Policy Text
CATEGORY DATE ADOPTED LAST REVIEW NEXT REVIEW
3 01/24/2011 12/01/201 9 06/01/20 21
TUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
SS102 - Photography 1 SS102 PHOTOGRAPHY
SS102.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The purpose of this procedure is to describe the process of using photography to provide a true
and accurate representation of a crime scene .
Crime scene photography is an activity in which there is normally only one opportunity to correctly
complete the task. Depending on the nature of the crime or incident, conditions at a crime scene
may dictate the selection and use of differ ing equipment and techniques. Digital photography is
the primary method used in capturing images at a crime scene. Photo graphing and videotaping
should be performed by personnel trained in photography and video procedures.
Photographs must be correctl y exposed, have maximum depth of field, be free from distortion and
be in focus. When photographs are presented in court, they must provide a “clear and accurate
representation” of the crime scene. Photography procedures should be consistent with applicab le
statutory and case law.
The procedures included are intended to cover the majority of i nstances crime scene personnel
will encounter, but are not all inclusive. The procedure will also encompass the storage and
preservation of the evidence.
SS102.1.1 ACCREDITATION STANDARDS
This procedure pertains to the following CALEA Standards: 83.2.1, 83.2.2 , 83.2.4
This procedure relates to the following General Orders: §300.5; §318.2.5; §320.5.1; §326.4.2(b);
§434.2.1; §502; §814.2 .
SS102.2 EQUIPMENT
Tustin Police Department uses digital cameras as the primary image capture devices at crime
scenes. Every patrol officer is issued a point and shoot digital camera . The CSI Unit utilizes SLR
digital cameras as part of their equipment.
Video imaging can be used in a supplem entary capacity. Video cameras should have the ability
to incorporate external/wireless audio, the ability to disable on -camera audio, and to incorporate
in-camera image stabilization.
Employees shall use only camera s issued by the Department to capture crime scene
photo graphs . The use of personally -owned electronic equipment by employees in the
performance of their duties is prohibited.
CATEGORY DATE ADOPTED LAST REVIEW NEXT REVIEW
3 01/24/2011 12/01/201 9 06/01/20 21
TUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
SS102 - Photography 2 SS102.3 GENERAL CRIME SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY
The entire scene must be photographed as it was when the Detective or Evidence Tech arrived.
Whenever possible, avoid placing any type of evidence markers, scales, etc. in the scene prior to
the orientation/overall photos being taken.
Crime scenes, rega rdless of their complexity , will be documented using standard methods of
crime scene photography to include:
a) SLATE – This is the first photograph taken to show the case number, code section
applicable, name of person taking the photos, location of where ph otos are being take n;
date and time of photography ; and any other pertinent information for the record;
b) ORIENTATION (overall or long range) – This provides a general view of the entire scene,
building, etc. These photos should orient someone viewing them in order for them to
understand where they are, which direction they are facing, and what is in the surrounding
area;
c) RELATIONSHIP (medium range) – This shows relationships between items of evidence
or objects at the scene in relation to each other ;
d) IDENTI FICATION (close -up) – This shows specific items so they can be recognized and
identified, e.g., the face of a victim with injuries, the license plate or Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) on a vehicle, or an evidence item with an item number or item lette r marker,
etc.;
e) COMPARISON (close -up) – This documents class and individual characteristics for
future comparisons. A scale is required when taking comparison photographs and for
many identification photos. Place the scale in the same plane as the items being
photographed. Comparison photos will be taken at 90 -degree angles from the object,
injury, etc . Use the “fill-the-frame” technique while photographing for
identification/comparison photos.
The specific procedures for taking photographs are:
a) Take Slat e photo depicting case information (case number, date, officer name, etc.) ;
b) Take a “location photograph ” for each location where photographs are taken, locations
can include street signs; or address numbers adjacent to doors, sides of buildings, on
mailboxes, curbs, etc. ;
c) Keep the camera as level as possible;
d) Photograph with the camera at eye level whenever possible;
e) Photograph the scene primarily in “landscape” mode. “Portrait” mode photographs should
also be taken to supplement (but not replace) the pri mary photographs when necessary;
f) Keep the camera steady;
g) Focus carefully and use maximum depth of field;
h) Look at the frame of the scene;
i) Take overlapping photograph s;
j) Take photographs with and without a scale when t hey involve injuries, or are for
comparison purposes . Fill the