Photographs are a valuable tool for investigators documenting a fire scene. Recording the scene allows investigators to accurately document the conditions at the fire scene. Post-investigation, this factual data ensures that the conclusions of the investigation are verified and supported.
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Fire investigators can record the scene using photos, videos, maps, diagrams, notes, overlays, and tape recordings. However, without proper training and knowledge, the photos can be of poor quality. In this guide, we’ll provide more information about the importance of fire scene photography, the best cameras for investigators, techniques to use, and the challenges you may face as part of fire investigation procedures.
Importance of Fire Scene Photography in Fire Investigations
Fire scene photography is the process of capturing images that show the origin of the fire, its impact on the structures, and evidence that supports the investigation. Here are a few reasons why good-quality photographs are an important part of every investigation:
Determining Cause and Origin: High-quality images allow investigators to analyze burn patterns, fire spread, and structural damage, which can lead to conclusions about the fire's cause. For instance, documenting the point of origin can be critical in identifying whether the fire was accidental or intentional.
Supporting Legal Proceedings: Photographs serve as vital evidence in cases where fires result in legal action, such as arson charges or insurance claims. Courts often rely on visual documentation to understand the context and details of a case, which makes the quality and clarity of images important.
Creating a Comprehensive Record: Thorough documentation of a fire scene ensures that there is a complete record of the incident, which can be referenced in future investigations or for training purposes.
Comparing Digital Cameras for Fire Scene Photography
There are several different types of digital cameras for investigators to choose from. Point and shoot cameras and digital single lens reflex cameras (DSLR) are the two most commonly used.
DSLR Cameras
DSLR cameras have a mirror that reflects light to the viewfinder. When you click the shutter button, the mirror allows the light through the lens to record an image. With DSLR cameras, you can change flashes and lenses to capture a more detailed photograph.
DSLR cameras are used by most professional photographers, and they have a number of advantages. The interchangeable lenses allow investigators to have better control over the focal length and the use of flash for a stronger light source for low-light conditions. Investigators can quickly take high quality images that portray the details of the fire scene with accuracy.
On the other hand, DSLR cameras can be quite bulky and heavy, require regular maintenance, and require you to carry lenses and other interchangeable equipment, which may not be convenient.
Point and Shoot Cameras
Point and shoot cameras are compact and easier to use compared to DSLR cameras. The lens and flash are contained within the camera body and don’t need to be changed for different conditions. However, the information captured by the camera may not be as detailed or sharp as DSLR cameras.
Point and shoot cameras are less expensive than DSLR cameras, but they don’t offer as much control. For example, when working in low light situations, the images may be underexposed, even when using flash.
Video Cameras
Fire investigators can also use video cameras to take motion pictures of the fire scene. There are several different formats to choose from, such as 8 mm, BETA, and VHS. With videos, investigators can provide an accurate representation of the scene from different viewing angles. It can combine still photos, floor plan diagrams, photo indexing, and photo diagrams with a single tool.
Videos can also be useful for recording interviews of suspects, witnesses, and occupants. It may also be a helpful piece of evidence during legal proceedings like arson. However, videos are often considered less reliable and objective compared to still photos, so they shouldn’t be used exclusively.
Investigators can use videos along with still photos to record the fire scene and narrate observations. This can help investigators recall the scene more accurately, especially the evidence, fire patterns, and other important details.
Which is the Best Camera for Fire Scene Photography?
Fire investigators may encounter several different types of situations, but point and shoot cameras and DSLR cameras are usually sufficient for most of these. A DSLR camera is usually the best tool to capture the fire scene since it allows better control and creates better-quality images. However, there may be a learning curve involved.
A point and shoot camera is a good alternative for hard-to-reach places or when you want to record well-lit spaces. Ideally, a DSLR camera should serve as your main camera, while a point and shoot camera can be a good backup option. Some investigators also prefer to carry a camera that instantly develops prints.
Regardless of the type of camera you choose, it’s important to invest some time to learn how to operate the different functions so you’ll be comfortable using it when you arrive at the scene. Here are a few other factors to consider when choosing a camera for fire scene photography.
Film
There are several types of film to choose from in print and slide film. There are also several film speeds in the 35-mm range, which is the most widely used by fire investigators. Common speed ranges for color are 25 to 1600 and up to 6400 for black and white. Larger speed numbers require less light.
