FORENSIC PHOTOGRAPHER 35046

EFFECTIVE DATE: 4/16/89 EEO CODE: B

This single class series provides photographic support to forensic scientists, medical examiners and law enforcement agencies. Positions in this class use forensic photographic procedures and techniques to record, develop and/or enhance altered, obliterated or obscure documents or document entries, impression evidence, fingerprints and other related evidence in order to preserve and reproduce evidence in adequate detail and definition for a forensic examination. Positions also develop film, make photographic enlargements to exacting dimensions and prepare photographic exhibits for court use.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty which involves exercising discretion in the selection and application of photographic techniques, procedures and equipment to record and enhance forensic evidence. Positions use forensic photographic techniques such as macro photography and infrared and ultraviolet procedures; photographic equipment including large and small format cameras, photo micrographic equipment, lenses, filters, light sources and film processors; and photographic materials and procedures adaptable to each particular forensic problem. Positions also determine how to best enlarge and process the photographs to meet the exacting needs of the forensic scientists and the courts and process or supervise the processing of the film. Positions are expected to maintain the chain of evidence and protect the integrity of the evidence while in their possession.

Supervision Given: Positions may supervise technicians involved in production and customized film processing.

Supervision Received: Receives directions from a forensic scientist or other higher level personnel. Forensic scientists describe desired results and the forensic photographer is expected to independently select the photographic techniques, procedures and equipment needed to obtain the result.

Scope: Work affects the completion, quality, and accuracy of photographic assignments which are used in forensic examinations and investigations.

Impact of Actions: The findings of forensic scientists are dependent on the ability of the forensic photographer to accurately reproduce and/or enhance forensic evidence in such a manner that it lends itself to forensic examination. Effective decisions result in quality photographs and facilitate the completion of forensic investigations.

Personal Contacts: Frequent contacts with forensic scientists, medical examiners and state and local law enforcement officers to

FORENSIC PHOTOGRAPHER

Page 2

explain and furnish advice concerning photographic applications to forensic and law enforcement problems. Positions may be required to testify in court regarding photographic techniques or the maintenance of the chain of evidence.

Knowledqe: Considerable knowledge of photographic techniques, camera equipment, graphic arts and film processing techniques and equipment.

Skills: Working skill in the operation of various types of cameras and camera accessories; black and white film processing, printing and enlarging techniques; and dry mounting photographs into multi-print exhibits.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to work independently and apply work priorities; to select and apply forensic photographic techniques and procedures; supervise the work of others; and to maintain supplies and records.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Possession of a valid Virginia driver's license.

Education or Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent including or supplemented by courses in photography and photo processing.

Level and Type of Experience. Experience in general studio photography, macro-photography, graphic arts and photo processing work.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledges and abilities may substitute for this training and experience.

This class was established in February, 1987 to provide photographic support to forensic scientists, medical examiners and law enforcement agencies. It was revised in September, 1988 as a result of the statewide Classification Review/ Specification Update Program.