intervals of several minutes to show the intensity and direction of the fire. Then photograph any spectators. The
perpetrator may be present, watching the results of his or her efforts.
When the fire is extinguished, photograph the entire exterior of the structure. Then photograph all affected
interior areas and any evidence found. Photograph in detail suspected points of the fire's origin and areas showing
an "alligator" burn pattern. You cannot rely on your exposure meter when trying to photograph charred wood.
Instead, use a two- or three-stop overexposure.
Accident scenes should be photographed as soon as possible after the event. Except when photographing
vehicles, set your lenses at normal focal length. This will prevent distortion in the relative width of roads,
distances between points, and the like. If special lenses are used, note that fact in your record of the search and
give a description of the lenses used.
Photograph the overall scene of the accident from both approaches to the point of impact. Capture the exact
positions of vehicles, injured and deceased persons, and objects directly connected to the accident. If possible,
take photographs of skid marks before the vehicle is moved. Then take photos of the marks after the vehicle is
moved. Photograph all points of impact, all marks of impact, and all damage to real property. Be sure you record
any pavement obstructions and defects in the roadways. Make closeup photographs of damage to each vehicle.
Make at least two for each vehicle. The first should show the front and one side. The second closeup should
show the rear and other side of the same vehicle. And, of course, you will want photos of tire tracks, glass, and
other associated debris.
Usually, death scene photography must be more extensive than that of other crime scenes. This is due to
the severity of the offense. Photograph the approaches to the scene and its surrounding areas (the yard of a
building in which a death occurs, general area surrounding an outdoor crime scene). Take closeup photographs of
the entrance and exit to the scene or of the route most likely to have been used if the entrance and exit are not
obvious.
Make general scenario shots showing the location of the body and its position in relation to the room or area
in which it was found. And give 360-degree coverage of the room or scene with overlap points clearly identified
in the photographs. All evidence must be photographed--shots establishing the evidence in relation to the scene,
shots of evidence closeup, and shots of evidence closeup with a ruler to show perspective and size. After the
body is moved and each item of evidence is removed, photograph the area underneath them if there is any mark,
stain, additional evidence, or other apparent change. Photograph any contaminated prints before you try to collect
them. Photograph developed latent prints prior to lifting. Include shots of areas where prints are discovered if the
areas were not included in other photographs. Photograph bloodstains, including their locations, with color film if
you can. Black and white pictures should also be taken.
2-9
MP2002
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