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Crime Scene Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crime Scene Tech

Center, TX

$23.53 - $38.19/hr

Conducts latent prints development and preservation, photography, video, sketching, crime scene search, evidence collection and preservation in support of law enforcement. Position requires working ...

New

Crime Scene Technician

GA · On-site

$45K/yr

Continuous Summary The Crime Scene Technician position is under general supervision of the ... Documents crime and accident scenes; takes photographs and videos of crime and accident scenes ...

New

... scene calls, including but not limited to homicides, unattended deaths, suicides, fatality ... and property crimes Photographs scenes, collects, processes and properly packages evidence ...

Crime Scene SupervisorSummary: Under close supervision, performs a wide variety of tasks associated ... Assists with documenting crime scenes by taking photos and video as directed by OPD Officers and ...

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Crime Scene Photographer information

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$9

$20

$37

How much do crime scene photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime scene photographer in the United States is $20.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a crime scene photographer do?

As a crime scene photographer, you apply forensic science principles to an investigation and collect images that may be useful to said investigation. You document and record physical evidence, ensure each photo has an item to provide scale, and coordinate with analysis labs to answer any questions. Crime scene photographers may be asked to document a site at any time of day or night and are often exposed to gruesome and tragic sites, so mental fortitude is essential to success in this field. Some crime scene photographers focus exclusively on this role while others serve in another position—often a law enforcement role—and switch to forensic photography as needed.

What does a crime scene photographer do?

A crime scene photographer is responsible for capturing detailed and accurate images of crime scenes, evidence, and sometimes victims, to support criminal investigations. Their photographs help law enforcement and legal professionals document and analyze crime scenes, preserve evidence, and present findings in court. Crime scene photographers must follow strict protocols to maintain the integrity of their images and often work closely with forensic teams to ensure all relevant details are documented.

What are some common challenges faced by crime scene photographers on the job?

Crime scene photographers often work in high-pressure environments where attention to detail is critical. Challenges can include working long or irregular hours, responding to crime scenes at short notice, and documenting scenes in difficult weather or lighting conditions. Additionally, maintaining objectivity and emotional resilience is important, as scenes may be distressing. Collaboration with law enforcement officers and forensic teams is frequent, requiring strong communication skills to ensure all necessary evidence is captured accurately.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crime scene photographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crime Scene Photographer, you need a solid understanding of forensic photography principles, attention to detail, and knowledge of law enforcement procedures, often supported by formal training or certification in forensic photography. Familiarity with digital cameras, photo editing software, and evidence management systems is crucial. Strong observational skills, discretion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set top professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure that photographic evidence is accurately captured, preserved, and admissible in court, supporting successful investigations and legal proceedings.

What is the difference between Crime Scene Photographer vs Forensic Photographer?

AspectCrime Scene PhotographerForensic Photographer
CredentialsPhotography skills, law enforcement trainingPhotography skills, forensic science knowledge
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, law enforcement agenciesCrime labs, law enforcement agencies
Industry UsageLaw enforcement, criminal investigationsLegal cases, forensic analysis

Crime Scene Photographers focus on capturing images at crime scenes for investigative purposes, often working directly with law enforcement. Forensic Photographers have similar skills but may also have additional forensic science training, working in labs or detailed forensic documentation. Both roles are essential in criminal investigations, but their work environments and specific focus areas differ slightly.

How much money do crime scene photographers make?

Crime scene photographers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries.

What cities are hiring for Crime Scene Photographer jobs?

Cities with the most Crime Scene Photographer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Crime Scene Photographer jobs?

The most popular types of Crime Scene Photographer jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Crime Scene Photographer jobs?

The top employers for Crime Scene Photographer jobs are:

What states have the most Crime Scene Photographer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Crime Scene Photographer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Crime Scene Photographer jobs?

For Crime Scene Photographer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Crime Scene Photographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

$23.53 - $38.19/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

NOTICE TO APPLICANT

This position will close at 12:00AM MST on the End Date.
You must ensure your application reflects the correct and current information for your work experience, hours worked per week per position, education, personal information, etc.
Only the information provided on this application is evaluated when determining compensation.

