Forensic Photographer

Job Profile
Background

We are all familiar with the work of the Forensic Photographer through detective shows such as
CSI. While it may not always be quite as glamorous as depicted on TV, forensic photography is
still a fascinating area of work suitable to highly organised photographers who combine excellent
technical skills with a methodical and meticulous working practice. While it is the job of many other
photographers to interpret a brief, it is the job of the Forensic Photographer to produce accurate,
detailed photographs that faithfully record the location and evidence as clearly and as objectively
as possible.

Forensic photographs are used for measurement or analysis, to accompany forensic reports,
articles or research papers. Forensic Photography is an integral part of criminal investigation
procedures employed by police and security forces throughout the world. Photographers must
therefore follow a standard methodology and produce images of a rigorous technical standard so
that they can be used as evidence in hearings, tribunals and court proceedings. Since the subject
matter often relates to accident, injury or criminal investigations, Forensic Photographers will be
expected to be able to work efficiently in distressing and challenging environments, without
disturbing other evidence or interfering with the work of other investigators.

What is the job?

Forensic Photographers produce a permanent visual record of the scenes of accidents and crime
scenes for use as evidence in court. They must be able to produce detailed recordings of all the
available evidence at the scene, including overview photographs as well as accurate images of tire
marks, fingerprints, footprints, blood spatters, bullet holes and other unique evidence at the scene.
They must also be able to take detailed photographs of injuries sustained through accidents or
assaults and may also be required to photograph dead bodies. Much of the work is routine, but
photographing crime scenes and road traffic accidents, or visiting patients in hospital, can be
emotionally distressing.

Many Forensic Photographers are forensic scientists employed directly by the police or a
specialist forensic services company. They work pre-defined shifts and enjoy the benefits of a
salaried post. There are also other independent Forensic Photographers who provide forensic
photo imaging services to lawyers, insurance companies and some police forces. However, most
of these will have worked as Forensic Photographers with a police force or the Forensic Science
Service before branching out on their own. Photographers specialising in forensic imaging are
usually expected to work unsociable shifts, and be part of an on-call rota.

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Photographer

Typical Career Routes

While most Lead Photographers in Forensic Photography Units will usually have a strong
background and qualification in photography, most Forensic Photographers start as Crime Scene
Investigators or Scene of Crime Officers (SOCOs) before specialising in photography and forensic
imaging. While it is not necessary to have a formal photographic education in order to gain work
as a CSI, some photographic qualification (e.g. BTEC National Diploma in Photography) or
previous photographic experience will often enhance the chances of selection.

Once working as a CSI, officers usually receive general training in crime scene photography at
Centrex, the Central Police Training and Development Authority or on an approved University
short course. Further specialist training in Fingerprints, Footwear, Lighting and Documents is often
conducted in house by the Forensic Science Service and other forensic service companies.

Most forensic scientists in the United Kingdom are currently employed by the Forensic Science
Service (in England and Wales), by specific police forces (in Scotland), and by regional
government (in Northern Ireland). They are also employed by private companies which also
specialise in providing primary forensic science services to the police such as Forensic Alliance
Limited and the Laboratory of the Government Chemist. Aside from these, there are a number of
other organisations which focus on specific areas of forensic science such as fire investigation,
questioned documents, and advising the armed forces and the ministry of defence.

Forensic Photographers providing services to the insurance industry and legal profession will often
have a background as CSI or as a photographer working within the armed forces (see Job Profile
for Staff Photographer) where they have received their training in Forensic Photography, before
branching out into independent work.

Vacancies for Forensic Photographers are advertised in the national press and in specialist
journals such as New Scientist, Police Review and the British Journal of Photography.

Essential Knowledge & Skills

Forensic Photographers need a thorough grasp of photographic principles, particularly those

involving non-standard techniques, such as high-intensity and low level aerial imaging, as well as
an appreciation of the importance of their work. They must also pay close attention to detail, and
take a meticulous approach to image and data recording. They must be able to select and use the
best equipment and techniques for the job in all environments and lighting conditions.
Photographs must be correctly lit and exposed, have maximum depth of field, be free from
distortion and be in sharp focus. Experience of digital imaging techniques is also desirable.

