Virginia Division of Forensic Science
Forensic Imaging
The Forensic Imaging Section performs photo processing and printing of crime scene photos, forensic photography, image enhancement of surveillance recordings and audio filtering and tape enhancement.
Specifically, we perform:
- Image Enhancement
Image enhancement is primarily used to enhance latent prints and has also been successfully applied to questioned documents, toolmarks, bite marks, photgraphic evidence, fracture matches. Image enhancement is also used in medical examiner cases, for example to enhance tattoos and scars on decomposed bodies. It is also used in conjunction with the Automated Fingerprint Indentification System and Alternate Light Sources. This technology can be applied to any evidence that requires a visual examination. - Video Enhancement
Video recordings from bank robberies, convenience stores or drug surveillance operations can and have been successfully enhanced in an effort to identify suspects and other pertinent information in order to aid law enforcement in their investigations. - Audio Enhancement
Audio recordings from a wide variety of criminal activity are enhanced by suppression of background noise and the enhancement of voice in an effort to aid in the investigation of criminal offenses.
- Forensic Photography
Perform quality photographic support statewide for forensic scientist in every discipline. Produce images using established or experimental forensic photographic techniques to include digital camera technology on a variety of types of evidence. - Photo Processing
Process and print high volume of photographs from law enforcement agencies throughout the Commonwealth and for forensic scientists and Commonwealths Attorneys with brief turnaround times.