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Forensic
Photography
-for Criminology Students and Practitioners
Waynefred H. Villarba Ph. D. Crim.TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface
About the Author
Acknowledgment
Introduction
Table of Contents
Table of Figures
Cuarter I
Photography - definitions, historical
background ; and principles —
Definition of Terms
A. Photography, .
B. Police Photography”
C. Forensic Phoberaptiy’”
Historical Evolution of Forensic Photography
A. The basic components of photography
B. True Photography
C. Criminalistics Application
D. Legal Foundation of Photography Evidence
E. Criminology Education
The Principles of Photography
References
CHAPTER IT
Photographic Rays - Its Nature and Character i
A. Light
_ White light
Additive color mixture
Stibtractive color mixture
‘Production of colors
[Link] color
Iv
vil
ng
“vii
“2Bending of light
Kinds of object as to how they behave to light
Sources of Light .
Forensic Light Sources
References
CuapTer 3
Photographic Films and Papers
A. Black and White Films _
Characteristics of black and white films
B. Color Films
Types of color films
C. Photographic papers (Black and White)
“D. ce oBraphic papers for (Color "nining)
Reférerices
Carter 4
MONS >
Camera
. Camera
Camera Classification.
Methods of Image Formation
Lens.
.. Inherent Lens Defects or Aberrations
Types. of Lenses as according to their
. degree of correction to these lens aberrations
ST}
KR
.. Focal Length
. Types of Lenses as according to focal length
Lens Diaphragm
“ Photographic Perspective and Correct
» Viewing Distance
. Focusing
17
21
24
25
27
29
32
£O B8eEeRL. Methods of Focusing 52
M. Depth of Focus or Focus Range me 55
N. Parallax 56
O. ‘Shutters on 56
P. Exposure : 58
a. Exposure with flash
b. ‘On-camera flash
c. -Off-camera flash
d. Umbrella flash
e. Ring flash .
Q. Photographic Filters : ‘ 66
R. Camera Care 69
References 71
(CHapTEr 5
Photographic Printing and Chemical Processing
A. Chemical Processing ; 72
B. Film Processing : 73
C. Film Processing Procedure ~~ , 74,
D. Developer Formulation . 7
E. Stop-Bath mee 78
F, Fixing Bath Formulation 78
G. Photographic Printing 78
a. Conitact printing
b. “Projection printing or enlarging
H. Enlarging Procedure for’. °
Black-and-White Negative
Equipments for Paper Developing
Color Printing Process
a: Color film processing
b. Color printing
K. Color Compared to Black and White
a.. Problems in color photography
References
82
85
86
SeCuarrer 6
Application of Photography in Police Work
A. introduction - General Applications 95
Identification purposes
Recording and preserving of evidences
Discovering and proving of evidence
Recording action of offenders
Court exhibits
Crime prevention
Public information
Police training
PSNATE ON
B. Specific Aplications 100
_ 1. Ideritification photographs
"2. Crime Scene Photography
General consideration
Perspective/camera position
Lenses
Lighting
Marking the field of view
1. Rulers
2. Identification data
3. Location markers
f. Photographers Log
C. Specific Crimes 116
1. Homicide or Murder - General, Consideration
a. Crimes involving firearms
b. Hanging
c. Drowning
d. Electrocution
e. Explosion
2. Robbery case
3. Sex offenses
4. Arson or fire
5. Traffic/ vehicular accidents
Paap: 6. Articles of Evidence Ln phy bead
D. Surveillance Work Se bee saregn gs T37
E. Fingerprint Photography a 139
a. ess of fingerprints
Plain or black fingerprint on white background
White fingerprint on black or dark background
Black fingerprint on colored background
Black Fingerprint on Multi-colored Background
Fingerprints on Glass
Fingerprints on. papers ,
Fingerprints on Mirrors __
b. Equipment : -
F. Questioned Documents Photography, . oe 144
a. General use . :
NOopoNE,
b. Areas of photographic concerns . ae
G. Ultraviolet Photography ©. - 148
a. Reflected method. : ;
b. Fluorescence method —
c. Light sources
d. Forensic applications bot
H. Infrared Photography 152
a. Reflected Method
b. Luminescence method
References ; ae “457
CHAPTER 7 Coes -
Photographic Evidence — .
BASIC RULESON ADMISSABILITY | co . 159
A. Technique for Demonstrating Evidence, Prints, » 156
B. Degree of Enlargements . . sapene 161
C. Perspective/ Correct Viewing ‘Distance/ ee
Normal Viewing Distance er pecs e 162
D. TestifyinginCourt os 164
E. Point of Objections : / ~ 167E, “Misleading Photographs we 168
G.’ Photographs and Eyewitness Compared 177
L Failings common to both
Exaggeration :
Minimization
Elaboration
“Omission: :* :
“[Link] left or right.
Optical illusion” =< °"
2. Shortcomings of eyewitness
a. Perception error
b, Language problem
c. Memory lapse
~ d. :Hallucinations :
_ 3: Shortcomings of photographs :
“a. Single viewpoint
b. Compression of time
c. Necessity of interpretation by
uy
:
So ae op
a trier of facts ; oe
References : oo Je 197
CHAPTER 8
: Digital Photography
CAL Digital Cameras °° -. ‘ : 199
_“B.. Computer’ Printers. pel 202
C. Scanners JEN fe SG ee 205
D, Uses of Digital Photography. :
“in Law Enforcement © fe 206
“1. Automated Fingerprint :
“> Identification System (AFIS)
"2. Crime scene reconstruction
“3. Computerize facial sketching
4 Integrated ballistics identification system :E ‘Legal Foundation of Digital Photography 217
1. Rules on electronic evidence: . moe
2. Resolution of the International. “Association for
Identification (LAD
3. Guidelines for ensuring adsl of digital
+? photographs _ ‘S
References ep ks : : 223,le]
§
@
Auk WR:
‘rt
t
ag
G
e
oO
yx
we
“ry
we
. oS
&
o
0,
Figure .10-A
Figure .10-B
Figure. 12-A
Figure’ 12.8
Figure .12-C
Figure. 13
Figure 14-A
e-15-B
. LIST OF FIGURES
Cami mera obscura... -
The “Bashful. Model”
The prism
‘The additive color mixture
The subtractive
The different bending of °
light as it passes glass blocks
. Different kinds of flash units
Different studio/laboratory
light sources
Polilight machine and
its accessories
Diagram of image formation
of a color negative
Drawings of different
- camera designs and formats
Photograph of cameras with
different film format.
The parts of a’single-lens-reflex
(SLR) camera
A diagram of a convergent
or positive lens
Diagram of divergent
or [Link]
Diagram of a Kodak Ektar lenis :
Illustrations of the different lens
«defects or aberrations
Camera lens of different
focal length (side view)
Camera lens of different ~~”.
focal:length (quarter view)... °
The f-number indicator
on the lens mount
Illustrations of the different
diaphragm openingFigure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figuie
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
16-A
16-B
17
18-A
18-B
19
20
21
22
23-A
23-B
24
25
26-A
26-B
27-8
27-B
28-A
»28-B
29-A.
29-B
29-C
30
31
32
33-A
33-B
Figure 34
Figure 35-A
Photograph with a long’
or wide depth of field
Photograph with a
short depth of field
Scale bed:on a lens mount
Split-image focusing
Illustration of the split-i image :
focusing method
Shutter speed dial
Exposure or light ‘meter
Daylight developing tank and reels
Contract printers
A black and white enlarger
Acolor enlarger .:
The author doing enlarging work
A Sketch of a simple darkroom’:
A special identification camera
A “Graflex: identification camera
Close-up. lens
Extension tubes
Photomicrograph of bullet
Photomicrograph of a cartridge shell
Identification of a suspect
Identification of a civilian
Identification photograph of a Cadaver
Photomicrograph showing
a sequence of writings
Series of photographs of a crime scene
Photograph of a murder victim
Photograph of a victim of shooting
Photograph of an empty shell
and. bloodstains on the floor:
Photograph of a victim of‘drowning
Photograph of a'steel-safe
allegedty opened-with a
twisted paper clipFigure 35-8
Figure 36-A
Figure 36-B
Figure 87-A
Figure 37-B
Figure 38
Figure 39-A
Figure 40-A
Figure 40-B
Figure 40-C
Figure 40-D.
Figure 40-E
Figure 40-F
Figure 40-G
Figure 40-H
Figure 41-4.
Figure 41-B
Full view of showing the
contents of the steel safe
Photograph of a victim of. ..
sex offense-full view». :
Close up photograph:of the
victim showing the injuries’:
- Photograph of a suspected,
arson ~ partial burning ,
Total burning :
Photograph showing the
. location and position of
vehicles in a [Link]
Crime photographer taking
a photomicrograph of.a firearm
Tools and, paraphernalia,
recovered froma vehicle of
a robbery suspect
Key of an attaché case
A revolver found at a:scene
of a crime
Bullets and shells found at
the scene of a crime submitted
for ballistics examination
A kitchen knife used ina
stabbing case‘submitted for
blood: examination
Printing [Link] in...
counterfeiting P50.00 bill
Photograph of a printed
counterfeit dollar bills,
Photograph of a fully...
grown marijuana plants
Photographic surveillance
with the use of a night vision
Photographic surveillance
with the use of telephoto lens
124
125
“125
126
127
129
2182:
134
134
135
135.
