How to Record Ballistic Evidence with a Camera

📷 Essential Equipment for Ballistic Evidence Photography

Having the right equipment is paramount for capturing high-quality images of ballistic evidence. This includes cameras, lenses, lighting, and various accessories.

• Digital SLR Camera: A high-resolution DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls is essential for adjusting settings.
• Macro Lens: A macro lens allows for close-up photography of small details, such as bullet markings and cartridge casings.
• Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the overall scene and the relationship between different pieces of evidence.
• Tripod: A sturdy tripod is necessary for maintaining stability and preventing camera shake, especially in low-light conditions.
• External Flash: An external flash provides consistent and controlled lighting, improving image quality and reducing shadows.
• Scale or Ruler: A scale or ruler is used to provide a reference for size and dimensions in the photographs.
• Photo Markers: Numbered or lettered markers help identify and organize the evidence in the photographs.
• Notebook and Pen: For documenting all photographs taken, including the date, time, location, and description of the evidence.

🔍 Preparing the Crime Scene for Photography

Before beginning photography, the crime scene must be properly prepared to ensure the quality and accuracy of the images. This involves securing the scene, assessing the lighting conditions, and organizing the evidence.

• Secure the Scene: Ensure the crime scene is secured and protected from contamination or disturbance.
• Assess Lighting Conditions: Evaluate the ambient lighting and determine if additional lighting is needed.
• Document the Scene: Take preliminary photographs of the overall scene before any evidence is moved or altered.
• Organize Evidence: Place photo markers next to each piece of evidence to identify it in the photographs.
• Maintain a Log: Keep a detailed log of all photographs taken, including the camera settings, lens used, and a description of the evidence.

⚠ Photographic Techniques for Ballistic Evidence

Employing the correct photographic techniques is crucial for accurately capturing ballistic evidence. This includes overall scene shots, mid-range shots, and close-up shots of individual pieces of evidence.

Overall Scene Shots

These shots provide context and show the relationship between different elements of the crime scene. Capture the entire area, including entry and exit points, and any relevant landmarks.

• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire scene.
• Include fixed objects in the scene for reference.
• Take multiple shots from different angles.

Mid-Range Shots

Mid-range shots focus on specific areas within the crime scene, such as the location of a bullet impact or a firearm. These shots provide more detail than overall scene shots but still maintain some context.

• Show the relationship between the evidence and its immediate surroundings.
• Include photo markers for identification.
• Adjust the lighting to highlight important details.

Close-Up Shots

Close-up shots capture the fine details of individual pieces of evidence, such as bullet markings on a wall or the serial number on a firearm. These shots are essential for forensic analysis.

• Use a macro lens to capture fine details.
• Use a scale or ruler to provide a size reference.
• Adjust the lighting to eliminate shadows and highlight details.
• Take multiple shots at different angles and magnifications.

📝 Documenting the Photographic Process

Thorough documentation is essential for maintaining the integrity of the photographic evidence. This includes recording all camera settings, lens information, and a detailed description of each photograph.

• Camera Settings: Record the ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and white balance settings for each photograph.
• Lens Information: Note the lens used, focal length, and any filters applied.
• Description of Evidence: Provide a detailed description of the evidence in each photograph, including its location, orientation, and any unique characteristics.
• Date and Time: Record the date and time each photograph was taken.
• Chain of Custody: Maintain a clear chain of custody for all photographic evidence.

✍ Specific Examples of Ballistic Evidence Photography

Different types of ballistic evidence require specific photographic techniques to ensure accurate documentation. Here are some examples:

Firearms

Photographing firearms involves capturing overall views, close-ups of serial numbers, and details of any modifications or markings. Ensure the firearm is rendered safe before handling it.

• Photograph the entire firearm from multiple angles.
• Capture close-ups of the serial number and any identifying marks.
• Document the condition of the firearm, including any damage or modifications.
• Photograph the firearm with and without a scale.

Bullet Impacts

Photographing bullet impacts involves capturing the entry and exit points, as well as any surrounding damage. Use oblique lighting to highlight the details of the impact.

• Photograph the entry and exit points from multiple angles.
• Use oblique lighting to highlight the details of the impact.
• Include a scale in the photograph to provide a size reference.
• Document the type of surface the bullet impacted.

Cartridge Casings

Photographing cartridge casings involves capturing overall views, close-ups of head stamps, and any markings left by the firearm. Use a macro lens to capture fine details.

• Photograph the entire cartridge casing from multiple angles.
• Capture close-ups of the head stamp and any identifying marks.
• Use a macro lens to capture fine details.
• Photograph the cartridge casing with and without a scale.

Bullet Trajectories

Photographing bullet trajectories involves documenting the path of the bullet through the scene. Use trajectory rods or lasers to visualize the path.

• Use trajectory rods or lasers to visualize the path of the bullet.
• Photograph the trajectory from multiple angles.
• Include reference points in the photographs to establish the trajectory.
• Document the location of each trajectory rod or laser point.

📁 Storing and Preserving Photographic Evidence

Proper storage and preservation of photographic evidence are essential for maintaining its integrity and admissibility in court. This includes creating backups, storing images in a secure location, and maintaining a chain of custody.

• Create Backups: Create multiple backups of all photographic evidence and store them in separate locations.
• Secure Storage: Store the original images in a secure, climate-controlled environment.
• Chain of Custody: Maintain a clear chain of custody for all photographic evidence, documenting who has access to the images and when.
• File Format: Store images in a lossless format, such as TIFF or RAW, to prevent data loss.
• Metadata: Preserve the metadata associated with each image, including the date, time, and camera settings.