Dimensional Review of Scales for Forensic Photography

Published

November 25, 2015

Author(s)

Massimiliano Ferrucci, Theodore D. Doiron, Robert M. Thompson, John Jones, Adam J. Freeman, Janice A. Neiman

Abstract

Scales for forensic photography provide a geometrical reference in the photographic documentation of a crime scene. A common scale used by investigators is a plastic, L-shaped ruler that allows for a dimensional reference in the photographic documentation of evidence or a crime scene. The ABFO No. 2 Standard Reference Scale has received recognition by the forensic science community as a reliable and accurate reference scale; however, a survey of commercially available scales exposes a lack of consistency in manufacturing processes and, consequently a lack of strict adherence to the standard. This study seeks to evaluate the quality of commercially available photo scales, document manufacturing processes, and suggest pathways for establishing manufacturing standards for forensic photo scales that will serve as a means for ensuring accuracy and increasing user confidence.

Citation

Journal of Forensic Sciences

Pub Type

Journals

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DOI Link

Keywords

Forensic Photography, Scales, Dimensional Metrology, Quality Control

Citation

Ferrucci, M. , Doiron, T. , Thompson, R. , Jones, J. , Freeman, A. and Neiman, J. (2015), Dimensional Review of Scales for Forensic Photography, Journal of Forensic Sciences, [online], https://doi.org/10.1111/1556-4029.12976 (Accessed October 14, 2025)