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Forensic Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utah County Sheriff

$30.74 - $35.35/hr

This position responds to crime scenes, processes fingerprints, photographs and documents evidence, prepares forensic reports, assists detectives and prosecutors, and provides expert testimony in ...

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Forensic Photographer information

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How much do forensic photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic photographer in the United States is $27.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do FBI photographers make?

FBI photographers are federal employees who typically earn salaries based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with starting salaries around GS-7 to GS-9, equating to approximately $40,000 to $60,000 annually. With experience and specialized skills, such as proficiency with forensic imaging tools and certifications, salaries can increase to GS-11 or higher, reaching over $70,000 per year. Benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and job stability.

Is it hard to be a forensic photographer?

Forensic photography is a specialized field that requires attention to detail, technical skills with cameras and lighting, and knowledge of crime scene procedures. It can be challenging due to the need for accuracy, working in sometimes difficult or sensitive environments, and adhering to legal standards. Certification and experience can help improve proficiency and job performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Photographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Photographer, you need a solid understanding of photography principles, meticulous attention to detail, and formal training in forensic procedures—often supported by a degree or certification in forensic science or photography. Familiarity with digital cameras, image processing software like Adobe Photoshop, and evidence management systems is typically required. Strong observational skills, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate clearly with law enforcement personnel set outstanding professionals apart. These skills ensure that photographic evidence is captured accurately and reliably, supporting investigations and legal proceedings.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic photographers in the field?

Forensic photographers often encounter challenging conditions, such as working in low-light environments, adverse weather, or time-sensitive crime scenes. They must meticulously document evidence without contaminating the scene, requiring both technical skill and attention to detail. Collaboration with law enforcement and forensic teams is critical, as is maintaining chain of custody for photographic evidence to ensure its admissibility in court.

What Does a Forensic Photographer Do?

As a forensic photographer, your job is to support the investigation of a crime scene by using photography to record evidence. Forensic photography has a purpose for each image and aims to disturb the scene as little as possible—such disturbances can taint the evidence and make it inadmissible in court. In this role, you may also talk with lawyers or investigators to help build a legal case and determine how (or if) the law was broken. To support the neutrality of evidence, forensic photographs must include the subject, the scale of the image, and a reference object. This work occasionally involves adding a marker to the scene, such as a number or a ruler. Forensic photography is sometimes referred to as crime scene photography.

How do I become a forensic photographer?

To become a forensic photographer, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by postsecondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, photography, or a related field. Gaining experience with photography skills, understanding crime scene procedures, and obtaining certifications like the Certified Photography Technician (CPT) can improve job prospects; familiarity with specialized equipment and attention to detail are essential in this role.

Are forensic photographers in demand?

Forensic photographers are in steady demand due to their specialized skills in capturing crime scene evidence, which is essential for investigations and court cases. Employment opportunities are often found with law enforcement agencies, forensic labs, and private security firms, with a need for proficiency in camera equipment and knowledge of legal procedures. Job growth is expected to be stable as forensic photography remains a critical component of criminal investigations.

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

AspectForensic PhotographerCrime Scene Photographer
CredentialsOften requires law enforcement or forensic certifications, photography trainingTypically needs photography skills, sometimes law enforcement background
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, law enforcement agencies, forensic unitsCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations
Industry UsageUsed in criminal investigations, legal proceedingsPrimarily in law enforcement, media, or private investigations

Forensic photographers focus on capturing detailed, legally admissible images for criminal investigations, often working within forensic labs or law enforcement agencies. Crime scene photographers specialize in documenting physical evidence at crime scenes, often working outdoors or at various locations. While both roles require strong photography skills, forensic photographers typically have additional certifications related to forensic science, making their work more focused on legal standards and evidence preservation.

What are forensic photographers?

Forensic photographers are professionals who specialize in capturing photographic evidence at crime scenes or during investigations. Their primary role is to document crime scenes, injuries, physical evidence, and other relevant details accurately and impartially. These photographs are used by law enforcement agencies, lawyers, and courts to analyze and present evidence. Forensic photographers must have a keen eye for detail and an understanding of legal procedures to ensure their images are admissible in court.
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Forensic Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Photographer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,554 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Forensic Technician

Utah County Sheriff

On-site

$30.74 - $35.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

UTAH COUNTY OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

100 East Center, Suite 3800, Provo, UT 84606 Phone: (801) 851-8158

Fax: (801) 851-8166 Email: humanresources@UtahCounty.gov

http://www.utahcounty.gov

"The Value of Public Service Employment is vital to the success of our state, county, and local communities."

Utah County Government Employees start every day with the well-being of the entire community in mind:

How can I make my community a better place?

Who will need my help and protection?

How will I make a difference for someone?

We hire smart, compassionate, loyal, ethical, committed, innovative people.

Apply today and join our Team.

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

Posting Date: June 4, 2026

Closing Date: Open until filled

POSITION: Forensic Technician

The Utah County Sheriff's Office is seeking a detail-oriented Crime Scene Investigator to support criminal investigations through the collection, processing, analysis, and preservation of physical and digital evidence. This position responds to crime scenes, processes fingerprints, photographs and documents evidence, prepares forensic reports, assists detectives and prosecutors, and provides expert testimony in court when needed.

The ideal candidate has experience in forensic science, crime scene processing, evidence management, fingerprint analysis, or digital forensics. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, professionalism, and the ability to work effectively in challenging and sensitive environments.

Starting Pay $30.74-$35.35 (based on experience)

Key Responsibilities

  • Respond to crime scenes and ensure proper evidence collection and preservation procedures are followed.
  • Locate, develop, photograph, and process latent fingerprints using a variety of forensic techniques.
  • Collect, examine, and preserve physical and digital evidence for investigative and court purposes.
  • Photograph crime scenes, traffic accidents, evidence, victims, and suspects.
  • Document crime scenes using technical measurements and forensic photography.
  • Prepare detailed reports and maintain accurate case documentation.
  • Process evidence for laboratory analysis and evaluate forensic findings.
  • Maintain the integrity of evidence through proper storage, release, and disposal procedures.
  • Assist detectives, prosecutors, and other law enforcement personnel with investigations and court preparation.
  • Testify in court regarding forensic evidence, crime scene processing, and investigative findings.
  • Participate in after-hours on-call responses as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Computer Science, or a related field.

  • Two (2) years of related experience.

  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in crime scene investigations, forensic laboratory work, or digital forensic analysis.

  • Experience with fingerprint identification and AFIS.

  • Professional certifications in crime scene investigation, latent print examination, or forensic science.

Additional Requirements

  • Ability to obtain and maintain an approved International Association for Identification (IAI) certification.

  • Ability to participate in an on-call rotation and respond to after-hours callouts.

  • Ability to maintain professionalism when exposed to graphic crime scenes and sensitive evidence.

Click here for full job description:

http://hr.utahcounty.gov/cms/uploads/Forensic_Technician_3494_7aa65030c9.pdf

Full-Time Benefits Package Includes:
100% employer-paid health insurance premiums
Up to a 6.2% 401(k) match
Utah Retirement Systems (pension and 401(k) options)
Pre-tax Health Savings Account (HSA)
Fourteen (14) paid holidays
Dental and vision insurance
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

AAP/EEO Statement

It is the policy of Utah County Government to assure equal employment opportunity to its employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, genetic status of gender identity.

UTAH COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

AAP/EEO Statement

It is the policy of Utah County Government to assure equal employment opportunity to its employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, genetic status of gender identity.

UTAH COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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