Using Video
to Record the Crime Scene
Video taping is valuable for showing an overview of the crime scene and
should be used in major cases. Video taping provides an easily understandable
viewing medium that shows the layout of crime scene and the location of
evidence.
Techniques for Crime Scene Video Taping
When video taping crime, scenes follow these steps:
- Start the video tape with a brief introduction presented by an
investigator. The introduction should include the date, time, location, type
of crime scene, and any other important introductory information. The
introduction should also include a brief description of the rooms and
evidence will be viewed in the video tape. The investigator may want to use
a basic diagram as an illustration during the introduction.
- Video tape the crime scene, after the introduction, without any audio
recording.
- Begin video taping the crime scene with a general overview of the scene
and surrounding area.
- Continue throughout the scene using wide angle and close up views to show
the layout of the scene, location of evidence, and the relevance of evidence
within the crime scene.
- While video taping, use slow camera movements such as panning, and
zooming.
Copyright Information
The images and excerpts from the Crime Scene and Evidence Photographer's
Guide found on this World Wide Web page are copyright ©1997 by
Steven Staggs. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written
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Learn more about the Crime
Scene and Evidence Photographer's Guide