Report Summary
Issued 29 March 2023, this FOI response provides responses to a number of questions about the use of 360° photography by Forensic Services and devices used for this purpose.
Response
A response to each request has been provided by Forensic Services.
Request 1a. - Does your forensics department use any form of 360-degree photography
Response - We will provide 360 Panoramic images on request.
Request 1b. - Does your forensics department use any form of 3D laser scanners
Response - We do not have any laser scanning devices within the department.
Request 2a. - If yes, what devices and/or brands?
Response - The photographic images are obtained by taking multiple images, recorded on a Nikon D500, with these subsequently being stitched together using PtGui.
Request 2b. - If yes, how often/which crimes do you use them for?
Response - 360 Panoramic images are usually only done for Major Incidents such as murders, though may be produced where they add value to the investigation or presentation.
Request 3. - What cameras do your forensic department use?
Response - Images are recorded on a Nikon D500 DSLR, which is fitted with a Sigma 8mm 1:3.5 Fisheye Lens. This is mounted on a 360 Degree precision Adjuste MK11 head, on a tripod.
Request 4. - Do you use different cameras for volume and major crime?
Response - No
Request 5a. - If so, what type/brand
Response - All Scene Examiners at present, regardless of being a Volume Scene Examiner or Full Scene Examiner, are issued with a personal photographic kit containing a Nikon D500. In addition, each individual office has a specialised Pano Kit, which contains the necessary hardware, and its own D500 body (at present all the existing kits are being updated with the above).
Request 5b. - If so, why?
Response - Not applicable