135
136
136
136
137°
137Figure 42-A
Figure 42-B
Figure 43
Figure 44
Figure 45-A.
Figure 45-B
Figure 46-A
Figure 46-B
Figure 46-C
Figure 47
Figure 48-A
Figure 48-B
Figure 49-A
Figure 49-B
Figure 50-A
Figure 50-B
Figure 51
Figure 52-A
Photograph of a lifted
fingerprint (Questioned)
Photograph of a lifted *
fingerprint on a fingerprint
card (Standard)
Comparison chart of fingerprint
Photograph of a fingerprint
developed with white powder
on a frame of a handgun
Photograph of a cheque
taken with ordinary lighting -
procedure
Photograph of the same chequie
taken with sidelight or oblique
light clearly showing erasures «
Sidelighting shows indented writing
Is the date really Mar. or is it May?
Js the amount really $500.00" :
or is-it'$5.007
Photograph taken with
transmitted light
Diagram of reflected method
Diagram of fluoresceticé method
Photograph of a document
taken with visible light
Photograph taken tinder
ultraviolet rays showing
chemically erased writings ~
A P20.00 bill taken with visible light
Ultraviolet photograph shows ”
the invisible security: features
Infrared focusing marker
on a lens mount
Photograph taken with visible “ight
140
140
141
142
145
146
146
146:
146
147.
148
149
150
150
151
151
152
154Figure 67-C
Figure 68-A
Figure 68-B
Figure 68-C
Figure 69-A.
Figure 69-B
Figure 70-A
Figiure 70-B
Figure 71-A
Figure 71-B
Figure 72-A
Figure 72-B
Figure 73-A
Figure 73-B
Figure 73-C
Figure 73-D,
Figure 74,
Figure 75
Figure 76-A
Photograph of aismhall!™: «3 )::3':.-7
pencil that [Link] to:show +:
the size of the same object’ ¢=::
An underexposed photograph.
A normal exposed photograph: :
An overexposed photograph +:
Is this an aerial photograph
of a coastline of an'island?.. :
The preceding’ Photograph:(A)
was cropped from:this ::..5° 5 is
photograph during enlargement:
A bright light from the side.
produce a: shadow:in a-hole
showing its depth’ 2s."
The absence of shadow brought« 2
by flat lighting gives the...
impression of a level-ground ::'
Photograph of aman with an.
extended right hand?. :
Photograph of aman with §:- +!
an extended left hand? :s0:.. +.
Photograph: of a'skid mark «..:
curving tothe right? ;
Photograph of a skid mark. ’
curving to. the left? : Home
Optical illusion on form:
Optical [Link] light «
Optical illusion on length... ; . !:
Optical illusion on angle-: <>: :
or curvature x
Photograph showing the a AS
enlarged dot of a photographic:
screen used in publishing work:
Photograph. of a digital camera”
connected-to.a. computer-unit;
Bubble-jet printer
SSS
182
182
* 183
183
1840"
184
185.
185
186,
187 5°
188
2. 188
190
23190:
191
191
. 192
199°Figure 76-B
Figure 76-C
Figure 77
Figure 78
Figure 79-A
Figure 79-B
Figure 79-C
Figure 79-D
Figure 79-E
Figure 79-F
Figure 79-G
Figure 80--A
Figure 80-B
Figure 80-C
Ink-jet printer
Laser-jet printer
Photograph of flatbed scanner
Photograph of Automated: Fingerprint
Identification System
(AFIS) accessories
An actual photograph showing
a magazine of a firearm and
the position of the body of the victim
Another actual photograph
showing the gun and the.
body of the victim
A reconstruction photograph
showing the position of the
male and the female victim '
A reconstruction photograph
showing the trajectory of the
bullet that killed the male victim
A reconstruction photograph
showing the possible position
of another gunman,
if there was one
A reconstruction photograph
showing another possible
position of the gunman.
A reconstruction photograph
showing a third possible
position of the gunman
Photograph showing the
creation of facial features
of a person
Photograph showing composites
with different disguises :
Photograph ofa personbeing ,
searched on the database
209
209
210
210
211
a
212
. 213
214
214: Figure 80-C-1 Photograph of.a’person. being:
Figure 80-D
. Figure. 80-E
Figure 81
Figure 82-A
Figure 82-B
Figure 83-A __
“Figure 83-B
Figure 84-A:
“Figure 84-B
searched against criminal:
mugshot database
Photograph showing facial
reconstruction of a injured face’:
Photograph showing the
ageing process of missing-children
A computerized bullet
comparison ‘microscope »
compatible with IBIS:
Original photograph :of
the princess, crewmanand
Dodie, on a‘holiday taken
with a digital camera
A manipulated image. °
fromthe original photograph.
An original digital Photograph
of the Author’ ,
A manipulated digital
photograph of the original.
phowograph of the author:
A “fantasy” (composite)
photograph done-with °
the conventional film
based photography :
Another fantasy photograph
done in the same
photographic process
28.
215
216
217
219
219
221
221
222
222Puorocrapay — Derinitions , HisTorica
BacKGROUND AND PRINCIPLES
DEFINITION OF TERMS
e
A. Photography
1. Literal definition:
The word photography is a derivative of two Greek
words phos which means “light” and graphia meaning
“write”. Therefore photography best translates to “write
with light.” (Herschel 1839) 5
2. .Modern definition: :
Photography is an art or science which deals with
the reproduction of images through the action of light, upon
sensitized materials, with the aid of a camera and its
accessories, and the chemical processes involved therein.
(Aquino 1972)
3. Technical/Legal definition:
Modern photography may be defined as any means
for the chemical, thermal, electrical or electronic recording
of the images of scenes, or objects formed by some type of
radiant energy, including gamma rays, X-rays, ultra-violet
rays, visible light and infrared rays. This definition is broad
enough to include not only the conventional methods of
photography but almost any new process that. may be
developed. (Scott 1975) mo
B. Police Photography
Police Photography isan art or science which deals with.
the study of the'principles of photography, the preparation of
1photographic evidence, and its application to police work.
(Aquino 1972)
Cc. Forensic Photography - is the art or science of
photographically documenting a crime scene’and evidence
for laboratory examination and analysis for purposes of court
trial. (Redsicker 2001)
HISTORICAL EVOLUTION OF FORENSIC PHOTOGRAPHY
A. The Basic Components of Photography
1. Light - the days of cteation .
“In the beginning; God created the heavens and the
earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness
was over the surface of the deep, and the spirit of God was
hovering over the waters. , :
And God said, “Let there be light” and there was
light: God saw ‘the light was good, and he saparated the
light from the darkness. God’called the light “day”, and
~ the darkness he:called “night”.’ And there was evening,
and there was morining - The first day. (Genesis, chapter 1,
verses 1-3)
“2. Equipment (1700)
The ' portable
camera obscura (Latin
for dark chamber) was
ised by artist or
paiitters to get accurate
perspective of natural
scene anid scale of their
subjects.
FIGURE1
Cantera Obscura
(Courtesy of Eastman
Kodak)3,. Chemicals (1726 -.1777). :
Light sensitivity: of silver nitrate and silver: chloride
solution was discovered and investigated. In 1800 Thomas
Wedgewood and Humphey Davy produced photograms.
B. True Photography
1839 is generally known as the birth year of photography.
William Henry Fox [Link]:a process he had invented
(calotype) at the Royai Society of London.
The “Calotype” used paper with its surface fibers
impregnated with. Hight sensitive compounds.
Louis Jacques Mande Daguerre made a public demonstration
in. Paris “Daguerreotype” in collaboration. with Joseph
Nicephore Niepce. oe 5 be i
The “Daguerreotype” formed an image directly on nthe
silver surface of a metal plate. :
With Talbots “calotype,” the fixation was only partial
while Daguerre’s Daguerreotypes,.images were ‘made
permanent with the use of hypo.
- 1848 - Abel Niepce de Saint-Victor introduced a process of
negatives on glass using albumen (egg white) as binding
medium... :
1850 - Louis Desirie Blanquart-Evard introduced a printing
paper coated with albumen to achieve a glossy sutface:”
1851 -. Frederick. Scott Archer: -:publisheda “wet plate”
process when collodion - a viscous liquid thatdries. toa tough
flexible and transparent film-réplaced a albtumen. :
1885 ~ Gelatin entulsion printing paper » was 2 commercially
introduced based films-in 1889.’ : BoDuring this time; the cameras wére crude; the lenses
could not form a true image; and. the sensitive materials
required long exposures and could not ‘reproduce colors in
. shades of gray.
It was in 1856 when John F.W. Herschel coined the word
“photography”.
* 1861.4 James Clark Maxwell researched on ‘colors.
1890: - full corrected lenses were introduced.
1906 - a plate was placed on the market that could reproduce
all colors in equivalent shades of gray.
1907 -. Lummiere color process. was introduced, .a
panchromatic film was used but with blue, green, and red
filter. .
