Digital Photography Technology: Forensic Photography
The Forensic Photography, College Certificate program, is designed to provide students with the technical skills necessary to photographically preserve crime scenes and items of evidence from both technical and legal standpoints. The Forensic Photography program provides students with the necessary skills in composition, focus, exposure, color theory, and lighting. The program enables students to work in front of the camera, photography studios, and computer-based processing labs. The program addresses the need for an alternative career track for students who work in crime scene investigation, criminal justice, homeland security, fire safety, and other evidence-gathering-related occupations. There is a demand for individuals with the skills and talents of a photographer or a computer-based digital imaging specialist.
What Do Forensic Photographers Do?
Forensic photography, sometimes referred to as forensic imaging or] crime scene photography, is the art of producing an accurate reproduction of a crime scene or an accident scene using photography for the benefit of a court or to aid in an investigation. It is part of the process of evidence collecting. It provides investigators with photos of victims, places, and items involved in the crime.
Where Do They Work?
Crime scene investigators may work long hours under distressing conditions. Some forensic photographers travel to crime scenes, while others work in laboratories and photograph subjects using microscopes.
What’s the Job Outlook for Forensic Photography?
Forensic photography, also known as forensic imaging or crime scene photography, is the art of accurately reproducing a crime scene or accident scene using photography for the benefit of a court or to aid in an investigation. It is part of the process of collecting evidence and provides investigators with photos of victims, places, and items involved in the crime.
Employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 13 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
What’s Required to Complete the Forensic Photography Certificate Program?
A college certificate in the Forensic Photography Program from WCCCD requires 30 credits.
As a forensic photography student at WCCCD, you will take photography courses for your program.
Some students plan to transfer to a four-year college or university after earning their degree. If that’s your goal, you might choose specific courses. Talk with your advisor about a personalized plan that meets your goals.
How Long Does it Take to Earn a Forensic Photography Certificate?
Most forensic photography students take three semesters (1.5 years) to complete the required courses.
What Will I Learn as a Forensic Photography Student?
A forensic photography student will learn the necessary skills needed in the principles of composition, focus, exposure, color theory, and lighting. The program enables students to work in front of the camera, in photography studios, and in computer-based processing labs. Courses in the program cover various topics such as photography, criminal investigation, and sociology.
Recommended course sequencing
Semester 1 Total: 9 Credits
- DPT 110 - Digital Photography I 3 Credit(s)
- DPT 115 - Digital Photo Imaging I 3 Credit(s)
- CJS 100 - Introduction to Criminal Justice 3 Credit(s)
Semester 2 Total: 9 Credits
- LEA 201 - Introduction to Law Enforcement 3 Credit(s)
- SOC 100 - Introduction to Sociology 3 Credit(s)
- DPT 120 - Forensic Photography 3 Credit(s)
Semester 3 Total: 12 Credits
- LEA 230 - Fundamentals of Criminal Investigation 3 Credit(s)
- DPT 210 - Studio Photography 3 Credit(s)
- DPT 235 - Photojournalism 3 Credit(s)
- DPT 255 - Capstone Portfolio Project 3 Credit(s)
Where is WCCCD’s Forensic Photography Program Offered?
The Forensic Photography Program is offered at our campuses. All three campuses also offer classes for other photography-related certificates and degrees.
As a WCCCD student, you can take courses, use facilities, and get involved at any of our six locations.
It is the policy of WCCCD that no person, based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, marital status, disability, or political affiliation or belief, shall be discriminated against, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in employment or in any program or activity for which it is responsible or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education.
