NATS 1003 Digital Forensic Photography
Credit Points 10
Legacy Code 300874
Coordinator Robert Ebeyan 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 subject 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 1008
Equivalent Subjects NATS 2012 - Digital Forensic Photography 1
Restrictions
Students must be enrolled in 3589 Bachelor of Science (Forensic Science), 3562 Bachelor of Science (Advanced Science)(Forensic Science) or MT3022 Forensic Science
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Investigate the conceptual relationship between the collection of images, their optical enhancement and the production of physical evidence
- Evaluate how the reliability of photographic evidence may be considered in the context of an Australian legal framework
- Relate theoretical principles of the behaviour of light and image formation to photographic optics and image analysis
- Evaluate the utility and interpretation of imaging science principles in the context of forensic evidence
- Describe concepts of light propagation, colour temperature, wavelength and spectral distribution of light and its collection as digital images
- Utilise digital imaging methods and theory for the extraction of forensic evidence
- Analyse two and three dimensional images in terms of the veracity and fidelity as forensic evidence
- 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.
Type | Length | Percent | Threshold | Individual/Group Task |
---|---|---|---|---|
Quiz | 3x quizzes (30 minutes each) | 30 | N | Individual |
Portfolio | Exercises during prac sessions | 30 | N | Individual |
Practical Exam | 4 hours | 40 | N | Individual |
Prescribed Texts
- Robinson, E., & ScienceDirect. (2016). Crime scene photography (3rd ed.)
Teaching Periods
Spring (2022)
Hawkesbury
Day
Subject Contact Robert Ebeyan Opens in new window
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Spring (2023)
Hawkesbury
On-site
Subject Contact Robert Ebeyan Opens in new window