1914 - Uv. 8, “Lesean Kodak made:a color subtractive process
called Kodachrome.
1935 -folor process came out together with electronic flash.
1947 ~ Edwin if dan introduced “Polaroid” the one-step
photogra hy. + :
1960 - LASER was invented making possible Holograms (three
dimensional pictures).
1988. The arrival of true digital cameras.
The first true digital camera that recorded images as a
computerized. file was likely the Fuji DS-1P of 1988, which
recorded to.a16 MB internal memory card that used’a battery
to keep the data iti memory. This camera was never marketed
in'the USA. . The fist commercially available digital camera
was the 1992 Kodak DCS-100. It used a 1.3 megapixel sensorand was [Link] $13,000: The first Consumer camera. with a
: Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) on the’back was the Casio QV-
10 in 1995 and the. first camera to use compact flash was the
Kodak DC-25 in 1996.-.In [Link] Nikon D1 a 2.74 megapixel
camera was the first digital SLR with a price of under $6,000.
This camera also used Nikon F-mount lenses which meant that
film based Photographers could use the same lenses they
already own. In 2003'Canon introduced the 300D camera also
known as digital rebel, a 6 megapixel and the first DSLR priced
under $1,000 to consumers.
« Criminal Applications
.. “The. history of forensic scietwé and ‘criminal
investigation is both rich and exciting. The discoveries and
observations of our predecessors is: likewise surprising and
comforting. ‘The great men and women who:paved a path of
enlightenment in crime investigation continue to teach us long
FIGURE 2
“The Bashful Model” 18:
(Courtesy of Charles E.-O*hara).after their deaths. These are the aspifations that we should
aspire to endow. .We'are fortunate to work in a profession
with a strong foundation and a bright and seemingly efidlless
future.” (Thoriaas Ww. Adir, Editor ‘The scene’):
1854--"An Englishman, Maddox, developed ‘a dry plate
‘photography eclipsing Daguerte’s wet. plate on tin method.
This. made practical the photography of inmates for prison
retords.
1859 ~ In the United States, one of the earliest applied Forensic
Science was in photography. It was-used to demonstrate
evidence ina California case. Enlarged photographs of
signature walepresented i ina court case involving. forgery.
1864 - Odelbercht first advocate the use of photography for
the identification. of criminals: and the documentation of
evidence and crime scenes: .
Early photographs of accused arid arrésted pérsons
: Were. beautifully posed as example of the Victorian
‘photographers at 20 to 30 years. Later, every major police
force in England and the United States has.” Rogues’ galleriés”
full face, profile'and full body shot. :
Tn Europe and the United States had “Rogues Gallery”
(photograph of criminals) became an. integral Part almost all
police departments.
1882 - Alphonse Bertillion who initiated anthropometric
measurements:for personal identification was also irivolved
‘in various’ means of documentation by photography which
« developed into a fine science for criminalistics whenhe
photographed crimé.[Link] formulated: a technique: of
contact photography to demonstrate erasures on documents.
1902 - Dr. R.A. Reis, a German scientist trained in Chemistry
and Physics at Lausanne University in Switzerland. Hecontributed heavily to the use of photography in forensic
science and established the world’s earliest crime laboratory
that serviced the academic community and the Swiss police.
His interests included photography. of crime scenes, corpses,
and blood stains. He made a trip to Brazil in 1913 where his
experience in criminalistics was presented to the Western
Hemisphere for the first time.
1910 ~ Victor Baltazard developed a method of photographic
comparison’of bullets and cartridge cases which act as an early
foundation of the field of ballistics.
Victor Baltazard, Professor of forensic medicine at
Sorborne, used photographic enlargéments of bullets and
+ cartridge cases to determine weapon type and was among the
first to attempt to individualize a bullet to a weapon. ,
D. Legal Foundation of Photographic Evidence
- 1. For Black and White Photographs
1859 - Daguerreotype was used in a civil case, Lueo vs.
United States, 23 Howard 515 to decide on the authenticity
of photographs in comparing signatures.
1874 - In a criminal case introducing photograph as
identification evidence, Underzook vs. Commonwealth, 76
Pa. 340.
2. For Color Photographs
1943 - Civil litigations Green vs. City and [Link] Denver,
3 Colo..390 142 P.2 D.277 involving color photography of
spoiled meat in violation of a health ordinance prohibiting
the sale of putrid meat to the public.
1960 - Incriminal,case, State vs. Conte 157 Comm. 251 A.2d
81 showing the graphic wound of the victim.
7E. Criminology Education
_ 1902’ - Dr. R.A. Reis professor at the University. of Lausanne
Switzerland set up one ofthe first academic curricular in
forensic science. His Forensic Photography Department grew.
into Lausanne Institute of Police Science. . :
1950 ~ August Vallmer,.Chief of Police of Berkeley, Califonia
~ established the School of Criminology, at the University of
California, Berkeley. Paul Kirk presided ‘ove the major of
criminalistics within the school.
1954 -.In the Philippines, the school which pioneered
criminology education is the Plaridel Educational Institution
now the Philippine College of Criminology‘at 641 Sales St.,-
Sta. Cruz, Manila. :
THE PRINCIPLES OF PHOTOGRAPHY.
Different authors of photography books have -different
approach in explaining the principles of photography but to our
mind, the one expounded by Atty. Avelino Aquino in his book .
“Police Photography - its principles and ‘practice’ is the best
articulated.
-»A. photograph is the-mechanical and chemical result of
photography. “To produce-a photograph, light is needed aside
from sensitized materials. . :
Lights reflected or radiated by-a. subject must reach the
sensitized materials while all other lights must be excluded: The
exclusion of all unwanted and unnecessary lights is achieved by -
placing the sensitized: matérial inside'a camera.
Fhe amount of light on the sensitized. material after
exposure-is ‘not immediately visible to the eyes. ‘To:make the
formed image visible, it must undergo the development process.
The visual-effect that results from the chemical .processing is
8dependent on the quantity and quality of the exposing light. More
light will yield an opaque or black shade on the sensitized material
after development. Too little will produce a transparent or white
shade. The varying shade of gray will finally form the complete
image.10
REFERENCES:
Aquino, Avelino, Police Photography ~ Its Principles and
Practice, 1978
Eckert, William G. “Introduction to Forensic Science”, 24
Edition, CRC Press. 1997
Hilton, Ordway “Scientific Examination of Questioned
Documents”, Revised Edition, CRC Press, 1993
http:/ /[Link]/wiki/Digital_camera
Redsicker, David R. “The Practical Methodology of Forensic
Photography” 2" Edition, CRC Press, Washington
D.C. 2001
Scott, Charles C. “Photographic Evidence — Preparation and
Presentation”. Vernon Law Book Company, Kansas
City,Missouri, 1942
The New Student Bible Expanded and Updated,
Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids,
Michigan, 1997.
The Scene. Journal of the Association for Crime Scene
Reconstruction. Vol. 13, Issue 1 January to March
2007Puorograpuic Rays — Its Nature anp
CHARACTERISTICS
A: LIGHT
Light is one of a number of known form of radiant
electromagnetic energy which travel in wave motion, Actually,
there are other theories that explains the behavior of light (ex.
Quantum theory) but for our purpose, the wave theory is the
only one considered. This form of energy travels at a speed of
about 186,000 miles per second in air, but they differ in
wavelength and frequency. Wavelength is the distance from
the crest (highest point) to the wave to the next succeeding
crest while frequency is the number of waves passing ina given
point in one second. The product of the two is the speed of
travel,
The speed of the various radiant energy is constant ata
given medium, but varies with other media. For example, the
speed of light in ordinary glass is only about two-third of its
speed in air. Actually, it is only the wavelength that changes,
frequency remains constant. However frequency is much
more difficult to measure, wavelength could be determined
with accuracy. Hence, we identify a particular radiation by its
wavelength. Wavelength is measured by the angstrom. unit
or in terms of milli-microns (English system of measure) or
nonameter (metric. system of measure) which is equivalent to
one over one millionth of a millimeter.
The different energies in the electromagnetic spectrum
are the following: Cosmic tays, Gamma rays, X-rays,
Ultraviolet tays, visible light, Infrared rays, heat rays, Hertzian
waves, and the alternating current oscillations.
11The energies that [Link] of being recorded on
sensitized materials are the X-rays, ultraviolet rays, visible
light, and infrared rays. They are sometimes referred to as the
four photographic rays of modern photography. The
wavelength of X-rays is from 01 to 30 nanometers, Ultraviolet
rays from 30 to 400:nn, visible light from 400 to 700 nn, and
infrared rays from 700 to 1,000+ nn. Actually, the wavelength
of infrared rays extends beyond 2,000 nn but the longest
wavelength that the present sensitized materials (films) could
record is only up to this limit.
The ‘Webster Dictionary. defines light asa radiant
electromagnetic energy that can be seenby thenaked eye.-The .
scientific definition of light i is. the aspect. of radiant energy of
_ Whicha human observer is aware through the visual sensations
which arise from. the stimulation of the, retina of the eye.
