Training Courses

Mastering Crime Scene Photography – Shrewsbury PD

Date & Time:
  • November 10, 2026 – November 12, 2026 - 8:30 AM–4:30 PM (Eastern Standard Time)
Location:
106 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA
Agency:
Municipal Police Institute

Facts

Instructor: Drew Webb

Dates: November 10, 2026 - November 12, 2026

Location: Shrewsbury PD

Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Price: $499.00 USD (1 attendee); $474.00 per person (2 attendees); $449.00 per person (3+ attendees)

Course Overview

This intensive three-day hands-on program equips investigating officers with contemporary techniques in crime scene and forensic evidence documentation through photography. Participants develop competency in camera operation, lighting strategies, and both manual and automatic exposure modes, enabling them to capture accurate crime scene imagery independent of automatic camera settings. The curriculum emphasizes specialized photography applications such as fingerprint documentation, tool mark evidence, and impression photography. Recognizing that practical application is essential, more than half the course time involves direct hands-on camera work with personalized guidance from experienced instructors, with all exercises first demonstrated by instructors to ensure participant comprehension.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This three-day course will introduce investigating officers to the latest methods of crime scene and forensic evidence photography. By the end of the course, participants will gain proficiency in using cameras, associated accessories, and lighting techniques in both manual and automatic modes. This enables them to accurately document scenes without being restricted by automatic camera functions. The course places particular emphasis on fingerprint and small object evidence photography, including tool marks and shoe/tire print impressions.

Participants will also learn efficient shortcuts using camera automation where appropriate, enhancing the ease and efficiency of their photography. Over 50% of class time is dedicated to hands-on camera exercises with personalized instruction from experienced trainers. Exercises are demonstrated via projection using instructors' cameras to ensure participants understand tasks before executing them.

Topics covered in this foundational course include:

  • Overview of crime scene and accident photography
  • Camera controls: understanding knobs, buttons, and settings and their functions
  • Close-up and macro photography: capturing fingerprints on various surfaces, tool marks, and ballistic evidence
  • Exposure: mastering proper exposure settings and understanding controlling variables
  • Depth of field: utilizing hyperfocal distance for effective evidence photography
  • Principles of lighting and modification using flash or continuous light sources
  • Introduction to forensic/alternate light source photography for fluorescent fingerprint powders, and detection of body fluids and sub-cutaneous bruising using affordable light sources
  • Photography in low-light conditions: techniques for photographing large and small areas at night using continuous light and electronic flash units
  • Foot and tire impression photography, including techniques for capturing dust prints from hands and feet
  • Simple enhancement and clarification techniques for evidentiary images
  • Courtroom testimony: preparing and presenting photographs effectively in court
  • Brief history of photography and its technological advancements

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Participants are encouraged to bring note-taking materials. Each participant receives a comprehensive manual containing printed presentations,