Hello,

My name is Kaiser79 and I am completing the Cert.3 in Investigative Services from the Albury/Wodonga region. I'm enjoying my first module and learning a lot from reading this forum.

I was wondering what Digital SLR Investigators prefer and your favourtite lens to capture images at night?

Also, if usings a large telephoto lens- What are some good concealment/comouflage techniques?

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Can anybody clarify for me if digital photos can be used in court as evidence?

I would think yes you can though they would need the time and date stamp on them and a chain of evidence for the photos. I would think it would be the same as the Hard drive video cameras we use here in Darwin. You are able to submit them as evidence though they need the chain of evidence with them.

Hi Kaiser79

When it comes to cameras it really comes down to two things;

1. Comfort and ease of operation in your own hands
2. Budget

The major players are Canon & Nikon however Sony & Fuji have some fantastic models in the market.

Look for a camera that has Date & Time Stamp as well as ability to manually focus and switch off flash function (all DSLR have these features).

Also stick to one brand so lenses and batteries can be interchanged. Canon lenses can be used with any Canon body whereas Nikon varies.

As for a telephoto lens that shoots well in low light you will need a 'fast lens' ie one with a large aperture, usually f2.8 or one that has an optical stabiliser. Costly though Canon L series comes to mind. A focal length of 300mm will be ideal if your starting out.

As for concealment techniques there are various ways. You may have to wait until you do the surveillance workshop with ASSI.

Hello PhilD & Supersleuth,

Thanks a lot for your responses. The post was a requirement of my first assignment so I really appreciate your help.

I'm really into my photography and I understand your comments and will certainly take them on board.

I can't wait to get stuck into more of the course and hopefully the industry.

Thanks again,

Kaiser79

Hi there Kaiser 79.
whos the training provider you are going through? if its who i think it is, ther have dramatically raised there course fees. im on the border and im happy for you to sit along side me at some stage so you can have an insight of the juob! let me know.
regards,
hudson investigations group