What is forensic scale?

What is forensic scale?

Abstract. Scales for forensic photography provide a geometrical reference in the photographic documentation of evidence. A common scale used by investigators is a plastic, L- shaped ruler that allows for a dimensional reference in the photographic documentation of evidence or a crime scene.

What type of scale is used in photographing a body?

Small self-adhesive scales are used to photograph evidence such as fingerprints and bullet holes in walls. 6 inch scales are used for photographing most small to medium sized evidence. Some 6 inch scales have small numbers for extreme close-up photographs and others have large numbers for photographing larger items.

What are the different types of camera used in forensic photography?

Most crime scene photographers use a high quality digital camera or 35mm camera. Digital cameras which have ten megapixel, or greater, image sensors and manual exposure settings (in addition to any automatic or programmed exposure modes) are usually suitable for crime scene and evidence photography.

What are the three basic types of search patterns?

Most commonly employed search methods are geometric patterns. The six patterns are link, line or strip, grid, zone, wheel or ray, and spiral. Each has advantages and disadvantages and some are better suited for outside or indoor crime scenes.

Why are scales used in forensic photography?

Scales are used to provide the viewer with an idea of the size of a mark or an impression. They also allow an examiner to enlarge the photo to its natural size for comparison purposes. Without a scale, it is difficult to compare the characteristics of such evidence as marks or impressions.

Which types of photographs are taken with and without scale?

Close-up Photographs and Evidence Photography Close-up photographs are deliberate depictions of individual items of evidence. They must show all sides of the item and clearly show any markings, defects, or other identifying features. Each photograph is usually taken twice: once with a scale, and once without a scale.

What are the methods of photographing the crime scene?

Experienced photographers often use a technique called “painting with light” to expose image details in dark or near-dark conditions. In this technique, the shutter is held open for seconds or minutes and the photographer walks through the scene adding light from sources such as a flashlight or detached camera flash.

What is grid method in crime scene?

The grid method of crime scene search involves splitting the crime scene into a grid pattern. First, investigation work is done from left to right and then re-done from top to bottom. In this way, every area is explored more than once to ensure that nothing is missed.

Why is a scale important when photographing evidence?

When close-up photographs are taken without a scale, the scale may be placed beside the evidence. Using scales properly is easy and takes little additional time when photographing evidence at crime scenes. The result is better evidence, better laboratory examination results, and more convictions.

What are the three types of crime scene photos?

What three types of photographs are taken at crime scenes?

• Overall Photographs. Overall photos capture the global aspects of the crime scene.
• Midrange Photographs.
• Close-up Photographs and Evidence Photography.

What are the 4 kinds of photographic view?

4 Points of View in Photography

• Bird’s-eye View. When photographing a subject from above, it is known as a “bird’s-eye view”.
• Becoming the Subject. This point of view tends to be the most effective, especially when photographing human subjects.
• Eye Level. This is the most common way to photograph a subject.
• Worm’s-eye View.