Photography in forensic medicine

Abstract

Forensic photography, although similar to medical photography, has different aims, and different objectives. The main consideration is that the images are taken primarily for legal reasons, therefore the results must be accurate and detailed, and of use in court. The photographer must have an understanding of the technical requirements as well as the related medical and legal requirements. Autopsy photography must produce the minimum delay to the autopsy as well as being extremely reliable, as the images are not repeatable. This requires a combination of easily portable equipment and additional technical support. A good photograph clearly demonstrates the required information and minimizes distortion and misleading information. Factors to consider include identification, backgrounds, lighting, colour, scale, perspective, orientation and cropping. The requirements for the effective photographic documentation of forensic subjects are discussed, with reference to the current practices of a specialist forensic pathology service in South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.