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Forensic Photographer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Chesterfield County

Forensic Investigator

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

$59K - $79K/yr

Ability to learn to operate a variety of forensic and investigative equipment (e.g photographic, fingerprinting, laboratory); to work at the scene of violent crimes or serious vehicle accidents; to ...

Nightwing

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst II

Arlington, VA · On-site

... photographs and collecting hash information - Assisting team members in imaging digital media - Assisting in gathering, accessing and assessing evidence from electronic devices using forensic tools ...

Nwis

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst II

Arlington, VA · On-site

... photographs and collecting hash information - Assisting team members in imaging digital media - Assisting in gathering, accessing and assessing evidence from electronic devices using forensic tools ...

Nightwing Group

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst II

Arlington, VA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

... photographs and collecting hash information- Assisting team members in imaging digital media- Assisting in gathering, accessing and assessing evidence from electronic devices using forensic tools and ...

YA Group

Senior Accident Reconstructionist

Richmond, VA · On-site

... photography, drones, CDR/EDR download, and measuring devices. * Analyze vehicle crush patterns and ... Work with forensic animators to develop scaled 3D drawings of crash scenes and vehicles. * Utilize ...

AVER

Latent Print Examiner

Springfield, VA · Hybrid

Utilize digital forensic principles and tools and possess working knowledge of tools and systems ... Provide courtroom testimony which includes the preparation of charts, photographs, and other ...

AVER

Senior Latent Print Examiner

Springfield, VA · Hybrid

Use digital forensic principles and tools and knowledge of tools and systems used for identity ... Provide courtroom testimony which includes the preparation of charts, photographs, and other ...

All JobsForensic Photographer JobsForensic Photographer Jobs in Virginia

Forensic Photographer information

See Virginia salary details

$22

$26

$34

How much do forensic photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic photographer in Virginia is $26.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.09 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic photographer?

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.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic photographer?

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 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.

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 firms, with a need for proficiency in camera equipment and documentation standards. The field is expected to grow as forensic science continues to expand.

Do forensic photographers get paid well?

Forensic photographers typically earn salaries that are competitive within law enforcement and forensic science fields, with median annual wages around $50,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in specialized agencies can lead to higher pay. Overall, the compensation is generally considered adequate for technical roles requiring attention to detail and knowledge of photography and crime scene procedures.
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Forensic Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Photographer job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, and 41% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,069 per year, or $27 per hour.

Forensic Investigator

Chesterfield County

Chesterfield, VA • On-site

$59K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Chesterfield County (Virginia) rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

223rd of 857 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Minimum Qualifications Associate's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, a natural or physical science, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Knowledge of basic practices and procedures utilized in the investigation of crime scenes and evidence collection and preservation. Ability to learn to operate a variety of forensic and investigative equipment (e.g

photographic, fingerprinting, laboratory); to work at the scene of violent crimes or serious vehicle accidents; to communicate effectively orally and in writing; to operate a personal computer and related software and other standard office equipment; to develop and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers. Good driving record required. Must possess or be eligible for a Virginia driver's license with no more than six demerit points in the past twelve months or a DUI conviction in the past four years.

Pre-employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check and education/degree verification required. This position is considered Critical Safety Sensitive and is subject to random drug testing and alcohol testing. The use of illegal drugs, and/or the use of medical marijuana for this position is prohibited.

Employees must not consume or be under the influence of alcohol while on duty, on work premises, or operating agency equipment. This position is subject to working in high security areas governed by the US Department of Justice's "Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Security Policy" and therefore requires successfully passing a more stringent criminal background check. Must be a US citizen or be a lawful permanent resident eligible for naturalization.

Duties PLEASE NOTE: This is primarily a field position - not a laboratory position. Very little lab work is done in-house. Investigate and process crime scenes; evaluate and process evidence; prepare detailed reports based on findings; present expert testimony in court; train department personnel in all aspects of forensic science; enter and retrieve data.

Perform other work as required. This position is a part of an approved Career Development Plan (CDP) and offers career progression opportunities and salary incentives, as funding permits, based on performance, qualifications and experience. Shift 10 hours per day; 40 hours per week to include weekends and holidays; shift work 6:00 a.m

- 4:00 p.m. and/or 3:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.; subject to call-outs Work Location Police Chesterfield County is an Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Workforce Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

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