crime scene photography - phase 1

Crime scene photography remains one of the most important aspects of crime scene and criminal investigation. Notes and sketches document only items of evidence and interest that the investigator recognizes and records. However, proper use of a camera can capture everything of significance at a crime scene that is contained in the viewfinder. This permanent recording can prove invaluable days, months, and even years after the crime scene has been released by law enforcement.

Surveys of those charged with documenting crime scenes continually reveal the lack of basic skills in operating a digital camera and thus obtaining relevant photographs suitable for presentation in courtroom proceedings. This 3-day course is designed for all personnel in the judicial process who are charged with taking crime scene photographs and/or presenting the images in judicial and administrative proceedings. The course is taught with classroom lecture on photography concepts followed by hands-on exercises. Nikon® equipment (supplied by Penn Camera) common to many CSI units will be utilized.

Download 2012 Crime Scene Photography - Phase 1 Brochure

Schedule:

2012 Class Availability
July 23-25	OPEN

Course Overview

The student will leave the course with:
• A high-level of understanding of digital cameras
• Techniques for capturing quality images under various conditions
• Acceptable standards for documenting crime scenes and physical evidence via photography.

Day 1

• Introduction and Registration (1 hour)
Students and the instructor will discuss experiences and trends with crime scene photography.
• Basic Crime Scene Documentation, Legal Standards, and implication of the NAS Report for Crime Scene Photography (1 hour)This lecture will review crime scene documentation concepts and the legal standards for admissibility of photographs in court.
• Photography Concepts, Terminology, and Basic Camera Operation (4 hours)During this lecture the student will learn basic camera concepts, formatting a proper image, lighting techniques, terminology, and common settings on the digital camera. Students will learn how to take the camera out of the “automatic” mode so they can maximize the capabilities of the digital camera. Students will learn to download images for presentation and the effects of digital compression (TIFF, RAW, JPEG).
• Practical Exercise (1 hour)Students will be divided into pairs and assigned for classroom work only a Nikon® camera kit in order to familiarize themselves with camera settings discussed previously during lecture.

Day 2

• Review from Day 1 (1 hour)
• F/Stops and Aperture, Practical Exercise and review of Images (3 hours)During this lecture the student will be taught the importance of f/stops, the effects on the photographic image, and conduct exercises to reinforce the lecture. Following the exercise students will self-critique their images in the classroom. Students will download images to a computer for presentation and class critique.
• Shutter Settings, Practical Exercise, and Review of Images (3 hours)During this lecture the student will be taught the effects of changing shutter speed, and conduct exercises designed to reinforce the lecture. Following the exercise students will present their images to the class and discuss techniques utilized during the capture of their images. Students will download images to a computer for presentation and class critique.

Day 3

• ISO, Lighting, Filter Selection, Painting with Light and Body Panoramic Images (1 hour)

This lecture will expose students to the concepts and effects of various lighting, ISO settings, dark scene photography and painting with light, as well as taking photographs of victims of crime.

• Practical Exercise and Review (2 hours)Students will conduct practical exercises to reinforce concepts discussed during the previous lecture. Students will download images to a computer for presentation and class critique.

• Luminol and Impression Evidence Photography (1 hour)This lecture will expose students to the concepts of photographing chemically-enhanced blood evidence (luminol-based and related products), as well as foot and tire impression evidence commonly found at crime scenes.

• Course Summary, Critique and Discussion (1 hour)

Instructor Bio

David G. Pauly

David Pauly retired from the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command as a Special Agent-in-Charge/Commander and Forensic Science Officer. He holds a Master of Forensic Science degree from George Washington University and is currently the Director of Applied Science at Methodist University, Fayetteville, NC. He graduated the FBI National Academy (Session 195), Canadian Police College Major Crimes Course, Miami-Dade Police Department Bloodstain Interpretation Course, and National Fire Academy Arson Investigation Course. He is a member or affiliate of the following organizations: American Academy of Forensic Science, IAI, North Carolina Chapters of the IAI and FBINAA, IABPA, ASIS, EPIC and Vidocq Society.

Additional Information

Course Dates, Location & Fee

The course will be held on-site at Sirchie’s facility in Youngsville, The course cost is $385.00 per student which includes tuition, study materials and lab fees. Transportation, food and lodging are the responsibility of the student.

Registration

To enroll, call (800) 356-7311 or register online.

TRANSPORTATION

Raleigh is served by several major airlines through RDU International Airport, which is a short drive from Sirchie’s training and manufacturing facility. Transportation from hotels to Sirchie’s facility is normally provided by the student.