When should photographs of a crime scene be taken?

Taking photographs of a crime scene as soon as possible before any items are handled is crucial for several reasons. First, capturing the scene in its original state preserves the context and layout, which are essential for understanding the events that transpired. Once evidence is collected or altered, vital details could be lost, making it much harder to reconstruct the incident later.

Photographic documentation serves as a permanent record that can be referred back to throughout the investigation and in court, enhancing the clarity and reliability of testimonies. This timing also helps in accurately showing the position of evidence, potential points of entry or exit, and any relevant conditions that could impact the investigation, such as lighting or weather.

Proper protocol dictates that photography should always be one of the first steps taken by law enforcement at a crime scene to ensure that nothing is overlooked and that the integrity of the crime scene is maintained for further analysis.