NATS 1026 Digital Forensic Photography (WSTC)

This is an archived copy of the 2021-2022 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://hbook.westernsydney.edu.au.

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 700329

Coordinator Phillip Newman Opens in new window

Description Forensic photography serves an important function within forensic science for the purpose of scene and item documentation, as well as the detection and enhancement of forensic evidence. This unit introduces the student to the fundamental principles and practices of forensic photography. Topics include: principles of light science, digital imaging, camera and lighting operations, technical photography composition, and the maintenance of image integrity.

School Science

Discipline Forensic Science

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 1 subject

Pre-requisite(s) NATS 1027

Equivalent Subjects NATS 2012 Digital Forensic Photography 1 NATS 1003 Digital Forensic Photography

Restrictions Students must be enrolled in The College. Students in extended programs must pass 40 CPs of preparatory subjects prior to enrolling in this unit

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
  1. Investigate the conceptual relationship between the collection of images, their optical enhancement and the production of physical evidence
  2. Evaluate how the reliability of photographic evidence may be considered in the context of an Australian legal framework
  3. Relate theoretical principles of the behaviour of light and image formation to photographic optics and image analysis
  4. Evaluate the utility and interpretation of imaging science principles in the context of forensic evidence
  5. Describe concepts of light propagation, colour temperature, wavelength and spectral distribution of light and its collection as digital images.
  6. Utilise digital imaging methods and theory for the extraction of forensic evidence
  7. Analyse two and three dimensional images in terms of the veracity and fidelity as forensic evidence
  8. Discuss the validity of photographic evidence as a means of forensic examination.

Subject Content

1.Forensic photography principles and practices
2.Digital SLR camera functions and operations, photographic lenses and image perspective
3.Understanding digital imaging and image processing
4.Light and photographic science principles, exposure, white balance and colour space
5.Maintaining forensic digital image integrity
6.Lighting and technical composition for forensic photography

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Item Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Quiz 30 mins 10 N Individual
Concept Folio Exercises from home throughout semester 25 N Individual
Practical Folio Exercises during prac sessions 25 N Individual
Final Exam 2 hours 40 N Individual

Teaching Periods

Spring

Hawkesbury

Day

Subject Contact Phillip Newman Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window

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