Fundamentals of Forensic Photography
In this exciting 8-week course, students learn to document crime scenes using real forensic photography techniques. Taught by a CSI investigator, this hands-on class is part of the Junior CSI Certificate program, building skills in evidence
What's included
8 live meetings
8 in-class hoursProjects
1-2 hours per week. 3–6 hands-on forensic photography projects to complete throughout the course, each designed to build real-world skills (e.g., macro photography, documenting staged evidence, creating a photographic report)Certificate of Completion
1 after class completionClass Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
In this 8-week interactive course, students will explore the world of forensic photography through engaging, hands-on learning designed specifically for ages 11–14. Each week, learners will attend a live Zoom class where they'll participate in a mix of instructor-led discussions, demonstrations, group Q&A sessions, and fun photography challenges. This course is part of our Junior Crime Scene Investigator Certificate program and provides an immersive introduction to crime scene documentation using photography. 🔍 What will be taught? Students will learn how forensic photographers capture detailed images that are used in investigations and courtrooms. They’ll gain foundational knowledge of how to use a camera, apply lighting techniques, and photograph various types of evidence—just like professionals in the field. 📚 Topics We’ll Cover Include: Basics of camera settings (ISO, aperture, shutter speed) Lighting, angles, and focus for clarity Crime scene photography procedures and logging Macro photography for small evidence Low-light and UV/infrared photography techniques Photographing specific evidence types (fingerprints, footprints, weapons, etc.) Assembling a photographic report Simulated crime scene photography practice 🧭 How is the class structured? Each week includes: A live Zoom class (required) with real-time interaction and demonstrations A hands-on assignment that applies the week’s lesson using a digital camera or smartphone Ongoing access to the instructor for questions and support Final week includes a mock crime scene challenge and showcase 👩🏫 How will I teach? I use a blended teaching approach that balances visual learning, interactive discussions, and practical activities. Each class includes slides to explain key concepts, live camera demonstrations to show techniques, and open Q&A for deeper engagement. Students will also receive example photos and activity instructions after class to guide them during the week. 🎯 My teaching style: Supportive and student-centered Focused on skill-building and creativity Encouraging curiosity and critical thinking Adaptable to different learning speeds and styles 💬 How much will learners interact with me? Students will interact with me directly each week during our live Zoom classes. I’ll: Answer questions during Q&A sessions Give individual feedback on weekly photo assignments Offer guidance via private messages or class posts Provide support during the final project and report-building Students are welcome to reach out at any time with questions, ideas, or photo submissions. I aim to create a safe, encouraging space where learners can explore forensic science and photography with confidence and curiosity.
Learning Goals
Explain the role of forensic photography in crime scene investigations and how photographic evidence is used in legal contexts.Adjust key camera settings (ISO, aperture, and shutter speed) to capture clear, accurate images under different conditions.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Week 1-2: Basics of Forensic Photography
📷 Introduction to forensic photography and its role in investigations.
📷 Understanding camera settings (ISO, aperture, shutter speed).
🔴 Live Zoom Class: Camera settings demo & Q&A. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Week 1-2: Basics of Forensic Photography
📷 Using proper lighting, angles, and focus for clear images.
📷 Hands-on practice with different light sources.
🔴 Live Zoom Class: Camera settings demo & Q&A. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Week 3: Crime Scene Documentation Techniques
📷 Step-by-step process of photographing a crime scene.
📷 Overview, mid-range, and close-up shots.
📷 Creating a crime scene photography log.
🔴 Live Zoom Class: Crime scene documentation walkthrough. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Week 4: Close-Up and Macro Photography for Evidence
📷 Understanding depth of field and macro settings.
📷 Photographing small details like fingerprints, tool marks, and trace evidence.
📷 Practice session: photographing various objects in detail.
🔴 Live Zoom Class: Macro photography workshop. 60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Supply List
To complete the hands-on photography projects in this course, students will need the following materials—most of which are commonly found at home: 📷 Photography Equipment Any digital camera or smartphone with adjustable settings (ISO, focus, etc.) 🧪 Forensic Photography Tools Ruler or forensic scale (a printable version will be provided) Flashlight (for low-light and oblique lighting experiments) Magnifying glass (optional) for examining small details Access to basic household items to serve as mock evidence (e.g., shoes for footprints, utensils or tools, small containers, textured surfaces for fingerprints) 🗂️ Project & Report Materials Notebook or binder for photo logs and note-taking Drawing materials for hand-drawn scene diagrams. 📄 Instructor-Provided Materials Printable templates: Photo log sheets, forensic scale, evidence markers Weekly project guides with examples and step-by-step instructions All provided materials will be shared digitally. No additional purchases are required.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
This course focuses on forensic photography techniques used in real investigations but does not include any graphic, violent, or disturbing imagery. All content is age-appropriate and designed to introduce students to crime scene documentation in a safe and educational context.
Students will be asked to photograph household items staged as "evidence" (e.g., footprints, fingerprints, tools, or objects placed in mock crime scenes). No real crime scenes or sensitive material will be used.
Some projects involve:
Working in low-light settings or using flashlights, which should be supervised to prevent eye strain or tripping hazards.
Using a camera or smartphone, so guidance may be helpful if learners are unfamiliar with camera settings.
No third-party tools requiring student accounts are used in this class.
Parental supervision is not required during class but is encouraged during photography assignments if students need help with lighting, positioning, or handling equipment.
Joined January, 2025
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am a Crime Scene Investigator and Forensics Unit Supervisor with over a decade of hands-on experience in law enforcement and forensic science. My daily work involves photographing real crime scenes, documenting physical evidence, and preparing visual materials for court. I regularly use the same techniques taught in this course—such as macro photography, alternate light source imaging, and evidence logging—in real investigations.
In addition to my fieldwork, I have extensive experience teaching forensic science to young learners, both in classrooms and through virtual programs. For the past several years, I have led youth outreach and education workshops in underserved communities, helping students ages 10–17 explore careers in law enforcement, science, and criminal justice. I've developed and taught a variety of age-appropriate forensic classes, including fingerprint analysis, crime scene investigation, and forensic photography, both online and in person.
My teaching style is engaging, supportive, and hands-on—I aim to spark curiosity and build confidence by creating a fun and safe space for students to explore science through real-world applications. I’m especially passionate about encouraging students to see beyond stereotypes and limiting beliefs, and helping them discover the exciting possibilities that forensic science can offer.
Reviews
Live Group Course
$7
weekly1x per week, 8 weeks
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-14
1-15 learners per class
