Below is an example of an artist's rendering of a courtroom scene. The use of photography in criminal investigations can be helpful in capturing details, sequences, actions and incidents and can be useful in the development of appropriate exhibits. Photographers are technicians who provide support for the collection and preservation of evidence. Forensic photography is usually done after the fact in order to obtain evidence and similar matters. The photographer is seldom, if ever, involved in surveillance work which falls into the realm of the private investigator but an individual who utilizes photography as a technical aid to the professional detective, lawyer or other specialist.
Technical assistance is also useful in questioned document examination.
The utilization of ultraviolet imaging is helpful in evaluating obscured material or in developing exhibits for the examiner. It is a useful tool in presenting visual data, handwriting, special markings or any related details. Photographic illustrations of questioned documents help to establish the accuracy of the examiner's review of handwritten or typewritten material. The right picture at the right time can make a real difference in the presentation of a case in court. The photographer is indispensable in capturing the evidence, the incident or the characteristics of the setting.