“Lights rays witha wavelength of 400 to 7000 mnisreferred
[Link] visible light because it is only ‘within these wavelengths
that the human eye is capable of perceiving. Those with shorter
or longer wavelengths are commonly referred as invisible
tadiations. ‘ .
By definition all lights a are visil le. For this reason the
word ” “visible” is superfluous, int that common. expression
“visible light.” What the eye, cannot see are referred to as
radiations. :
“Light energy has several effects o onan object. It is either
/ jeflectod, absorbed, transmitted or converted, The varying
12
combinations of this reflectance and absorption are what gives
us the wide variety of colors:which we are able to perceive, at
times, other light are neither reflected or absorbed but is
transmitted through the object. This transmitted light passing
through the object. and allows a viewer onthe other side of the
object to perceive | these light waves,The final effect a radiant energy may have on an object
is to be converted to another wavelength, This conversion is
» known as luminescence. There are two types of luminiscence:
the flourescence and phosphoresce:
Flourescence is’ the ability of an'object to convert one
wavelength to another as long as the active energy source is
irradiating the object: . - :
In phosphorescence the ‘object not only converts the
“wavelength while being irradiated: but continuous to reflect
the new wavelengths for a’period of time after the energy
source is removed.
White Light
When alt the wavelengths between 400-700 nanometers are
presented to the eye in nearly equal quantity, we get the sensation
or perception of colorless or white light. If a natrow bearn of white
light is allowed to pass through a prism it ‘will bend the light of
shorter wavelength more than those with longer wavelength thus
spreading them Out into'the visible spectrum. These are the colors
of the rainbow - the red, orange, yellow, green, blué,indigo, violet.
IGURE3
The prism breaks its
white lightin its
different wave-
‘length producing
the colors of the
rainbow.
(courtesy of Eastman
Kodak)
13.. lf we divide the wavelength of visible light (400-700 nano.)
equally into three (from 400 to 500 nano., from 500 to 600 nano.,
and from 600 to 700 nano.) we will produce. blue, green, [Link]
colors. These are known as the three primary colors of light as
differentiated from the three primary colors of painis, dyes, and
coloring matters ‘which are’'the blue, yellow, and red.
Additive Color Mixture
If we get three projectors with. beams of lights. projecting
individually blue, green and red and have the three beams overlap
over the other, we will [Link] the portion where the blue and
green lights merged over the other, it will produce a cyan color,
the green and red lights a yellow color, and the red and blue lights
a magenta color. At the center where the blue, green and red light
were combined in proper ratio, we see white light. In this aspect,
cyan, yellow, and [Link] known as the three secondary colors
of light, For practical purpose, white is the presence of all colors
while black is: the absence of all colors or the absence of light.
_ FIGURE4 .
Additive Color Mixture -.
(Courtesy: of Eastman’ Kodak)
14 SaneSubtractive Color Mixture
This time, the light beams of the three projectors will be
covered each with cyan filter, yellow filter, and magenta filter and
have the beams of light projected one over the other. The cyan
filter will transmit blue and green light but absorbs red from white
light. A yellow filter will transmit green and red light but absorbs
blue from white light. Similarly, a magenta filter will transmit
FIGURE5
The Subtractive Color Mix-
ture
(Courtesy of Eastman Kodak)
" red and blue light but absorbs green from white light. At the
center where the three beams of light are merged together will
produce black. In simple terms, cyan is the complementary of
red, yellow is the complementary of blue, [Link] is the
complementary of green.
The range of colors which can be produced by subtractive
mixture of three dyes is quite large and makes it possible the
modern processes of color photography which depends on the
subtractive principle.
Production of Colors
There are a number of different ways in which color is
produced. One need to know the variable quantities of color so it
will be possible to evaluate color as quality.
1816
1. Absorption
The color of most ordinary objects are due to the
fact that they do not absorb the same amount of light at
each wavelength, :
Scattering
The color of the blue sky is due to the scattering of
light by the atmosphere. Variation in the density of the
atmospheric gases act in such a Way that they scatter light
_ of the shorter wavelength at the blue end of the spectrum
much more they scatter light of the longer wavelength of
the red end of the Spectrum, Thus the sky is bluest when it
is clearest, and white:when it is less clear.
. Interference
[Link] also be produced by interference of light
“Waves in thin film like in soap bubbles or a film of oil
floating in water. ‘The light reflected from the top surface
of such a film undergoes a reversal or phase but the light
reflected from the bottom surface does not undergo this
type of change. This phenomenon is also responsible for
the color pattern known ‘ag “Newton's ring” which
sometimes cause trouble in color printing work.
» Flourescence
This happens when molecules of the fluorescent
material absorb energy at one wavelength and radiate it at
another waveléngth.
. Dispersion —
Color may arise from differences in the refractive or
bending power ofa transparent medium of light of different
wavelength. The rainbow is a good example of this
phenomenon.Attributes of Color
According to the modern scientific definition of color, it is
not legitimate to ascribe color to an object but only to the light
reflected from it.. Thus any. color perception has three
characteristics, any one of which can be varied independently of
the othey,two. These are hue, saturation, and brightness.
Bending of Light
When travelling in open space, light travels in straight line.
However, when light comes in contact with an. object, it may be
bended in the following manner.
FIGURE6
REFLECTION OF LIGHT TRANSMISSION OF LIGHT
Object absorbs green and Filter absorbs green and
blue, looksred. blue, looks red.
REFRACTION
‘The different bending of light as it presses through glass blocks.
(Courtesy of Eastwian Kodak)Reflection - is the deflection or bouncing back of light
when it hits a surface.
a. Regular reflection - happens when light hits a flat,
smooth and shiny surface. :
b. Irregular or diffused reflection - occurs when light
hits a rough or uneven but glossy object.
Refraction - the bending of light when passing from one
medium to another.
Diffraction - the bending of light when it hits a sharp edge
of an opaque object.
Kinds of object as to how they behave to light.
1.
Transparent objects - allows sufficient visible light to pass
. through [Link] the [Link] the other side may be
_ dearly seen,
Translucent objects - allows light to pass, however diffuse
it sufficiently that objects on the other side may not be
clearly distinguished. In some cases the objects on the other
side may be recognizable but sharp detail and outline are
obscured,
Opaque objects - so greatly diffuse the light that
recognizing the object on the other side is very difficult if
not impossible.
Sources of Light
18
1
Natural light source - those coming from nature like the
sun, moon, stars, other heavenly bodies, lightning, fire; etc,
While-all of these sources could now be used for
photographic use, for practical reasons, the discussion will
be limited to sunlight only. With sunlight there are actually
several sources. Primarily those coming directly from the
sun, secondarily those being reflected by clouds or the sky.
The intensity of sunlight falling on an object in open space
varies depending on the weather condition, time of the day,or even time of the year. For a more accurate exposure
setting at daylight, only one characteristic is considered -
the kind of shadow casted by an object in open space.
1. Bright sunlight - a lighting condition where objects in
open space cast a deep and uniform or distinct shadow.
2. Hazy sunlight - objects in open space cast a transparent
shadow.
3! Dull sunlight - objects in open space cast no shadow.
a. Cloudy bright - objects in open space cast no
shadow but objects at far distance are clearly visible.
b. Cloudy dull - objects in open space cast no shadow
and visibility of distant objects are already limited.
. Artificial light source
Light sources of this category are man-made [Link]
divided into the continuous radiation and the short
duration.
a, Continuous radiation are those that can give
illumination continuously. The common light source
of this kind are the fluorescent lamp, incandescent
lamps, carbon arc lamp, photoflood lamp, gas lamp,
ete,
b. Short duration (Flash unit)
A flash unit gives a brief flash of light produced
by a burning metallic wire (flash bulb) or an electrical
discharge through a gas-filled tube (electronic flash).
At this time, the flash bulb is no longer available in the
market but the electronic flash remains very popular.
The electronic flash offers a great light output in
a compact, lightweight and economical form. It does
not have the effect of heat and glare during setup that
19are common with continuous light sources. Because it
is battery-powered, itis most convenient for field work
“where AC current is not available. Like any other
artificial source, flash units allows the photographer to
control the direction; quality and intensity of light to
achieve the desired result.
FIGURE?
A. Different kinds of flash units
B. Different studios/laboratory light
including an umbrella reflector
20Forensic Light Sources
1. Ultraviolet lamp
Ultraviolet lamps used in forensic work come in
variety of shape, sizes, and power. Some units are portable
battery operated and are easily carried and can meet the
yugged and rigorous demand for field work,
The ultraviolet radiation is broken down into the
long wave U.V., the medium wave U.V. and the short wave
U.V. The long wave UV is used in a wide variety of
applications in medical’ and forensics, The. medium wave
UV is often used in chemical analysis and in curing and
hardening of different. items for indusirial applications.
The short wave UV is used for variety of purpose‘such as
to sterilize air and place of work. It is an effective
germicide, destroying many biological contaminants.
