Digital Imaging Technology Issues for the Courts
Scientific Working Group on Imaging Technology (SWGIT)
See also the instructional videos on "Crime Scene and Evidence Photography"
Introduction
Digital photography and imaging technology has its background in technology from the 1940s. The first camera designed to create photographs represented by a digital file was developed in the 1960s. Just as color film was a normal progression of the technological evolution from black and white film, electronic/digital imaging is a normal progression of the technological evolution from silver-halide based film. Today, digital imaging technology is regularly encountered in the courts around the world. The goal of this document is to discuss the proper use of digital imaging technology through the dissemination of information to judges and attorneys. This document is designed to present the relevant issues in plain language to maximize the effectiveness of the courts when dealing with this technology.
This document will provide the reader with citations to case law and scientific and technical research articles dealing with digital imaging technology used within the criminal justice system.
This document will also address some of the common myths and misconceptions associated with digital imaging technologies used in the criminal justice system. For additional information readers should become familiar with the basics of digital imaging technology. Information on these basics can be found in several documents released by SWGIT.