Forensic imaging is specialized forensic service in which forensic photographers and imaging specialists take and prepare traditional and digital images for use in crime scene investigation. Forensic imaging specialists may also work on creating clay or silicone figures to recreate crime scenes and uncover more information about the crime scene, suspects and evidence. Though no formal degree exists in forensic imaging, a combination of law enforcement, criminal investigation, art and photography degrees or an appropriate training workshop help a forensic imaging specialist obtain a career.
Forensic Photography
Forensic photographers photograph pieces of evidence to use for analysis, articles, research papers and to accompany reports administered to the jury in court cases. A forensic photographer often begins working as a criminal investigator with a criminal investigation or law enforcement degree and later adding a photography degree. Photographers in this career field may begin with a strong background and degree in photography followed by experience in the law enforcement field. Forensic photographers may work directly for local police, state police or forensic labs and take photographs for crime scenes like murder scenes or automobile accidents.
Forensic Modeling
Forensic imaging specialists who work to create models from silicone and clay begin their careers with a combination of art degrees and criminal investigation or law enforcement degrees. The forensic modeling artist may begin her career after majoring in art and obtaining a minor in either criminal investigation or law enforcement. Specialists in this field may eventually work to create silicone molds of footprints or body molds to help forensic investigators determine murder weapons or blood spray patterns.
Training
Because no formal degrees exist in forensic imaging, forensic imaging specialists may receive training courses for certification in the field. During the training workshops, trainees will learn photograph pieces of evidence, particularly setting up photography equipment, eliminating flash reflection and bringing photos into focus. Trainees will learn care for their cameras and program and use their equipment effectively for the best photographs of evidence items both outdoors on the scene and later, indoors, for close-ups and more detailed photos of the items.
Tags: criminal investigation, imaging specialists, criminal investigation enforcement, forensic imaging, investigation enforcement, crime scene