CFP Forensic Photographer Crime Scene Imaging & Documentation 3

Question 1

Which photographic technique is specifically recommended for documenting bloodstain pattern evidence on a floor?

Accepted Answer

Overhead orthogonal photography with a scale placed parallel to the surface

Answer

Bloodstain patterns on floors require straight-down (orthogonal) photography with a scale in the same plane as the stains to allow accurate measurement and pattern analysis.

Question 2

A forensic photographer is asked to photograph a decomposed body in a wooded area during bright midday sun. What is the best approach to avoid harsh shadows obscuring detail?

Accepted Answer

Diffuse the light with a fill flash or reflector to balance harsh sunlight

Answer

Using fill flash or a reflector balances harsh midday shadows, revealing surface detail without destroying evidentiary integrity by waiting or altering the scene.

Question 3

Which metadata field is most important for establishing the temporal sequence of photographs in a disputed crime scene reconstruction?

Accepted Answer

Date/Time Original (EXIF DateTimeOriginal)

Answer

EXIF DateTimeOriginal records the exact moment of capture and is the primary metadata field used to establish the sequence and timeline of crime scene documentation.

Question 4

When using a scale (ruler) in forensic close-up photographs, it must be placed at what position relative to the evidence?

Accepted Answer

In the same plane as the evidence being photographed

Answer

The scale must lie in the exact same focal plane as the evidence to prevent parallax distortion that would make measurements inaccurate.

Question 5

A crime scene photographer is documenting an arson scene. Which lens choice best documents burn pattern depth and three-dimensionality on charred structural elements?

Accepted Answer

Standard 50mm with oblique raking light

Answer

A standard focal length with raking (oblique) light emphasizes surface texture, burn depth, and char patterns more effectively than wide or telephoto options.

(CFP) Certified Forensic Photographer Practice Test

(CFP) Certified Forensic Photographer Practice Test

CFP Forensic Photographer Crime Scene Imaging & Documentation 3