When working in low light conditions without flash, a faster film is better. However, these photographs may have a grainy appearance when they’re enlarged. Use the lowest speed rating you’re comfortable working with in case you may have to enlarge the photos. Most investigators use film with a 100 to 400 ASA rating. We recommend you spend some time becoming familiar with and practicing with the type of film and speed you’re likely to use regularly for fire investigations.
Lenses
The lens of the camera captures light and focuses the image on the surface of the film. As a fire investigator, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the function of the lens to capture good-quality photographs of the fire scene.
The surface of the lens collects light and sends it to the back of the camera to the film. The aperture is an opening in the lens that allows you to control how much light is collected. The adjustments made to the aperture are measured as f-stops. The larger the f-stop number, the smaller the opening, and the less light is admitted.
There are several different focal lengths in lenses, such as 50 mm, 28 mm (wide angle), and zoom lenses (100 mm or more). Become familiar with different focal lengths and determine which one you’re most likely to use for investigations.
The depth of field measures the distance between the nearest and farthest objects that will be in focus. This depends on the distance you’re photographing, the focal length, and the lens opening. The depth of field is an important factor that impacts the quality of your photographs. A larger f-stop will offer a greater depth of field. A shorter focal length will also provide a greater depth of field.
You’ll be able to see and capture more minute details with more depth of field, so it’s an important technique to learn more about. If you’re using a fixed lens camera, the lens may be preset, and you don’t need to be as concerned with manual adjustments. A medium-range zoom lens (35-70 mm) providing a good depth of field and wide angle, with the ability to take macros, is a good option for most fire investigators.
Prints and Slides
Another important consideration for investigators is prints or slides. One benefit of using slides is that you can display large-sized images without any additional cost. You can show slides in court to capture the attention of jurors on the evidence you’re testifying about. If you’re using prints, you may have to opt for poster-sized enlargements.
On the other hand, you may have to use a projector for slides for detailed scene explanations or longer testimony. There may also be other issues with using slides, such as the projector stopping or the slides jamming. This may cause delays if you don’t have prints as a backup.
With prints, you don’t need projectors or any other devices to display them. You can also easily affix notations on prints. Whether you use prints or slides, it’s important to use color film to make the final photograph realistic and to accurately display the color variations between smoke stains and objects.
Fire Scene Photography Techniques
Investigators can use several different types of fire scene photography techniques to document the scene accurately. These techniques are recommended to ensure that the scene is properly and systematically photographed.
Photos are a crucial piece in investigations, so we recommend taking a series of photographs to document the contents and structure of the scene. Usually, investigators start from the outside and work their way inside the structure. Special attention should be paid to the heavily burned areas as well as any elements that can point to the fire’s point of origin and cause. It’s also important to document the entire scene to show the evidence of undamaged areas and the degree of damage and smoke spread.
Here are some of the techniques to use in your investigations.
Sequential Photographs
Sequential photographs refer to the process of taking a photo of an item from a distance to show its location in the fire scene and then taking a series of photos moving closer to the item. This can help the investigator recall where a specific item was located in the scene.
When you only take close-up photos of evidence, it may be difficult to determine where it was located in the scene without the use of sequential photographs.
Mosaics
This technique involves taking several photos of an area and then assembling it into a single photograph. There are several cameras today that have an in-built function that allows you to do this. Mosaics can be helpful when you want to capture an image of an entire area.
You can also do this by assembling multiple images by hand or with the help of a software program to ensure the final picture will be similar to what an investigator saw at the fire scene.
Fill Flash
Fill flash is not a fire scene photography technique but a lighting method. You’ll need a large flash to do this, preferably an external flash. Fire scenes can have low-light environments, so having a large flash can help ensure that any photographs you take are properly exposed.
Photo Diagram
Another useful technique for investigators is a photo diagram. When a floor plan of the scene is complete, you can copy it and draw directional arrows on the plan. You can then place corresponding numbers on the photographs. This technique can help with orientation for those who were not present at the fire scene.
Types of Photographs to Include in Your Investigation
When recording a fire scene, NFPA 921 recommends that investigators should capture as many aspects of the investigation as possible. This may include the cause and origin, overhaul, and suppression activities.
