​Instructor:  Michael Connolly, CCSI
Course length: 40 hours

---

Forensic Crime Scene Photography

This five-day course provides investigators, supervisors, CSIs, detectives, fire investigators, officers, and forensic professionals with a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of digital crime scene photography. Instruction begins with camera familiarization, ensuring participants understand the functions and capabilities of their digital equipment. Core photographic principles and foundational techniques are then introduced and demonstrated to build strong technical competency. The course concludes with detailed instruction and guided application of systematic crime scene photography procedures used to accurately and thoroughly document any scene.

Each day will begin with a brief oral assessment to reinforce key concepts learned during the previous session.

All topics are supported through hands-on, practical exercises designed to strengthen skills, build confidence and prepare participants for real-world application. Participants are strongly encouraged to bring the digital camera they use in the field, allowing them to develop proficiency with their own equipment and produce higher-quality professional results.

Entry-Level Standards: This is an introductory course; no prior experience in digital or crime scene photography is required. Participants need only bring a willingness to learn and engage actively throughout the program.

DAY 1 Initial Actions and Photography

• Assessing Crime Scene Photos
• Basic Photography
  • Introduction to the Camera - Understanding your equipment
  • Demystifying the various shooting modes
  • Exposure Triangle - ISO, Shutter Speed, Aperture

DAY 2 Basic Photography (cont.)

• Low Light Shooting
• Aperture and Depth of Field
• Manual Shooting

DAY 3 Introduction to Crime Scene Photography

• Overall, Mid-Range, Close-Up Photography
• Specialty Photography
  • Special Photography Techniques - Shooting Scene Evidence, Death Investigation, Vehicles, Fingerprints, etc.

DAY 4 Night Shooting (Noon to 8PM)

• Mock Crime Scene
• Night Time Photography
• Low Light Techniques
  • Painting with Light

DAY 5 Impression Evidence Photography

• 2-D impressions
• 3-D impressions
  • Footwear/Tire Track
  • Tool mark Impressions

EQUIPMENT

Mandatory equipment to have for class Digital Camera (DSLR or Point and Shoot) w/charger Off Camera Flash w/ cord (or remote) Removable Storage for Camera (i.e., SD card) Tripod

Suggested equipment

• Macro Lens (or ability to shoot macro)
• Extra Batteries for camera and/or flash
• Ruler/Scale
• Flashlight

Michael Connolly

Michael Connolly is a 29-year veteran of the Boston Police Department with prior service in patrol, plainclothes, and bike units. Since 2001, he has been assigned to the Crime Scene Response Unit (CSRU) and serves as a Ten Print Examiner and Certified Crime Scene Investigator (CCSI) through the International Association for Identification.

read more

ATTEND

Interested in attending one of these courses?  Check out our Upcoming Courses page for information on all scheduled courses.

UPCOMING COURSES

HOST

You can bring this course to your location!  For more no-obligation information or to complete a hosting application, click below.

HOSTING INFORMATION