Forensic Photographers need a good grounding in police methods and conventions, and a sound
understanding of anatomy. They must be able to methodically record the original scene and the
initial appearance of physical evidence without the photograph appealing to the emotions of the
jury or in anyway prejudicing the case. They must also keep detailed records of exactly where
photographs were taken, the type of camera and lenses, what stock the picture was taken on, and
whether flash or artificial lights were used.
This work requires a dedication and care which is not always necessary in other, less objective,
forms of photography. The role also requires tact and discretion when dealing with distressed
victims of crime, and the ability to interact with a wide variety of professionals including police
officers, doctors, lawyers and court officials.
 Job Profile – Photo Imaging
Photographer

There are National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Photo Imaging. These give a detailed
breakdown of the knowledge, awareness and skills needed to effectively carry out a particular job
role. The NOS relevant to this job are listed at the end of this profile.

Training and qualifications

Forensic Photographers usually receive general training in crime scene photography once they
have already been selected as a Crime Scene Investigator or a Scene of Crime Officer. The
qualifications necessary to gain work as a CSI or SOCO are usually at least good passes at GCSE
or Standard Grade, including English and either science (Biology/Chemistry) or Maths, and at
least one A level or Higher in a science subject.

A typical route to employment a Forensic Photographer is to complete a recognised course in

photography (e.g. City & Guilds or BTEC National Diploma in Photography) and to apply for jobs
with police forces or specialist forensic service companies, taking advantage of subsequent on the
job training.

Larger police forces, such as the Greater Manchester and the Metropolitan, employ dedicated
forensic photography units to work alongside CSIs (Crime Scene Investigators). In smaller forces
CSIs cover their own forensic photography requirements after an intensive training course in
forensic photography, which is often conducted at Centrex, the Central Police Training and
Development Authority centre.

There are also some specialist courses that deal with forensic photography and forensic imaging,
as well as photo imaging modules on forensic science degree courses. More specialised training
in Fingerprints, Footwear, Vehicle Examination, Lighting and Documents is often conducted within
the photographic units of the police forces or forensic science companies.
Some employers may also support work-based courses, such as Apprenticeships and NVQ/SVQs.
Photo Imaging NVQ/SVQs are currently available at levels 2, 3 and 4.

Health & Safety – All photographers need to understand Health & Safety legislation, and should be
capable of assessing and managing the risks and potential dangers associated with the use of
electrical lighting, equipment and props. Forensic Photographers may be subject to physical
stresses from carrying heavy camera equipment and lighting, indoors and out, in all seasons and
all environmental conditions. They should therefore seek advice about appropriate techniques for
lifting and moving equipment. There may also be a range of other risks specific to their area of
work and they should seek suitable training in appropriate risk management procedures and best
practice.

Where to go for more information

Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the Creative Media Industries. For information about
training and professional qualifications, links to the Skillset network of training partners, and
access to the comprehensive Skillset course database, visit www.skillset.org
Skillset Careers is the UK’s only specialist media careers advice service delivering individual
career solutions when and how you need them. For detailed media careers information and
advice, contact one of the free careers helplines. Call 08080 300 900 in England (also available to
callers from Wales and Northern Ireland) or 0845 850 2502 in Scotland, or visit the website
www.skillset.org/careers
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Photographer

The Forensic Science Service (FSS) is a trading name of Forensic Science Service Ltd., which
is a UK Government owned company (GovCo). www.forensic.gov.uk

The British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP) is a not for profit association of
professional image makers that aims to improve standards, develop skills and encourage
continuing professional development. The BIPP recognises nine colleges across the UK who have
proved that they have the resources, facilities and expert lecturers necessary to run an effective
professional photographic course.
For details of BIPP Qualifications for practising professionals visit the Membership pages on the
BIPP website. For a list of approved colleges, including those offering the PQE e-mail
info@bipp.com. Student Membership is available to students attending a vocational course in
photography at an educational establishment in the UK. The Institute’s Journal ‘The Photographer’
is supplied free to all members. T: 01920 464011 www.bipp.com

The Royal Photographic Society (RPS) is the industry’s ‘learned body’. Established 150 years
ago it aims to promote the art and science of photography. It awards distinctions that are
recognised throughout the world and has established special interest groups and meetings for its
members, who are drawn from both amateur and professional photographers. It publishes a
monthly journal.
T: 01225 325733 www.rps.org

Last updated 2009

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