Following a systematic approach is also recommended when photographing a scene. While it is up to you to determine how to photograph the structure, it’s usually a good idea to ensure that you completely document the fire origin, fire spread, cause, and witness statements. Here are the most important types of photographs that should be a part of your documentation.
Exterior Photographs
Start in the same location and in the same way every time you photograph a scene. You may start by photographing the back of the building or the front, but following the same process for every scene is important. Once you document one side of the building, determine if you need more photos to capture details like the conditions of windows and doors, utilities, and fire patterns.
Use sequential photographs to document these items and move on to the next side of the building. Photograph the corners for orientation and follow this process until the entire exterior has been photographed.
Interior Photographs
Photograph the point of entry before you enter the structure. Take enough photographs to document each room or area inside the building. Follow the same systematic process when photographing the interiors.
For each area, start by taking overall photos and take more photos to document the utilities, fire patterns, fire spread, and other details that may help the investigation. Use sequential photos for orientation and mosaic photographs to capture the entire areas of floors, ceilings, walls, and other damages.
Structural Photographs
Structural photographs help record any damage to the structure of the building after fire exposure. These photographs can help identify the evolution of the fire and may point to the origin. When recording structural photographs, it is recommended you include all possible exterior angles and views.
Take photos of the walls, roofs, windows, or any other structural failures. It’s also important to photograph any structural deficiencies or code violations because the fire travel may have been due to such deficiencies.
Appliance and Utility Photographs
Photograph the utility controls and entrances outside and inside the building. Include photos of electric and gas meters, gas regulations, circuit breaker panels, and any electric utility poles near the building that may be equipped with the transformer that serves the structure. Investigators should also take photos of the location of these meters and controls relative to the structure.
Take multiple photos of any gas appliances that may be in the area where the fire originated and the position of the controls on the appliances. Similarly, take photographs of the position of the panel’s schedule and circuit breaker handles. All electrical cords and outlets should also be photographed.
Evidence Photographs
Any fire investigation equipment items that may serve as evidence for the investigation should be photographed at the scene as well as later at the office for detailed views. In many cases, debris may be excavated at the scene. Several items may not be recognized as evidence in the debris. For such cases, it is important to take photos in an archaeological manner to ensure that the position and location of the item is documented.
A systematic approach here will ensure that the articles are recorded in the origin location and accurately show their condition. Evidence is crucial in court cases, and your photographs of these items may be very important in forensic fire and explosion investigation.
Victim Photographs
If there were any occupants, their location should be documented during the investigation. Photograph evidence of any action taken by these occupants. If the scene involves a death, the body should be photographed thoroughly. If there are any surviving victims, photographs of their injuries and clothing should also be recorded.
Witness Viewpoint Photographs
If there are any witnesses relevant to the investigation, they may provide testimony about what they observed from their vantage point. In such cases, investigators should take a photograph from their viewpoint. This helps orient the jury and the others involved in the investigation.
Aerial Photographs
Views from higher vantage points, such as from a helicopter or adjacent building, can often be helpful in learning more about fire spread. In such cases, aerial photography can be helpful. While it is expensive, it may be necessary in some cases to get help from an experienced aerial photographer.
What are the Challenges of Photographing a Fire Scene?
Photographing a fire scene presents several unique challenges, such as insufficient lighting and issues with camera settings. However, being aware of these can help you decide how to remedy them.
Large Areas
In many cases, you may have to investigate and photograph very large areas, such as warehouses. Using an external flash and manual mode on your camera can be helpful in such cases. Other tips include setting the aperture as large as possible, increasing the exposure compensation, and selecting the right shutter speed. You may need to try different settings on your camera to know how and when to use manual mode to photograph the scene properly, especially in arson investigation cases where large scenes require thorough documentation.
Inadequate Lighting
Perhaps one of the most common challenges investigators encounter is inadequate lighting. This is especially true when you’re photographing an interior wall and there’s a window that allows light in. Any patterns and evidence on the wall’s surface will be underexposed in such cases.
Burned areas also have poor reflective properties, so you may want to use artificial lighting in such cases. However, you’ll need a portable generator or another power source. Removable flash units are essential for investigators. This will allow you to operate the flash unit at the right angle to reduce reflection, highlight the texture of the damaged surfaces, and expose more depth perception.
