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Crime Scene Photography: The Silent Witness

NCJ Number
155223
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 45 Issue: 3 Dated: (May/June 1995) Pages: 261-265
Author(s)
S C Warlen
Date Published
1995
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article outlines the various purposes for photographing a crime scene, so as to stimulate the crime-scene photographer to strive for a professional product that is essential to the total investigation and presentation of evidence in court.
Abstract
One purpose of crime-scene photography is to provide a visual record of virtually everything that was present at the crime scene. A photographic record can be used to show elements of the crime scene to those being interviewed or interrogated, so the questioner and those being questioned can have a common understanding of the information that is being exchanged. A second purpose of crime-scene photography is to create a permanent record that can be viewed at any time. Photographs are not only a part of the evidence but are a means of identifying evidence. Third, photographs help witnesses recall what they observed; this is especially helpful to witnesses after long court delays. Fourth, photographs supplement verbal descriptions, which have inherent limitations in conveying information about items at a crime scene, particularly in terms of shape, size, dimensions, color, or other characteristics. Fifth, photographs can record the scene in complete detail; they should show a good depth of field and reveal all there is to see. Further, photographs can clarify the testimony of witnesses and provide a distinctive portrayal of form, shadow, and color. A 9-item bibliography

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