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Police Photographer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Police Records Clerk I

Royal Oak, MI ยท On-site

$38K - $53K/yr

Sort, distribute and/or file activity logs, dispatches, progress reports, impound papers, mug photos, arrest cards, mail, memos and other police records and reports. * Type and proofread records ...

Police Records Clerk I

Royal Oak, MI ยท On-site

$42K - $50K/yr

Sort, distribute and/or file activity logs, dispatches, progress reports, impound papers, mug photos, arrest cards, mail, memos and other police records and reports. * Type and proofread records ...

... and photograph arrestees/defendants for court. Upon the successful completion of the assimilation period the PSS Cadet will attend a regional police academy. The City will cover the cost for the ...

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Police Photographer information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$17

$32

How much do police photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for police photographer in Michigan is $17.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police photographer?

Police photographers are specialized professionals who capture photographic evidence at crime scenes, accident sites, and during investigations. Their work helps document crucial details that may be used in court or during the investigative process. They are trained to photograph scenes methodically, ensuring images are clear, properly scaled, and admissible as evidence. Police photographers often work closely with law enforcement officers and forensic teams to ensure that all relevant visual information is accurately preserved.

What does a police photographer do?

A police photographer takes pictures during crime investigations. In this role, you capture images throughout a crime scene to record evidence or other visual information that detectives can use during their investigation. Your responsibilities can vary, depending on the procedures of the department in which you work. Crime scene investigators may collect or locate evidence and then direct a photographer to take pictures of specific items or areas within the crime scene. Some photographers also collect measurement, location, and description data while they take photos. In some instances, a photographer may not take directions from other personnel, but conduct their duties according to their department's crime scene processing procedures. Your photos must provide context for the evidence, close up images, and overall crime scene images. Many police photographers also process their own film to avoid potential contamination.

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

To thrive as a Police Photographer, you need expertise in photography, forensic evidence documentation, and a solid understanding of crime scene procedures, often supported by specialized training or certification in forensic photography. Proficiency with digital cameras, photo editing software, and evidence management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, discretion, and strong communication skills are essential soft skills for accurately documenting sensitive evidence and collaborating with law enforcement teams. These skills ensure that photographic evidence is reliable, admissible in court, and supports effective criminal investigations.

What are common challenges faced by police photographers during crime scene documentation?

Police photographers often work in unpredictable and sometimes hazardous environments, which can make capturing clear and comprehensive images challenging. Adverse weather conditions, low lighting, and the presence of sensitive evidence require the use of specialized equipment and techniques. Additionally, maintaining the integrity of the evidence while working quickly and efficiently is crucial, as is adhering to strict chain-of-custody protocols. Effective communication with investigators and other law enforcement personnel is also essential to ensure all necessary evidence is thoroughly documented.

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

AspectPolice PhotographerCrime Scene Photographer
CredentialsPhotography certification, law enforcement trainingPhotography certification, forensic training
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, crime scenes, courtroomsCrime scenes, forensic labs, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsForensic units, crime labs, law enforcement agencies

Police Photographers and Crime Scene Photographers both work within law enforcement, capturing images for investigations. Police Photographers focus on documenting scenes, evidence, and incidents, often working directly with police officers. Crime Scene Photographers specialize in detailed forensic imaging of crime scenes, often requiring additional forensic training. While their roles overlap, Crime Scene Photographers typically have more specialized forensic skills, but both roles are essential for criminal investigations.

What are popular job titles related to Police Photographer jobs in Michigan?

For Police Photographer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Police Photographer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,908 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Police Records Clerk I

Royal Oak, MI โ€ข On-site

City of Royal Oak
Public Administrationย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

$38K - $53K/yr

Other

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Police Records Clerk I

A Police Records Clerk I performs a variety of office, clerical, record keeping and public contact assignments of varying difficulty within the Records Bureau of the Police Department. These include some tasks specific to the Police Department such as processing gun registrations and concealed weapons permits, and operating Clemis/Lein terminals. General direction is received from the Division Head or other designated supervisor. Police Records Clerks I may also receive supervision and coordination of work assignments from the Police Records Clerk III.

Essential Job Functions

A Police Records Clerk I may be called upon to do any or all of the following. (These examples do not include all of the duties which the employee may be expected to perform.)

  • Operate Clemis/Lein terminals, personal computers, FAX machines, copiers and other office equipment.
  • Sort, distribute and/or file activity logs, dispatches, progress reports, impound papers, mug photos, arrest cards, mail, memos and other police records and reports.
  • Type and proofread records, forms, reports, correspondence, requisitions, etc.
  • Research and/or copy files in response to requests from officers, attorneys, prosecutors, probation and parole personnel, other police departments, governmental agencies and the public.
  • Input police incidents, accident reports and other data onto the computer system; query computer files; prepare crime statistics.
  • Scan fire calls and correct coding errors; proofread dispatch cards; check for errors and omissions on arrest cards and photos.
  • Inform public of procedures for gun permits, CCW licenses and handgun registration, and process applications for same.
  • Register handguns by verifying manufacturer, model and serial numbers; entering a computer search; interpreting printouts; and completing registration in the gun program on the Personal Computer; process and notarize gun purchase permits and collect fees.
  • Process fingerprint requests by checking ID, running Clemis/Lein computer checks for warrants and collecting fees.
  • Perform law enforcement agency and military record checks; perform background checks for businesses and for vendors for Dream Cruise and other special events.
  • Assist with Police auto and city property auctions by typing forms, registering bidders and collecting monies.
  • Receive and tabulate cash receipts for counter and impound fees.
  • Inventory and order supplies.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.
KSA

A Police Records Clerk I, upon application, shall have the following experience and training: Level I: Graduation from high school or equivalent including or supplemented by course work, training or experience, which results in the above stated knowledge, abilities and skills. Level II: Employees are eligible for promotion to Police Records Clerk II after a minimum of 30 months of experience as a Police Records Clerk I. Level III: Employees with at last 12 months of experience as a II may compete for III level vacancies by taking a written examination with qualifying skills test. Qualifications for Employment:

  • Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures.
  • Knowledge of, or an aptitude for learning a variety of computer applications, including word-processing, spreadsheets and data base software, and LEIN/Clemis procedures.
  • Working knowledge of business English, spelling and arithmetic.
  • Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public and to work harmoniously with other employees.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to maintain records and prepare reports and to file materials alphabetically and numerically with speed and accuracy.
  • Ability to learn assigned tasks readily, adhere to prescribed routines, and to follow oral and written directions.
  • Ability to handle stress, stand or sit for long periods, and understand and respond to in person and phone inquires.
  • Skill in the operation of Personal Computers, terminals, word processors, typewriters, FAX machines, copiers, and other standard office equipment.
Application Special Instructions

Required Application Materials to submit with this application (provide as attachments): Resume