Training and Education
Virtual Workshops
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Fundamentals of Photography: 6 Hours
This workshop focuses on the essential photography skills needed for crime scene investigators. Whether you are a novice or looking to refresh your skills, this interactive course is designed for you. Topics will include but not limited to:
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Getting to know your camera
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Cameras and sensor types
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Composition and framing
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Exposure and the exposure triangle (shutter speed, aperture, and ISO)
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Using Manual mode
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Depth of field
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Metering
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Basic low light/night photography
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Using the different camera modes: Shutter priority, Aperture Priority, Manual
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Basics of flash photography
The workshop will include practical exercises so attendees are encouraged to have a digital camera (DSLR or mirrorless) on hand. The camera should have Shutter Priority (S or Tv), Aperture Priority (A or Av), and Manual (M) mode. Attendees are also encouraged to have a tripod, release cord, and a flash (preferably an external flash unit).
In-Person Courses
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Fundamentals of Photography: 24 hours
Photography is essential to crime scene documentation, and it is imperative for investigators to understand how to take the best photograph to capture the scene or the evidence. This is an introductory 24-hour class to photography that covers basic nomenclature of photography equipment and its functions, lens types, and auxiliary attachments. The class covers exposure, metering, depth of field, nighttime/low light photography, and basic flash photography. Students will learn to use the different modes (Auto/Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Speed Priority, and Manual). The class also covers the basics of utilizing cellular phone cameras and their limitations for documentation. The course consists of didactic portions but mostly hands-on practice. One session will be scheduled later in the day to allow for nighttime and low light photography practice.
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Required equipment: DSLR or mirrorless camera (preferably with P, Av (A), Tv (S), M, and Bulb modes) with zoom or kit lens, tripod, external flash, shutter release cable, flashlight
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Advanced Flash Photography: 16 hours
This course delves deeper into flash exposure, the inverse-square law, flash-drop off, off-camera flash, and other features. Students learn and practice using flash in various situations including photographing people, small objects, reflective surfaces, and small spaces. Students taking this course should have already taken the General Photography and Exposure; or have equivalent knowledge and experience. [Highly recommended to combine with the Low Light Photography course.]
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Required equipment: DSLR or mirrorless camera (preferably with P, Av (A), Tv (S), M, and Bulb modes) with zoom or kit lens, external flash, off-camera flash cable or wireless flash transmitter, tripod, shutter release cable
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Basic Crime Scene Photography Concepts: 40 hours
The goal of this 40-hour class is to combine the fundamentals of photography and its application to crime scene documentation. The course covers exposure, metering, depth of field, night/low light photography, and flash photography. Students will be familiarized with the camera and its functions, lens types, and auxiliary attachments. Throughout the course, students will be taught how to properly document a crime scene and evidence present in the scene using overall, midrange, and close-up photography. The course will include classroom presentations, hands-on exercises, and mock scenes. At the end of the course, students should understand camera mechanics, know how to photo using various camera modes, be familiar with low light photography, and be able to demonstrate basic crime scene photography techniques.
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Required equipment: DSLR or mirrorless camera (preferably with P, Av (A), Tv (S), M, and Bulb modes), tripod, external flash, shutter release cable, flashlight
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Courtroom Testimony: 16 hours
Public speaking is a daunting task even for the most extroverted person. Testifying in court, where every word is recorded, can be even more challenging. This introductory class is focused on providing techniques that help expert witnesses become more effective communicators. This workshop-style class will allow students an opportunity to practice public speaking, and receive instant feedback. This course includes a moot court practice to prepare the student for likely scenarios during testimony and cross examination.
Required materials: Specific to class or agency. Students will also be required to wear court appropriate attire for the moot court practice. Contact us for additional information.
Recommended materials: Agency specific policy and guidelines for crime scene processing and documentation, report writing guidelines, notes pages samples, and report page samples
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Additional classes are in development. If there is specific training that you or your agency needs, please contact us. We would be happy to create a custom class for you.