2. LASER - Light Amplification through Simulated Emission
of Radiation
Although developed years earlier it was in 1970's
that it was discovered ‘that by illuminating certain items
with LASER, they would flouresce or could be made to
stand out in sharp contrast from their background. ' This
was especially significant in locating dried biological stains
such as semen, urine and saliva, as well as stains that had
been washed. The LASER stimulation of these items,
provided a way for the criminalist to finally see, locate,
and visually record evidence that they know that they had
been missing. The only drawback of LASER is their cost,
they are quite expensive. LASER [Link] known as coherent
light.
211
3. Alternative Light Source (ALS)
The Alternative Light Sources was developed in mid
1980's as a far more inexpensive alternative to forensic
LASER. The ALS uses a variety of band pass filters to
Provide ahigh intensity beam of non-coherent light. These
multiple band pass filters allows the Operator to match the
LASER frequency available at crime scene, . Additional
wavelength were included to allow the ALS to Operate in
» the UV, near UV, and IR spectrum. ALS technology had
advanced toa point whereby using the combination of filter
FIGURES .
Polilight machine. including its accessories:
Goggles and Photographic filters.
‘and ‘an adjustable iris to control'the width of the
‘transmission band, various wavelength from UV to'IR may
be digitally selected. This allows the operator to scan an
almost endless variety of wavelength instead of being
restricted to the specific band pass filter capabilities,
ae!
7
4. Forensic Light Sources (FLS)
The [Link] a term being applied to a wide v: iety of
relatively inexpensive light sources which use filtered
luminiscient fingeprint powder which also falls within the
strobe shift of most biological powder. This will enable a
criminalist to search latent fingerprints of rough surfaces,
The white light source used with the FLS is as simple as a
maglight type handheld flashlight or a spotlight with the1999
REFERENCES:
Evans, R., “An Introduction to Color,” John Wiley &
Sons; New York; 1948 .
‘Bastman Kodak Company, “Color as seen and
photographed,” Kodak Handbook,'1959 -
‘ :
“Forensic Light Sources,” Naval Crimitial Investigation
Service, Death Investigation Division Training Manual,
“Geman, E., “Laser Powers and Their Applications,”
Laser Sonics Operational Publication, Coopet Laser
Sonics, II., June.1985
Manzel, E., “Lasers in Physical Eviderice Examination,”
‘Laser Topics ~ March 1986 ,
Omnichrome Inc., “Evidence Developed Using Forensic
Light Sources,” a training manual of Omnichrome Inc.,
Chino, Ca., 1987
Webster Universal Dictionary and Thesaurus, Tomonet
Publications Inc.; Canada 1993Puorocrapmic Firms an’ Papers
A. BLACK AND WHITE FILMS
‘
emulsion, §ray or anti-halation backi
1. Emulsion
basically made up of
A black and white ‘film is
ing, and a support base,
Photographic emulsion consist of crystals of light-
sensitive compounds (silver nitrate) evenly distributed
throughout plastic base material.
are universally sensitive to
Silver halide emulsions
some wavelengths of blue
the ultraviolet radiations and
light. They can be made sensitive to other colors of light
and the near infrared radiation by the addition of special
sensitizing dye. Gelatinis universally used as the medium
that holds the crystals in emulsion,
- Gray or antihalation backing
This layer is placed between the emulsion and the
plastic base of a film to prevent whatever light that passes
through the emulsion and reflected by the base back to the
emulsion which forms a “halo,”
My
Base
Generally film base are made of plastic material,
¥ serve as a support to the emulsion
25Characteristics of B & W Films
The characteristics of a B & W film are speed (sensitivity to -
light), spectral (wavelength or color) sensitivity and granularity
or graininess.
Although films are universally manufacture in about the
same way, there are controlled variations in procedure, choice
and préportion of chemicals used in processing films of different
characteristics.
1. Emulsion speed
The different indicators of emulsion speed are as
follows:
a. ASA (American Standards Association) rating. This
is expressed in arithmetical value.
b. DIN (Deutche Industri Normen) rating, which is
expressed in logarithmic value. |
c. ISO (International Standards Organization) rating.
This is expressed in the combined arithmetical and
logarithmic values.
The different emulsion speed ratings are:
ASA 12 DIN 12° IsO: 12/12
ASA 25 DIN 15° ISO 25/15
ASA 50 DIN 18° IsO_ 50/18
ASA 100 DIN 21° ISO. - 100/21
ASA 200 DIN 24° ISO - 200/24
ASA 400 DIN 27 IsO 400/27
ASA 800 DIN 30° IsO 800/30.
ASA 1600 DIN 33° , 180 1000/33
In the market, ASA 100 commonly referred to as the
Plus X, the ASA 200 as the double X, and the ASA 400 as
the Tri-X.
262. Spectral sensitivity
The. different classificati
il sensitivity are:
ms as according-to
a.’ Blue sensitive film - sensitive to ultraviolet rays
and blue light only.
b; Orthochromatic film ~ sensitive to ultraviolet rays
and blue light only.
<¢.:Panchromati¢ film
sitive to ultraviolet
radiation to blue, green, a ed: light or all colors.
d. Infra-red film - sensitive to ultraviolet rays, to blue,
‘green red light « and infraréd-rays.
3. Granularity or graininess |
.. This refers. to the size of the meiallic silver giains
- [Link] ‘formed: after development | exposed film.
_. Generally, the sizeof metallic silver graifis are dependent
- on-the-emulsion ‘speed of the: film and the. type: cof
developing solution that is used in processing. The rule
. isthe lower the emulsion speed rating of the film, the
finer is the grain-and conversely, the higher the emulsion
speed rating of the film, the [Link] the grains. Likewise,
a film developer will. produce a finer grain than a paper
developer when:used for film processing.
B. COLOR FILMS
A calor films a multi-layer emilsion ‘coated on the
same support or base. .The top emulsion is sensitive to blue
“he light only. Since green and red light passés through it without
effect, the blue light alone makes the exposure. A yellow filter
layer above the middle emulsion absorbs any unused blue
light and prevents-it from reaching the two lower emulsion
layer. The yellow color in the filter layer have no permanent
effect'on the appearance of the film because. it is destroyed
during processing. The midclle emitilsion is sensitive to green
light but not to red light. ‘Like all emulsions, the middle layer
is also sensitive to blue light but the blue light cannot reach it.
a7
‘8HO o>
GAY
ae §
pee
nt @
bb Sh rs
pet “Bb
“eb
The exposure in this layer is therefore made b
alone. The bottom layer is [Link] red
sensitivity to green light is so low as to be ne
FIGURE9
Diagram of an image formation of a color negative.
(Courtesy of Eastman Kodak) :
Image Formation in. Color
fe Negative Film :
Original. subject, represented
schematically by color patches,
ght alone. These
base which has an
Cross section of color negative
lm, Silver halide grains exposed.
the camera have. been
| Cross section of color negative
p film after ihe silver grains have
been bleached, .
* Residical color couplers.
the exposure in this layer is made by red li
three emulsion layers are coated ona film
anti-halation backing.
1. Types of color films
“Color negative.
28BO Negative or non-reversal film
The suffix(’color” js given to negative or non-
reversal. film. This-film yields either a negative or a
positive image depending on how itis used. Examples
are: Kodacolor, Fujicolor, Agfacolor, etc.
b. Reversal film
The suffix “chrome” is applied to reversal
material. This film when processed a positive image
or transparency for projection viewing. Examples are:
Kodachrome, Ektachrome, Fujichrome, Agfachrome,
etc.
Like the B & W films, color films also have
emulsion speed with the same indicators (ASA, DIN,
ISO) and the same ratings. :
Films whether B & W or color comes ina variety
of sizes and number of exposures.
: « \For sizes, there are 8mm., 16 mm., 135 mm., 120
‘mm, 127 mm for roll films and the 2-1 /2" x
3-1/2", 4" x5" x7", 8" x 10", 11"x 14" and 16" x24"
for sheet films.
For number of exposures, there are 12 exposures,
24 exposures and the 36 exposures.
C. PHOTOGRAPHIC PAPERS (BLACK AND WHITE)
Modern photographic papers are basically composed
of a light sensitive coating (emulsion) on a paper base)or
support. The emulsion suspended on a gelatin is generally
made of silver halide salts. To withstand the rigors of soaking
in chemical solutions and water during processing and
—_— 2930
as well as the variety-of degree in humidity and
perature, the base is made of wood pulp.
“I. Characteristics of a photographic paper
a. Emulsion speed
1.
‘
2.
3.
Chloride paper ~ has a slow speed and is suited for
contact printing. :
Bromide paper ~ has a fast speed and is
recommended for projection printing or enlarging.
Chloro-bromide paper - isa multi-speed and could
be used in both contact printing and enlarging.
The contrast of an emulsion also affects the
printing speed. For some papers the lighter the contrast .
grade, the slower the speed.
b, Exposure and development latitude
‘can deviate:
Latitude-js thg degree or amount of which you
ideal exposure or development
88 Of print quality.
1. Exposure latitude
‘ Generally, photographic papers do not have
a wide exposure latitude so exposure must be
critical at all times. :
2. Development latitude
Papers that do not change appreciable in
contrast and image tone with reasonable
variations in development has a good latitude.
