• Forensic Science Degrees
• Article: CSI Career
• Law Enforcement Degrees
• Criminal Justice Degrees

How to Become a Forensics Photographer

A forensics photographer might already be a working police officer or investigator, transitioning to this position, or may be a civilian photographer. Either way, expert knowledge of not just photography, but investigative police work and crime scene investigation is necessary. There is no specific certificate or degree required, and the experience or education required will vary from employer to employer. However, as much experience as possible in police work, forensics, crime scene investigation and photography would make an applicant more competitive.

The International Association for Identification (IAI) offers a certification for forensic photographers that have at least three years of photography experience, 40 hours of classroom photography courses from a college, police academy, FBI academy, IAI training course or related institutions. Eligibility for IAI certification as a forensic photographer also requires the applicant to be currently employed in the forensic science field where forensic photography is one of his/her duties. Education programs in forensic science, law enforcement, criminal justice, crime scene investigation or criminology along with a passion and additional courses in photography can help get started in this exciting and technical career.

Forensic Photographer Job Description and Duties

Forensic means “having to do with law” and forensic scientists work to solve legal issues with science. Forensic photographers use photography to support evidence in a legal case in a court of law. They usually work for police departments, a coroner’s office or sheriff’s department. They take photographs of evidence and accident or crime scenes, and use digital imaging to enhance images like fingerprints, that can help in a case. They may also be present at a coroner’s examination, taking pictures for detectives. Being a forensic photographer requires more than basic photography skills. They need to know precisely how the picture they take can accurately, or inaccurately, reflect the scene, and attention to detail is imperative. Like other police work, there are different shifts and work can involve calls at any hour.

Forensic Photographer Salary and Job Outlook

Forensic scientists’ salaries vary according to employer and region, as well as years of experience, though the national mean annual salary in forensics hovers around $50,000. As a field, forensic science jobs are expected to grow 31% in the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Forensics photographers usually receive a good pension and benefits, as well.

Education Related to a Forensic Photographer Career

American InterContinental University: The field of forensic science is growing rapidly and career opportunities are bright for those educated in this field. Forensic science is a lucrative and exciting career path. AIU has developed curriculum taught by professionals in the forensic science field that will help prepare graduates for successful forensic science careers as well as graduate studies in forensic science and related areas. Request no obligation program materials from AIU today!

BSCJ - Forensic Science
BIT - Computer Forensics
Associates in Criminal Justice Administration
BSCJ - Law Enforcement
BSCJ - Special Populations

Kaplan University:

BSCJ Crime Scene Investigation
BSCJ - Crime Analysis
Crime Scene Technician Certificate
AAS in Criminal Justice
BS in Criminal Justice

Florida Tech University Online:

AA in Criminal Justice
BA in Criminal Justice

Virginia College:

AA in Criminal Justice
Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
Master's in Criminal Justice
Master's in Cybersecurity

University of Phoenix Online: University of Phoenix can help prepare you for careers in the field of criminal justice. University of Phoenix is the largest private university in the country and is dedicated to their students.

Associate's | Bachelor's - Criminal Justice

Herzing University:

AS in Criminal Justice
BS in Criminal Justice
BS in Criminal Justice - Homeland Security
BS in Homeland Security
BS in Legal Studies

Request free information from Herzing University Online to learn more.

Rasmussen College Online:

Associate's in Crime Science Evidence
Associate's in Financial Investigation

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