NTSB Training Center.

Title Advanced Accident Site Photography
Description Participants will learn how to capture the most important and useful images to document any accident site. Through the use of methods described in this course, participants will expose their own images in various photographic disciplines and then share in critique sessions offering constructive observations for improvement. Course format will be 4 - 5 hours of interactive instruction and demonstration, and 2 - 3 hours of practical exercises.
Prerequisite Attendance at Technical Photography (IM304), or a strong working knowledge of photographic principles.
ID Code IM306
Dates and Tuition

March 12, 2008
$385 for all applications with payment received no later than February 12
$423 for all applications with payment received February 13 - March 6
Applications submitted between March 7 and 12:00 pm (noon) ET on March 11 will be accepted with payment of a $50 late registration fee.

September 10 , 2008
$385 for all applications with payment received no later than August 10
$423 for all applications with payment received August 11 - September 4
Applications submitted between September 5 and 12:00 pm (noon) ET on September 9 will be accepted with payment of a $50 late registration fee.

Times 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location NTSB Training Center • 45065 Riverside Parkway • Ashburn, Virginia 20147
Photodocumentation Series Save on time, travel and expenses - attend the entire Photodocumentation Series for a discounted tuition. 
Status OPEN.  Applications are now being accepted.
Apply to Attend March 12, 2008
September 10 , 2008
CEUs 0.7.  This course is also certified by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services for up to 11 hours (Career Development/Elective) of Partial In-Service Credit (PIC).
Overview
  • Project environment – preparing for assignments under any conditions
  • Documenting the scene – protocols for documentation and storage of images of any site
  • Size, color and positional references – GPS capabilities and animation
  • Storytelling – capturing images to maximize informational content; point of view, angle of view; use of alternative lighting and image capture
  • Quantitative scene data – virtual reality, photomontage, perspective grids and vanishing points to photogrammetry and reverse photogrammetry
  • Authenticity – ensuring image authenticity through use of specific procedures
  • Photo Reality – taking advantage of contrast, perspective, proper lens focal length, 2D vs. 3D dimensionality and color reproduction
  • Exercise: Documentation of simulated aircraft accident site
Performance Results Upon completion of this course the participant will be able to:
  • Record accurate and useful investigative images and minimize photographic distortions by employing techniques demonstrated in the course
  • Obtain images of an accident site so that the scene may be recreated as necessary
  • Use the elements of contrast, perspective, dimensionality and color reproduction to optimize photo-reality
  • Capture images using specified protocols to ensure authenticity, accuracy and admissibility
Comments from course participants
Equipment Participants must provide their own digital camera and laptop computer. In addition, participants are encouraged to bring to class accessories that they may use on the job, such as scales, mirrors, memory and tripods.
Who May Attend
  • NTSB investigators
  • Federal, state & local investigators, including those outside the field of transportation, who would like to build or enhance technical photographic skills
  • Potential participants in an NTSB investigation
  • Others who would like to build or enhance technical photographic skills
Accommodations Area hotels and restaurants
Airports Washington Dulles International (IAD): 10 miles
Washington Ronald Reagan National (DCA): 30 miles
Baltimore/Washington International (BWI): 60 miles
More Information

Email TrainingCenter@ntsb.gov or call (571) 223-3900

Courses, forums and symposia are added to the schedule throughout the year.  Subscribe to the e-newsletter to learn about upcoming events and new programs: http://www.ntsb.gov/TC/list/list.htm