Macro Photography Settings
Macro photography is commonly utilized in fire investigation forensic science for evidence inspections. This allows investigators to photograph evidence close up to highlight the important details. Most DSLR cameras today come with macro settings.
It’s important to use the right aperture setting for macro photography since the depth of field is very small. A small aperture ensures the right focus range in the photograph. However, lighting can be a challenge when using a small aperture. One option is to use a ring strobe flash that is specifically designed for macro photography. You can position the device at the end of the lens to ensure that the subject is adequately lighted.
Flash Position
DSLR cameras can be quite bulky, and having a larger flash attached to them can be an added challenge. When there’s an object between the subject of the photo and the flash, it may lead to underexposure or shadows in the photo.
You may have to reposition the camera to ensure the entire area has adequate lighting. With some cameras, you may also be able to use the flash remotely through a radio signal. This means you can remove the flash and hold it in the right position.
Fire Scene Photography Tips
There are several things you can do to ensure your fire scene photography is high-quality and accurately represents the scene:
When you arrive at a scene, start by taking a photo of an 18% gray card. Next, take a photo of a sheet with important information, such as the date and location.
Use a tripod when possible to avoid blurred photographs and make a high-quality mosaic pattern.
Purchase bulk film in multiple roll sizes so you’ll be able to load them into individual canisters and use as required.
Label the film canisters as soon as you finish using them for identification.
Use different rolls of film for each fire investigation. This will help you avoid mixing information about two different incidents.
Invest in good quality, longer-life battery packs. Always carry extra batteries with you when you go to a scene.
Invest in a basic photography course to learn more about the fundamentals of photography and to feel more comfortable about using the different settings on your camera, including the manual mode.
Understand the Fundamentals of Fire Scene Photography to Support Your Investigations
Understand the Fundamentals of Fire Scene Photography to Support Your Investigations
Fire scene photography is a crucial part of your investigation since it provides visual documentation that helps determine the cause and origin of the fire. It also serves as valuable evidence in court. With so many different types of cameras available, it’s important to spend some time learning more about how these work to determine which one will be the most suitable for you.
Take the time to understand the fundamentals of fire scene photography to improve the quality of your photographs. There are many online photography resources and courses available to help you improve your skills, which will ultimately support your investigative efforts.
When it’s time to log and document the details of your investigation, a case management software like Blazestack can help. The automatic photo log creator and the one-click report generation features can help you save time and effort.
FAQs
Why is taking photographs of a fire scene difficult?
Taking photographs of fire scenes can be challenging due to many factors:
Poor Lighting Conditions: Fires can create complex lighting situations, including dark smoke-filled areas and bright flames, making it difficult to capture clear images.
Rapid Scene Changes: As firefighters extinguish a blaze, the scene may change quickly, requiring investigators to adapt and document rapidly.
Large Areas: Fire scenes can cover extensive spaces, making it hard to capture the entirety of the scene without losing details.
Hazardous Conditions: Investigators must navigate potential hazards such as unstable structures, debris, and lingering smoke, which can complicate photography.
Emotional Impact: The emotional toll of a fire scene, especially if there are victims or significant destruction, can affect an investigator's focus and ability to document effectively.
How do you process a fire scene?
Processing a fire scene involves several important steps:
Scene Safety: Ensure the area is safe to enter. Conduct a risk assessment for potential hazards.
Documentation: Begin with a detailed photographic record, capturing wide shots, details, and evidence systematically.
Collect Evidence: Gather physical evidence, such as samples of burned materials or potential accelerants, and document their locations through photographs.
Mapping the Scene: Create diagrams or sketches that highlight key areas and evidence to complement your photographs.
Interviews: Speak with witnesses and firefighters to gather information about the incident and document their observations.
Final Analysis: After collecting evidence and documentation, analyze all materials to formulate conclusions about the fire's cause and origin.
When should a fire investigator take photographs?
A fire investigator should take photographs at various stages of the investigation:
Upon Arrival: Document the overall scene as soon as you arrive, capturing the initial conditions and any ongoing firefighting efforts.
During the Investigation: As you assess the scene, take photographs of critical areas, evidence, and any observations related to the fire’s cause and origin.
After Evidence Collection: Once the evidence has been collected, photograph the scene again to show the impact of the investigation on the scene.
Before Leaving: Capture any final shots of the scene to ensure a complete visual record of the incident.
