This Forensic Traffic Crash Scene Photography course has been designed to instruct the student in the proper photographic documentation of accident scenes up to and including traffic homicide scenes. Emphasis is placed on the capture of images that are suitable for in-court presentation to a trier of fact such as a judge or jury.
Day 1: 1400 – 2200 hours (note afternoon hours)
Basic Photography Primer (ISO, Aperture, Shutter speed).
Camera functions – with practical assignments.
Flash photography – using various lighting methods and techniques – with practical assignments.
Low light photography – with practical assignments
Mock crash scene(s) in daylight and night/low light:
of physical evidence from the roadway
of physical evidence from the vehicles
of skid markings
of driver and witness POV
Day 2: 0800 – 1700 hours
Review and critics of previous mock crash scene photography
Macro photography – with practical assignments (VIN and other identifying numbers, headlamp, speedometer, etc.)
Photographing vehicle and property damage
Photography body injuries (seat belt bruises and other injuries)
Photoshop/courtroom presentation display
UAV aerial lecture with possible demonstration, depending on FAA approval.
Student should bring:
digital SLR camera
wide to standard zoom lens
macro lens
external flash(es)
remote or off-camera sync cord (longer cable if possible)
memory cards (at least two cards)
tripod
level (or angle finder)
flashlight
laptop
memory card reader
umbrella (golf type is best)
extra batteries and charger for all equipment (camera, flash, and flashlight)
