When you look at a typical forensic photographer job description, you’ll see that it requires a blend of both photography skills and forensic science knowledge. This raises the question: Which type of degree should you earn?
Although an aspiring forensic photographer does certainly need photography skills, it’s arguably more important to have in-depth knowledge of how to safely navigate a crime scene without potentially jeopardizing crucial evidence.
A forensic photographer needs to know how to correctly photograph an entire scene and should know how to document it while ensuring that its size and location are evident from the photographs.
Because of the need for in-depth crime scene knowledge, it’s generally preferable for an aspiring forensic photographer to earn a forensic science degree from a program that includes a course in forensic photography and crime scene reconstruction. During this type of course, students should be introduced to the accepted approaches to photographing a crime scene under a range of different conditions.
The curriculum for a typical forensic science degree program is also likely to include the following:
- General science courses in biology, biochemistry and physics
- Crime scene processing techniques, including photography, rough sketch and refined sketch
- The recovery of evidence at crime scenes and their analysis in the crime lab
- Forensic toxicology and analytical methods
- Forensic DNA analysis, including serology and STR analysis techniques
Because forensic science degrees require laboratory classes in addition to classroom lectures, you won’t be able to complete your degree entirely online. Depending on the school you choose, you may be able to enroll in some non-lab courses via the school’s online program.
Although the classes for your forensic science degree will cover forensic photography techniques, it’s also a good idea to take electives that support your career goals. Look for electives in digital photography at your school.
In addition, you might consider checking resources (e.g., a local arts center) in your area for off-campus photography workshops. During the summer, look for internship and job opportunities that are relevant to either photography or forensic science.