However, for best quality the developing time
should be as near as those prescribed by the
manufacturer.CG
Contrast range or grade
In black and white printing, it is often necessary.
to adjust the paper contrast so they can ‘yield a natural-
scene result from negatives with density range that are
either too high or too low. Some papers are available
in several contrast range or grade while others have
built-in contrast control effected by the use of a filter on
the enlarging lens or on the énlarger light source.
In most photographic papers, the contrast range
or grade are indicated by numbers ~ numbers 0 to 5.
1.
2.
3.
Numbers 0 and 1 are used ‘on over-exposed or
low contrast negative.
Numbers 2 are used on normal exposed or
-normal contrast negatives.
Numbers 3 to 5,used in under-exposed or high
contrast negatives.
(d. Physical characteristics
Under this category, photographic papers comes
in different surfaces base thickness or weight and color.
ae
oy | [Link] photographic papers vary in surface
texture or degrees gloss or sheen. They are the
glossy and smooth, semi-matte or silk, and the
matte'or the rough surface.
Base weight or thickness
Under this category, we have the light weight,
single weight, medium weight, and the double
weight.
“Color maybe “cold” or white with a very slight
blue cast, and the “warm” or “cream” where the
white has a slight yellow-brown line.
31D. PHOTOGRAPHIC PAPERS. FOR COLOR PRINTING -~ are
essentially similar to the film used in the camera except that
the emulsion layers are coated on.a paper: base and contain
couplers which, are colorless. Colored couplers are not used
because the print would then be unsuitable for direct viewing.
Printing a. negative in complementary colors-on a non-
reversal print reverses both the tone scale and the color of the
negative. Thus, the final result is a:positive reproduction
within the accuracy limits of the photographic processes of
_.,,the tones and colors of the original subject.
32.
Photographic papers -— both color and black-and-white
are supplied in rolls or sheet in varying lengths or sizes.REFERENCES:
Encyclopedia of Practical Photography
Edited by and Published for Eastman Kodak Company
AMPHOTO - American Photographic Book Publishing
Company, Garden City, New York, USA; 1979
Encyclopedia of Practical Photography. Edited by and
‘ Published for Eastman
Kodak Company. AMPHOTO - American
Photographic Book Publishing Company. Garden
City, New York, USA. 1979
Film - Volume 6, Pp. 956-959, 1055-1058
Papers - Volume Il, pp. 1853-1860
’ Kodak Color Films, Eastman Kodak Company, Fourth
Edition, 1961.
33CAMERA
A. Camera - is a light-tight box; with a lens to form an image;
with a shutter and diaphragm to control the entry of the image;
a means of holding a film to record the image /and a viewer
or viewfinder to show the photographer what the image is.
B. Camera Classifications:
Camera are classified as according to:
1. The size of the film they use or format of the picture they
produce. .
* a. Large format cameras
These cameras have bellows and use sheet films in
the size 4"x5", 5"x7" and 8"x10"
b. Medium format cameras
Some of these cameras are folding type with bellows
and some are rigid-body with film size of 120, 220,
70mm. The double lens reflex camera falls under
this category.
c. Small format cameras
Those with film size 126, 110, 35 mm., 16mm, and 8
mm.
2. The viewing/focusing system
a. Those with focusing mechanism at the back of the
camera.
Neb.... Those with optical viewfinder.
Medluretormiat’
Singte-long reflex
A
Twin-ons reflex”
RIGIO-BODY_ DESIGNS
35 rin 1924
BELLOWS DESIGNS
onanl 7)
Monerail téchnicaiview
FIGURE10-A
Camera Evolution (Courtesy of Eastman Kodak)
35FIGURE 10-B
Photograph of cameras with different film format
Nomenclature :
" Stuater Dist A remem IO,
Fien Avance trier : ote cee tue Syne Contact
[AE Set Pin tor BE Fiexter FN 2 omc Aecussory Stive
Fin Rewand Lever : Pinder Reioasa Burton
‘Settsumar Lock Lever : : “+8 “Remind Crank,
w= Rawend Kn
~ Eapoeire Cernpensavion Ota
Action np.
tWattery Crienbar Cover oe sr" Safety Steppe
RE Vath Pit neon ne er “_. Exposure Compensation
‘Lock Release Button
Stop-sown Sie i —— Mamnination Window
‘nooenesnoee Battery Chick Hutter
Depth-of-Feld Seate wd f . Ne Posto ane
Fe USiNg 19g ne i So Boyoser
FIGURE 11
The parts of a single-lens reflex camera SLR
(courtesy of Nikon Camera Corp}3, Overall design and functions
a. View camera
.. System cameras
Its rigid body design accepts a wide variety
of lenses, viewers, film backs, and accessories
(hundreds of them) can be attached or inte
adapt to scientific, technical, arc
hitec
astronomical, underwater, and many other kinds of
photography.
Example of this type is the single-lens reflex camera.
c. Digital cameras
This type of camera digitalize the image
which can then be put into a computer and enhanced
through a software package such as Adobe
Photoshop.
There are two types of digital cameras:
1, Those with fixed memory
This camera has 4 limited number of
imageitcan capture. The user will then be for
to erase the image or download it into a
computer.
2. Those with removable memory
This camera allow the user tol
replace a variety of storage cards in much the
same fashion as film is exposed and replaced
witha new film. Removable media varies in size,
in price, and compatibility with computers and
other cameras.Other features of a digital camera:
1.
6.
Images. produced or taken by a digital camera
can be viewed in. a computer monitor or T.V. set.
For hard copies of such image a computer printer
is used,
A Liquid Crystal Device (LCD) monitor
Digital “point and shoot”. camera sometimes do
not have an optical viewfinder, These camera
feature a color LCD screen on the camera back
or one that can be swing on the side which serves
multiple duty as viewfinder, control panel, and
instant playback monitor.
Flash unit - although generally not necessary
but is required for back lighted subjects or ina
really low light level: '
Zoom lens capability - wide-angle, normal,
telephoto, even macro.
Sound recording ~ where you can record audio
chips suchas short description of the image taken ~
or noise in the surrounding area.
Removable lens that can see around corners.
This simplest type of camera is the box type, also
commonly referred to [Link] Instamatic, or the newer
generation “point and shoot” cameras. With this type of
camera, all you need to do is to open its back, load the film,
close the back, wind the film then take the’ picture. There are
no exposure and focusing control to adjust because it is fixed
focused, with fixed shutter speed, and a fixed lens or
diaphragm opening.
38In forensic photography, the most ideal camera type to
use is the single-lens-reflex (SLR) camera. It is light in weight,
compact, and versatile. It has the capability of
interchangeability of lenses and a wide range of accessories
" can be attached to its body, like extension rings or tubes, flash
units, filters, cable release, motor drive, remote control, etc.,
for better photographic efficiency and effectivity.
C. Methods of Image Formation
1. Pinhole - is a small or tiny hole which produces an image
entirely free from distortion but its image is so dim that it
is impractically long even if the fastest film is used. It is
also not practical to enlarge the hole for more light because
the larger the hole, the more blurred is the image.
2. ‘Shadow method
Image formed by this method is simply the shadow
of an object. The chief of application of this method is in X--_
ray photography and in making photograms.
3. Lens method
FIGURE 12
A. Convergent or positive lens
39 |» Gy Diagram of 4 Kodak Ektar Lens with several lens components
This is the best method of image formation because
it is capable of forming a sharp image even witha large
opening so, itis suited for a:camera. oat
D. Lens
A lens is a transparent medium which either converge .
or diverge light rays passing through it to. [Link] image.
Generally, there are two types of Tenses;.
1. The: convergent of positive or convex Jens.
This lens is always thicker atthe center and
thinner at the sides. Light passing through it are bended
toward each other on the other side of the lens meeting
. ata point. It produce arealt image on the opposite side
\ of the lens or where light is coming from.
2. The divergent, negative, or concave lens
' This lens “is always thinner at the’center and
thicker at the sides. Light passing through it are bended
away ftom ‘each other as if coming from a point. It
produce a virtual i image on the sare side of the lens or
where light is coming from.E, Inherent Lens Defects « or Aberrations
The ideal lens for forensic photography would be
capable of producing critically sharp and distortion-free
image. Some other lenses are unfit for the preparation of
photographic evidence because they: have optical defects
known as aberrations. They are the following:
1,‘ Spherical aberration,
When light passing through near the central part of
aconverging lens are bended more sharply than those rays
falling in the edge, thus the rays coming from the edges
are focused on a plane nearer the lens than those coming
from the central part.
: Manufacturer of lensés tries to reduce this defect to
a negligible quantity by using lenses of different
curvatures, =.
2. Coma
This is another form of spherical aberration. but is
concerned with the light rays entering [Link] obliquely.
The defect is ; noticeable only on the outer edges and not on
the central part of the lens. If a lens has. coma, circular objects
.teproduced at the corners of the negative are comet-like
form. Just like. the spherical aberration, it is reduced by
combinations of Jenses of different curvatures.
3. Curvature of field.
This is a kind of defect where the image formed by
a lens comes to a sharper focus in a curved surface than a
flat surface. The correction of this defect ‘is similar to
spherical aberration and coma.
IFIGURE 13
Illustration of the different lens aberrations.
