Job Description

Photographer (Latent Print Photographer)

PURPOSE: To perform the full range of photographic camera and darkroom functions, on a day or evening shift, on materials, impressions (including latent fingerprints), or devices that are evidentiary in nature or of intelligence value.  

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Exercise discretion in the selection and application of an array of camera and related equipment, methods, techniques and processes to provide the best possible images of complex and detailed evidentiary material. Photographs materials, devices, or impressions (including latent fingerprints) of evidentiary or intelligence value and independently adapts various techniques such as macro photography and various cameras, lenses, filters, lights, screens, tripods and related equipment, materials and procedures to address special forensic problems to obtain optimum results.

• Study the nature and condition of the subject matter to be photographed to determine clarity and detail. Determine and select most appropriate camera, light sources, backgrounds, films, papers, light meters and filters for various shots to be taken; position subject matter appropriately; set lighting arrangement; determine lens and exposure times, and adjust focus.

• Process exposed film through automatic film processor or digital media using photographic software.

• Make enlargements and/or reductions using a variety of lens, filters and photographic software to make accurate and precise enlargements and reductions from very poor over or under exposed negatives and/or digital images. Use dodging, shading, and burning techniques. Retouch photographs using chemicals, knives, and the like, when processing and printing black and white photographic work.

REQUIREMENTS:

Associate’s degree in Photography from an accredited university/college or technical school or a high school diploma and equivalent work experience and a minimum of five (5) years experience in photographic documentation of evidence preferred.. Must have a thorough knowledge and ability to apply broad laboratory processing principles, both custom and automated, in standard and modified techniques to produce high quality finished products which meet individual photographic requirements. Must be able to capture high resolution images of latent prints on a wide range of complex forensic material associated with IEDs. Must be able to recognize developed latent prints and preserve them in a manner to ensure that the images are correctly captured and retrievable. Must be able to process images using advanced imaging software, prepare detailed notes of work and preserve images on non-rewritable media. Extensive knowledge of and full ability to operate numerous types of standard and specialized camera equipment with related lenses, film, and adaptors, etc., some of which are sensitive in nature and may be subject to judicial scrutiny. Must have an active or reinstateable Top Secret security clearance.