AboutSteve Pearson Expertise Try me for 35mm or darkroom issues. I am a professional photographer in Australia. I work solely in 35mm digital format, after 35 years of colour and monochrome film in many formats. I have darkroom experience and for many years belonged to my local camera club. I conduct photography workshops around the state on any and most subjects relating to photography and often judge photography exhibitions and competitions.
Experience I hold a Diploma of Applied Science in Forensic Investigation, with part of my studies involving photography. I spend most days with a camera and am into digital photography in a big way. I was given my first camera in 1965 and have not been without one since. I spent nearly 20 years as a forensic investigator with my state Police Force, and since retiring a couple of years ago have concentrated on commercial photography - especially weddings.
Expert: Steve Pearson Date: 11/3/2004 Subject: Forensic Career
Question Hi Steve,
I'm a student in Wellington, NZ and am looking at the idea of becoming a forensic photographer. I've done a degree in criminology and psychology, and am now looking at a two year diploma in photography. I've currently got a Nikon F100, but haven't gone digital yet. I've looked around, but am pretty lost as to where to find info on forensic photography as a career, not to mention the qualifications one would need. Could you recommend some info, or the type of qualifications you've found useful?
Thanx,
Maz.
Answer Maz. Sorry for the delay getting back to you. My home PC has some damned virus that bars me from the www. Have had to log on at work. Anyway, most of the major tertiary institutions in NZ will have forensic-based courses. Failing your finding any information on same, get in touch with the NZ Police Force and ask to speak to their forensic guys. They will soon tell you what you need and where you get further training. There is no real need to do an actual forensic photography course. If you are an experienced photographer with some qualifications, you will soon be taught by the forensic people as to the requirements of the job. Just a few hints - be good at macro- and micro-photography, as well as being able to work under very adverse lighting conditions. If you want, you can get in touch with the Canberra Institute of Technology that runs an Applied Science Diploma course in Forensic Investigation, which includes 2 Forensic Photography modules. HOpe this helps. Cheers. Steve P