Lib AF Se Se
CURVATURE OF FIELD
4. Distortion
_ A lens with distortion is incapable of rendering
‘straight lines correctly; either horizontal or vertical lines in
an object: This is caused by the placement of the
. diaphragm. ‘If the diaphragm is placed infront of the lens,
straight lines near the edges of the object tends to bulge
‘outside. This is known as the barrel distortion.” If the
diaphragm is placed behind of the lens, straight lines near
the edges tends to bend inward. This is known as the pin-
cushion distortion. Distortion is remedied by placing the
diaphragm in between the lens component and the two
opposite distortions will neutralize each other.
5. Chromatic aberrations
This defect is the inability of the lens to bring
photographic rays of different wave lengths to the samefocus. Ultraviolet rays are bent the most while’ infrared
rays are bent the least when they pass through the lens.
: Visible light come to’a' focus at Varying ‘distances. This
. défect'is ‘reduced by utilizing compound lenses’made up
of single lens made tip of glasé of different curvatures.
6. Astigmatism’ ” eee
» With this defect;a single paint froma subject falling
near the margin of the negative will be imaged .not as a
point but as'a two perpéndicular short lines; one of which
is always be out of focus while the other is'sharp.’ This
defect is lessened by combining lenses of special kind of
glass having the correct combinations of spherical surfaces.
“7. Chromatic difference of magnification
“ This"defect is preset when the size’ of image
produced by photographic’ rays of One wave length is
different fromthe size produced by another. Size of the
image increases as the wavelength ‘of the't rays decreases.
Incolor photography it produce a rainbow colored fringes
around the edges of objects while in black and white
photography it appears ; asa ‘slight t blue.
Most of these ‘aberrations éannot be eliminated but
each one of them can be réduced to‘a level that its truth
bearing quality for evidence use is legally acceptable.
F. Types of Lenses'as ‘According to thet Degree of Correction
to these Lens ‘Aberrations .
1, Acrhromatic lens-is conrected for chromatic aberration.
2." Rapid-rectillinear lens ~ is corrected for distortion.
3. Anastigmat lens ~ is corrected for astigmatism as well
vas the other'lens defects, © 7"
» 4. “Apochromat lens ~ is also cortectéd for ast pmatism ‘but
with higher degree of correction to colot.’
43
epicsG. Focal Lenigth
A tundamental characteristics ofa lensis: its, focal length.
This will determine the size of an image of an object ata given
distance, and the area of coverage of the lens.
Focal length is the distance measured from the optical
center of the fens to the film plane when the lens is set or focused
_ at infinity position or far distance.
Focal distance - is the distance from. the optical: center of the
lens to the film plane. :
H. ‘Types of Lenses as According to Focal Length
1. Wide angle lens ~ a lens with a focal length of less than
the diagonal of its negative material. This lens will have
‘a wide. area of coverage but produces a small image
size. This is usually,used in taking pictures indoor or
inside a small room. It is also, used outdoor to get a
panoramic view [Link],
2. Normal lens - is a. lens with a focal length
approximately equal: or more but: not [Link] twice
the diagonal of its negative material. It is referred to as
normal because its coverage corresponds to nearly the
coverage of the human eye. f
3. Telephoto lens - is a lens with a focal length of more
than twice the diagonal-of its negative material. This
lens produces a bigger i image of objects at far distance
but its area of coverage is smaller.
4. Zoom lens ~ is a lens with variable focal Jength.
The focal. length of a lens i is normally indicated i in the
lens mount or barrel of a. camera, usually in millimeter (mm)
or in centimeter (cm)..°
44FIGURE 14-4 :
“Camera lenses of different focal length side view
(Courtésy of Nikon Camere).
45FIGURE14-B
Camera lenses of different focal length
(courtesy of Nikon Camera)L_ Lens Diaphragm
In between the lens component of a:camera is a metal
diaphragm which cain be expanded or constricted by moving
a turning ting-on the lens mount or ‘barrel... The size of the
‘opening is indicated by markings of f-humbers. Each f-number
tepresents. the ratio ‘of the focal length of the lens and’ the
djameter of the opening. The common series'of f-numbers are
1.8, 2, 2.8, 4, 5.6, 8, 11, 16 and:22. There are some cameras
whose 'f-numbers starts at 1.4 or 1:2, or 1.1and the lowest
numerical f-number was the 1.09 fitted ona Canon’7 camera.
These f-numbers indicate in: succession, decrease by
one-half in light intensity as the number increases. This means
that an aperture of £1.8 will admit twice more light than 2 and
soon. Conversely; light intensity will decrease by one-half as
_ the numerical value increases. This also means that £8 will
admit twice less light than £5.6. :
The diaphragm serves as controller of speed, depth of
field and definitions. 4
1. Diaphragm as controller of speed.
By expanding or constricting the: diaphragm, it-
is possible to regulate the amount of light passing
through the lens. The diaphragm serves as a speed
throttle. In the series of f£numbers, the lowest number
is the widest opening or the oné that give the’ most
amount of light and conversely, the highest number is
« the:smailest opening or the oné that give the least
amount of light.
2. Diaphragm as controller of depth of field,
In theory, itis not possible to focus a lens inmore
than one distance at the same time. In actual practice
however, in any given Jens objects that are nearer or
47FIGURE 15-4,
The £. number indicator on the Jens
mount, (Courtesy of Nikon Camera)
‘An f-2.8 diaphragm opening
‘An f-2 diaphragm opening,
Anf-8 diaphragm opening
FIGURE 15-B ,
Illustrations of the different diaphram openings
An £-22 diaphragm openingfarther than the object focused upe: ceasonably
sharp.
[Link] field is defined as the distance between
the nearest and the farthest [Link] sharp
focus when the lens is set or focused on a given distance.
[Link]-influencing factors of depth of field.
a. The size of the diaphragm opening,
~The general rule governing this factor is: The
smaller the opening, the longer is the depth of field.
Conversély, the wider is the opening, the shorter is
the depth of field.
The exception to this rule is the presence or
the effect of diffraction when a small opening:is used.
FIGURE 16-4.
A photograph with a wide or long depth of field
(Courtesy of Eastman Kodak)
pen 4950
length of the lens. -
’ The general rule is: the shorter the focal length, the
“ wider or longer is the depth of field and vice versa,
the longer is the focal length the shorter is the depth
of field.
FIGURE 16-B
‘photograph with a short depth of Held:
“ (Cauitesy ‘of Eastman Kodak)”
¢. - Circle of confusion
Another factor that'affects depth of field is the size
of the’circle of confusion which is considered
acceptable.” Circle of confusion refers to‘a small
circle:-which is séen by the eye, not asa circle bat a
fot or. point.
da. Hypestocal distance i
This is “the nearest distarice at which a lens is
“ focused witha given particular diaphragm opening
’ which will give the maximum depth of field.3. Diaphragm as controller of definition. _
The term definition is the ability of the lens to
form a clear images of fine details. Not even a
theoretically perfect lens would be capable of imaging
a point source of light as a geometrical point. All
practical lenses [Link] a point. as a small blur
which changes. in character, with the-change of lens
‘ aperture. Decreasing the lens aperture improves
definition as it removes the small amount of haze caused
by residual aberrations.
J. - Photographic Perspective and Correct Viewing Distance.
_The human eye sees in three dimension but.a lens
reproduces a view in two dimension. The missing dimension,
depth - is suggested mainly by the relative size and position
of various objects in the photograph. The relations of these
objects or perspective and therefore the naturalness of. the
photograph is determined by the position of the camera. A
camera position too close to the subject results in an
exaggerated magnification of the parts nearer the lens.
Correct perspective in a final photograph depends
largely upon the distance upon which it is viewed. T he correct
viewing distance which likewise gives the correct perspective
corresponds to the focal length of the lens of the camera when
acontact print of the negative is made. Frequently, this distance
is too short for the eye to be able to see it clearly and
comfortably so there is a need of enlargement. Enlarged
photographs require a viewing distance equal to the camera
focal length times or multiplied [Link] number of diameter or
degree of enlargement of the photograph.
SiK.
Focusing
When light passes through a-convergent lens, these light
rays are bended toward each other meeting at a point which is
~[Link]: point of focus. When the subject distance’ to ‘the lens is
shortor near the converging point of the light rays behind the
» Jens'increases‘and vice-versa. »Since-the light bending power
‘of alens'is fixed, itis‘necessary to adjust the lens s so the point
‘ of fdcus will be ‘on the film plane. i
Focusing i is defined asthe setting, of the propér distance
in order to form a sharp image. Focusing is the main factor
that-will determine the sharpness of the images on a
photograph. Of course, there are other factors to’be considered;
like camera movement or motion of the subject when the
~ photograph is ‘actually being taken. Though’ the focus is
as photographed.
