Job Description

Forensic Photographers (Senior Personnel)

RECRUITMENT ONLY

PURPOSE: Exercises 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. Employs extensive experience and innovation to identify and employ the appropriate combination of light sources, lenses, filters and techniques, including macro photography, to obtain highly detailed photographic images within laboratory and field environments. Identifies, employs, and adapts image management practices to access, identify, and analyze a large quantity of images.

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 methods and equipment to take various shots to ensure ultimate detail is captured. Integrates subject matter position, lighting arrangement, lenses, exposure times, focus and other photography principles to obtain best image. Perform off-site photography of evidence under all environmental conditions. Maintain chain-of-custody documentation.

• Organize, manage, populate, retrieve and provide quality control for images maintained in TEDAC’s photographic database, including images obtained from other agencies.

• Provide training and guidance to others regarding the proper procedures for evidence photography and to address the unique requirements of TEDAC. Communicate and integrate effort with other laboratory professionals/disciplines to facilitate examinations and investigations.

• Process imagery using photographic software for TEDAC and other agencies supporting the TEDAC mission. Assist in the preparation and presentation of photographic exhibits to be used in criminal proceedings.

• Provide presentations to describe photographic processes and capabilities to other government organizations and dignitaries.

• Maintain a thorough knowledge of latest trends in digital imaging, including hardware and software, to identify, formulate, and implement quality and process improvements. Participate in imaging and other professional forums to ensure quality and capability meets or exceeds standards.

• May appear in judicial proceedings to provide testimony on photographic work performed.

REQUIREMENTS:

Associate’s degree in photography from an accredited university/college or technical school or high school diploma and equivalent work experience. Minimum ten (10) years experience required; preferred experience in photographic documentation of evidence. For three of the five years immediately prior to applying for the specific contract position, the individual must have 1) resided in the United States; 2) worked for the United States overseas in a Federal or military capability; or 3) be a dependent of a Federal or military employee serving overseas. These individuals must, however, be United States citizens or Permanent Resident Aliens. Professional photographic services and photo processing experience in a laboratory setting required. Must have experience photographing materials, devices, or impressions (including latent fingerprints) of evidentiary or intelligence value utilizing a multitude of complex, sensitive cameras and lens; various types of high contrast films, filters and lights; focusing screens, tripods; and lighting techniques, direct lighting, front directional lighting, and the like. Must have the ability to study the nature and condition of the subject matter to be photographed to determine clarity and detail and select most appropriate camera, light sources, backgrounds, films, papers, light meters and filters; position subject matter appropriately; set lighting arrangement; determine lens and exposure times and; adjust focus. Must have experience processing exposed film through automatic film processor or digital media using photographic software and to 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. Must have knowledge of court proceedings to appear as a competent Government witness in regard to photographic work performed. An active or reinstatable TOP SECRET (TS) security clearance is required for this position.