Digital cameras have proven a very useful tool for investigators when time plays a critical role. Photos of a fugitive or a missing child can be digitized and distributed by e-mail, fax and online. Images can be transmitted to a central station, other officers in the field or used to quickly obtain search warrants. Where consultation is needed, crime-scene images can be transmitted to experts. Some cameras can transfer the images directly into a printer.
Digital images are usually higher quality than other types.
In an enlarged image, there is far less distortion than with traditional films. Software lets the user manipulate or edit the images to improve the appearance and attach them to documents, or for posting on a Web page. The LCD also acts as a display to help establish camera settings and scroll-through menu options. Image resolution is improving steadily as prices drop. The resolution of an image refers to its sharpness and clarity and is determined by the number of pixels an image contains.