Le
52
accurate, yet these factors will ‘blur’ image of the subject being
‘Methods of Focusing
wT. Seale-bed' or focusing scale. /
On the mount or barrel of the camera lens there ate
wo sets of pre-setted distance expressed in feet (ft) and in
eters (m): This is the scale bed or focusing scale. “These
"distances corrésponds tothe distance f from the camera ‘alens
. to the siibject. :
To ‘focus with this iniéthod, ‘one ‘has to“use a
S| measuring dévice (tape measture, yardstick; ruler;et¢.) and
actually measure the distance from the lens of the camera
‘to the’subject. Whatever distance was measured; will be
the setting of the ‘marker 6r pointer ‘of focus. TE actual
measurement is not possible or undertaken, estimation,
calculation, or approximation of this particular distance
can be resorted to. However, the accuracy of the focus isFIGURE 17
Scale-bed ona’. *
_ Tens mount
(Courtesy of Nikon
Cantera)
dependent upon the accuracy of estimation, calculation,
or-approximation. . :
. Rangefinders
A xangetinder is a mechanism used to measure the
angle of convergence of light as seen [Link] apertures
or opening but viewed’ at the same time. In modern
cameras, the rangefinder is coupled with the viewfinder.
There are‘two. types of rangefinders.
a. Split-irnage —
With this type, when one looks'through the
* viewfinder of a'camera, there is a‘¢itcle on the central
part with a line [Link] the circle. To
determine focus with this type, pick a straight line
in the subject and view it on the circle. If the straight
line is cut and separated. from each other, the
focusing is not correct. Rotate the barrel of the lens
until the said straight line is viewed as straight and
the lens are in focus.
This method of focusing is standard in single
lens reflex camera. Since the viewing and focusing
53FIGURE 18-A
A split-image
focusing of a
single reflex
camera
«
out of focus in focus
FIGURE 18-B
Illustration of its above focusing method.
(Courtesy of Nikon Camera) :
is made from light rays passing through the lens, it
is not affected by the problem of parallax.
(Explanation of parallax'on page 56).
34b. Co-incident i image.
This method of focusing is usually used. on
compact cameras with a fixed lens. With this type,
when you look into the viewfinder, you'll notive a
rectangle - in other cameras, it’s circle - on the upper
left portion of the viewfinder. For emphasis,
manufacturer of the camera usually add color to it,
generally a tint of yellow or greeri.
To focus with this method, pick a single detail
in the subject for viewing ‘in the view finder. Ifthe ~
single detail chosen appears with double image, the
distance or focus is incorrect. ‘Rotate the lens barrel
until the two images viewed will coincide with each _
” other arid you are “in” focus. 4
3." Groundglass
This method of focusing is accomplished by direct |
observation of the image of the subject ona glass with finely’.
grounded surface knownas groundglass. This groundglass
is found at the back of a camera or in the case of modern +
cameéras, also couple’ with the viewfinder. ‘The point of >
‘focus is where the image is sharpest. If the image appears
to be’blurred, fuzzy or not sharp, it is out of focus.
Some single-lens-reflex Cameras use a stall central -!
circle, a microprism on this. groundglass viewfinder for
easier focusing. The microprism will usually shatter an |
[Link] focus image. When, the image is exactly i in ‘foous'the ©
prisms seems to disappear...
M. Depth of Focus or Focal Range: ; Se |
4
When.a lens i is focused on any. given subject, there is
‘one lens-to-film distarice where the image is sharpest, as the ‘
55 2lens is moved close to the film or farther away from the film,
the sharpness decreases. [Link] a small range of movement
on. either side ofthe, position of the best focus in which the
degree. of unsharpness. is acceptable, and. the total range is
called. the depth. of. focus.: nos
Parallax
Parallax is the change of appearance and orientation of
_ objects when seen from two viewpoints. Itis also used to tefer
to the distance between-the viewpoints themselves.
Human vision of depth depends on parallax. Each eye
see objects from [Link] about-65mm, (2-1/2 inches)
apart. The left and right eye images on the retina have parallax
~ that is they are not identical: The spacing between various -
parts of the subject being viewed, varies according to the
angular ‘difference. These difference are. interpreted by the
brain as difference in distance and three dimensional depth is
“perceived, . jae led
. Shutters
A shutter is a device that opens to uncover the film td
make an. exposure for an accurately timed [Link] closes
automatically... Most. shutters are spring-powered, and are
FIGURE 19
| ° Shutter’ Speed Dial
= > — S caacaenEEeScontrolled by mechanical linkages. However, an ‘ever
increasing number of modern cameras, now uses a shutter with
electrical circuits to energize electromagnets for the control of
the speeds.
The action of the shutter is expressed in the different
shutter speeds which corresponds to the length of time or
_duration of the opening to the closing of the shutter.
The different shutter speeds are:
B = for bulb or brief
1 Peat
2
4
8
Bb.
30
60"
125
250.
500
1000
The B setting is an exposure setting for more than one
second. 1 ~ is for one second, 2 - is for one-half second, 4 - is
for one-fourth of-a second, and all succeeding numbers are
also fractions-of a secorid. Since except for B, and-no-1, all
numbers are fractions of second, the higher the number, the
faster is the shutter speéd arid will admit ‘less light and the
lower the number, the slower is the shutter speed and: ‘will
-- admit iiore light. The 'series of shutter speeds will show that
one shutter speed is twice faster or slower than the riext shutter
speed. : : : : :
EEE eeeeoessOem 57P
+58
Eample:
1/30 will admit twice more light than 1/60
or
1/60 will admit twice less light than 1/30.
There are two major types of shutters.
1, Between the lens or central shutter.
This shutter is located in between the lens
component, It is made of metal blades. Its action starts
from the center toward the sides then closes back to the
center. This type of shutter, can be synchronized with
a flash unit with every shutter speed.
2. Focal plane shutter.
This shutter is located directly in front of the film
or on the focal plane. It is usually made of cloth or
metal curtain. Its action starts from one side and closes
on the opposite side. This type of shutter can give a
faster shutter speeds than the between-the-lens shutter.
Exposure
Exposure is the action of recording radiant energy that
produces a change on a material or substance sensitive to such
energy. In conventional photography materials, the action of
the exposing energy reduces or breaks down the silver halide
sufficientl¥ to produce alatent (invisible) record of the pattern
of light intensity or in the case of printing material, a visible
record. Exposure is quantitative: it is the product of the total
light intensity and the length of time it strikes the emulsion.1. Calculating film exposure
Actually, there is not one correct exposure, but there
is an ideal or proper exposure. Exposure is therefore
subjective and errors in calculation could result in either
“over-exposuie” or “ander-exposuré”: One good rule in
judging proper exposure is the Presence or visibility of
details of the subject, not only in the middle tones but also
‘- in the highlights and shadow areas,
A simple rule provides a universal exposure guide
for color and black and'white films are based on the
following factors. : :
a. Film speed
b. Lighting condition
c. Type of subject
A general formula used in exposure setting of an
average or normal subject in the sun or open sky.
Example:
For average or normal subjects:
Film Speed Lighting Condition
Bright'sun Hazy sun Dull sun
180 100/219 1/125 £11 fe £5.6
ISO 200/249 1/250 fll gs £5.6
or =: 1/125 £16 f11 £8
ISO 400/27° 1/500 £11 £8 15.6 |
or =. 1/250 £16 fil £8
or = 1/125 £22 £16 : f11Bracketing
This technique is used when exposure calculation
that will give a desired result is uncertain; make several
exposures of less than and more than the calculated
exposure by two or four f-stops each.
. . Exposure meter
Photographic exposure meter measures light
intensities and have calculators or computer to find camera
settings that will produce good exposures. The exposure
calculators are mechanical device or sets of reference tables
from which exposure data can be obtained on observed
subjects and lighting conditions. The heart of the meter is
a light cell made of: : oo .
selenium (Se) cells
cadmium sulfide (Cds) cell
silicon (Si) “blue” cell’
. gallium-arsenic-phosphorous cell
hoop
FIGURE 20
An Exposure or
Light Meter
60"light for still photography. A flash unit offers a great light
Proper exposure with the use-of an exposure meter
is done-by: oy tate
a: Incident-light meter reading. The illumination
falling from a'source or sources onto’a scene or
_. subject-is measured. .
b: Reflected-light meter reading from, an 18 percent
gray card held at the subject position or area or from
a key subject area like the skin. ‘
. Existing light; also called ambient light or available
photography. 7
This is the taking of photogtaphs using only the light
that happens to be at the scene. This could be from natural
light sources, from windows, doors, skylight, twilight or
after dark} or from artificial light sources like table lamps,
- deiling ‘fixtures light, spotlights, neon; lights, candles,
’ fireplace or bonfire, etc. .
Because of the very wide'variety of light sources
and lighting conditions, exposure setting to be used can
only be suggested with little or no assurance of correctness.
The use of expostire méter or the use of the bracketting
“technique will be of great help howéver. The use of fast
lenses with lens speed of f1.8-or f1.4 or f1.2 or [Link] highly
advised plus the use of high speed film with emulsion
speeds of ISO 400/27 or ISO 800/30" or ISO 1600/39". The
use of a tripod or any other camera mount for long exposure
setting should also be considered: ‘The saying “If you can
see it, you can photograph it,” is a reality.
. Flash photography ©
Brief flash of light produced by burning metal wires
(flash bulb) or an electric discharge through a gas-filled
tube (electronic flash) is the most common supplemental
61
f