Lighting Methods for Copy and
Evidence Close-up Photography
The following lighting methods are effective for photographing various evidence subjects. The effects should be previewed in order to select the best lighting technique for the evidence subject.
Direct Lighting
Direct lighting uses normal copy lighting with one or more light sources at a 45-degree angles.
Direct Reflective Lighting
Light is reflected directly off the subject into the lens. Place the subject at a 10-degree angle from the lens to film plane and place the light source at 10-degree angle from the subject. The light source reflects at a 20-degree angle into the lens. The light source may need to be diffused to prevent hot spots. This method creates very high contrast.
Oblique Lighting
Oblique lighting uses a light source at a low angle, usually to show detail by creating shadows in the subject surface. It is commonly used when photographing impressions, tool marks and certain types of fingerprints.
Bounce Lighting
Light is bounced off a white or reflective surface. The bounce surface may be positioned at different locations (above or to one side of the subject) to create the desired effect. This usually produces even non-glare lighting with low contrast.
Diffused Lighting
An opaque material is placed between the light source and the the subject to diffuse the light. This usually results in even lighting with reduced reflections and hot spots.
Transmitted Lighting
With transparent subjects the light source is transmitted through the subject toward the lens. The angle of the transmitted lighting is adjusted from 90 degrees to 45 degrees for the desired effect.
Front Directional or Axis Lighting
A clear piece of glass is placed between the subject and lens at a 45-degree angle. The light source is positioned parallel to the film place and 45-degrees to the glass. While the light is transmitted through the glass, some is reflected downward directly on the subject. This technique is effective when photographing fingerprints on mirrors and into glasses or cups.
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