ABSTRACT
Forensic photography is used to document evidence at a scene or at an autopsy for use by a pathologist or presented in court. It is important to accurately document each step of the investigation. To do this one must first understand how photography works, then devise a system that is consistent from scene to scene and from autopsy to autopsy. A shot list with accurate angles, scales, and tools will provide a formula that will cover all the photographic evidence needed for the investigation. Without a minimal shot list of photographs, the viewers not present at the scene could misinterpret evidence. Although each scene or autopsy may require additional photographs, it is good to have a basic shot list for the average scenario. This chapter will provide a simple system that breaks down scene and autopsy photography into three easy sections: overalls, midrange, and closeups. These three sections will cover all the photography skills needed to properly document forensic evidence and create a fast, consistent workflow. Before we begin, though, we will review the legal and regulatory environment, as well as how a camera works and how to accurately acquire images with as little distortion as possible.