Job Description

PURPOSE SUMMARY.

Under general supervision, responds to scenes as requested by Evidence Supervisor, Field supervisor, or CID supervisor. Conducts latent prints development and preservation, photography, video, sketching, crime scene search, evidence collection and preservation in support of law enforcement. Position requires working rotating shifts and on-call duty.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES.

  • Inspects and visually investigates crime scenes for the collection and preservation of evidence to include all trace and physical evidence such as body fluid (blood, saliva, etc.), hair, fibers, weapons, shoe impressions.

  • Uses digital camera, video equipment and measurement and diagraming techniques.

  • Collects DNA and utilizes Rapid DNA for results.

  • Serves as specialist in firearms examination and National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) acquisitions. Safely handle, examine, operate, and test fire a variety of firearms and ammunition.

  • Produces print and impression evidence by casting and/or photographing to scale impressions to use physical evidence as investigative aid.

  • Processes evidence using powders, chemicals, and alternative light sources for latent prints.

  • Packages evidence in accordance with policy and procedure.

  • Prepares detailed reports of all activities in reference to crime scene.

  • Operates basic power tools, hand tools and equipment.

  • Properly uses specialized equipment on crime scene vehicle.

  • Maintains confidentiality with regard to information received on cases and is responsible for knowing and abiding by all department and county policies and procedures.

  • Trains new technicians as necessary.

  • Assists supervisor in conducting educational training and discussions and mock scenes for academies, citizens and LEO's.

  • Works rotating shifts and on-call duties.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES. Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS.

A. Education. Associate's degree in criminal justice, evidence collection, forensics, or related field.

B. Experience. Two (2) years' experience in evidence collection, crime scene processing, forensics, photography/videography. Basic crime scene investigation and photography course preferred.

C. Education/Experience substitution. In accordance with County policy.

D. Licenses/Certifications. A valid Driver's License is required. Must maintain a satisfactory driving record in accordance with County policy. Must have or successfully complete a basic crime scene processing class and photography training course within 1 year of hire.

E. Other (e.g., post-offer medical exam, polygraph, background check, driver's license record, etc.). Must pass background check and driver's license check. No Felony convictions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED BY THE POSITION:

Must have knowledge of inventory maintenance practices for a wide variety of property; strict security and administrative controls for classification and storage of items, such as evidence for law enforcement purposes; the rules of evidence and chain of custody procedures; record keeping; and some knowledge of computerized inventory record keeping procedures; pertinent Federal, State, and County laws; photography, and lighting techniques.

Must have skills to follow the legal chain-of-custody and property disposal procedures; accurately and legibly post and maintain inventory records and documents, identify and reconcile related discrepancies; operate motor vehicle, personal computer and applicable software, and material handling equipment; properly photograph elements of a crime scene; photograph crime scene by taking close-up, mid-range, and overall pictures; and photograph nighttime crime scenes.

Must have ability to work rotating shifts and be on-call; communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees, supervisors, Sheriff's deputies, and members of the public; operate basic power tools, hand tools, and digital camera; respond to crime scenes in a timely manner; work safely by wearing personal protective equipment (PPE); train new technicians; work with outside agencies referencing crime scene processing; work with specialized crime scene equipment; conduct educational training and discussions and mock scenes for academies, citizens and LEO's; and work closely with the case agent to gain relevant information for crime scene investigation.

Compensation Range

$23.53 - $38.19

Dona Ana County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to abide by all federal and state laws prohibiting employment discrimination on the basis of a person's race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, disability, serious medical condition, genetic information, ancestry, spousal affiliation, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other unlawful criteria, except where a reasonable Bona Fide Occupational Qualification exists.

Dona Ana County will make reasonable accommodation(s) for the known physical or mental limitations of an applicant with a disability, upon request, unless the accommodation(s) would cause an undue hardship on the operation of the County. Please seehttp://www.donaanacounty.org/ada/for our Public Notice and to get the Testing/Interview Accommodation Request Form or call 575-647-7210 for assistance.