Photography in Forensic Medicine: Guidelines and Recommendations in the Indian Perspectiv

Abstract

Photography has been an integral part of Forensic Medicine since time immemorial. Since these photographs are predominantly used for legal purposes, they should be as accurate and informative as possible. Photographs are not only important to document injuries, but also to document absence of injuries (negative photographs). The major factor with photography in Forensic Medicine is that the photographs are not repeatable and also that one copy has to be submitted to the courts. Therefore utmost care is required when the photographs are taken and preserved. A good photograph not only gives detailed information of the incident but also assists the court in administration of justice. The present paper not only addresses common problems faced by the Forensic Medicine experts while taking photographs, but also provides guidelines and technical suggestions for better photography. Along with that new concepts in medical photography are also discussed.