used to start the fire. When using digital photography, do not save your images in JPEG format. JPEG is what is known as a lossy format -- the images lose information when they are opened and reopened on a computer. This is because of the compression algorithms used to save the information. Choose another form of file saving such as TIFF, BMP or RAW. These formats, however, use much more space than JPEG and require larger storage media.

Images

Alteration of the images should be avoided. Lightening a dark area is acceptable; erasing items is not.

Lenses

When photographing a charred wall, use a wide-angle lens or photograph the wall in sections. Photograph all interiors as they are. Do not open or close doors.

Overexpose

The photographic exposure of any blackened material will need to be adjusted upward (overexposing) by several f/stops to capture detail. An off-camera flash is also helpful in capturing the rippling effect of burned material.

Protect Yourself

Use personal protection gear when inside a damaged building. The structure may not be entirely secure. A hard hat can go a long way in keeping you safe.

Victims

There are often fatalities in an arson fire. Any bodies should be photographed immediately after discovery and before being removed. Their position in the location may have a bearing on the cause or possible arson targets. Photograph them from all angles.

All Angles

Assessment of the overall scene is also important. Photograph it from all angles, including the debris and equipment used in fighting the fire. Every fire can teach people how to better control the next one. Marking the position of the ladders, trucks and personnel can aid in training. Aerial photography may also need to be used. Have a contact to use during and after the fire.

Catch the Crowd

Photograph the spectators. Often arsonists stay around to observe.

References

• International Academy of Public Safety: Digital Photography for the Fire Investigator
• Integrated Publishing: Fire and Arson Photography