CFP Forensic Photographer Crime Scene Imaging & Documentation 5

Question 1

In photogrammetry-based crime scene reconstruction, what is the minimum recommended number of photographs of a single object from different positions to generate an accurate 3D model?

Accepted Answer

At least 20-30 overlapping images covering all surfaces with 60-80% overlap

Answer

Photogrammetric 3D reconstruction requires dense overlapping coverage (20-30+ images with 60-80% overlap) to give the software enough common feature points for accurate model generation.

Question 2

A forensic photographer uses a drone to document an outdoor mass casualty scene. Which regulatory requirement must be met before flight in the U.S.?

Accepted Answer

FAA Part 107 remote pilot certification or a Certificate of Waiver/Authorization for restricted airspace

Answer

FAA Part 107 requires commercial UAS operators to hold a Remote Pilot Certificate, and flights in controlled or restricted airspace require a waiver or authorization from the FAA.

Question 3

When photographing gunshot residue (GSR) on a victim's hands, why is it critical to photograph before any swabbing or SEM collection?

Accepted Answer

Photographing first documents the distribution pattern that is destroyed during collection

Answer

GSR distribution patterns on the hand provide information about firing position and distance; collection swabbing destroys the spatial distribution that photographs alone can preserve.

Question 4

A forensic photographer is asked to re-photograph a scene two weeks after the initial crime scene investigation. What is the primary legal concern?

Accepted Answer

The scene may have changed substantially, making the images potentially misleading without proper disclosure

Answer

Any changes to the scene between the crime date and re-photography must be fully disclosed because altered conditions could mislead the jury about the original scene state.

Question 5

What is the recommended camera orientation when photographing long, linear evidence such as a blood trail or drag mark?

Accepted Answer

Orient the camera to capture the longest dimension along the frame's long axis, with scale alongside

Answer

Aligning the camera orientation with the long axis of linear evidence maximizes frame use and keeps the scale visible alongside the evidence throughout its length.

(CFP) Certified Forensic Photographer Practice Test

(CFP) Certified Forensic Photographer Practice Test

CFP Forensic Photographer Crime Scene Imaging & Documentation 5