Accurate Representation of Components
Gordon & Gordon Engineering maintains rigorous discipline in our technical photography to assure the true and accurate representation of components in support of litigation as well as straightforward technical photography.
Our approach is simple: take the best images possible using the most reliable equipment in a manner that provides the least disruption (especially important in multi-party evidence examinations, fieldwork, or in situations where progressive disassembly or simulation occurs).
We have decades of experience with photogrammetry and assessing the dimensional accuracy of photographic images.
In many instances, the photographs are the only evidence available and we are cognizant of the Federal Rules of Evidence 1001 through 1004 to ensure that our photographs are fully admissible – why compromise?
Capabilities
Our principal engineer has decades of photo-documentation of failures involving structural, mechanical system, thermal system, consumer product, and electronic components and has received training in crime scene investigations and digital crime scene photography from the Global Forensic and Justice Center at Florida International University and is well-versed in ASTM E1188: Standard Practice for Collection and Preservation of Information and Physical Items by a Technical Investigator.
The heart of the evidence examination operations is our dual Canon 80D single-lens reflex digital cameras with their powerful 24.2-megapixel (APS-C) CMOS sensor and impressive 45-point dual-pixel CMOS autofocus system. The optics of the system rely on genuine Canon lenses that have ultrasonic autofocus motors (USM) and image stabilization (IS) along with B+W F-Pro MRC nano-coated ultraviolet (UV) filters. All Canon equipment is maintained by OEM through CPS Gold-level Canon Professional Services.
Macro photography is performed with the razor-sharp 60mm f/2.8 lens that can focus down to 1:1 life-size magnification and EF12/EF25 extension tubes provide magnification without distortion. General scene photography is performed with either the fast 17-55mm f/2.8 standard zoom lens or the ultra-wide 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 zoom lens. Any light polarization is performed using B+W XS-Pro Kaesemann high-transmission circular polarizer filters with MRC nano-coating to assure optical clarity and accurate, neutral color reproduction while controlling reflections without any loss of image sharpness.
The illumination for still photography relies on genuine Canon Speedlights to assure correct exposure using evaluative through-the-lens (TTL) metering. Macro work uses the MR-14EX twin circular flash tube ring light mounted on the end of the 60mm lens. General illumination is performed using the rapid-cycling 600EX-RT shoe-mounted, bracket-mounted, hand-held, or radio-connected flashes with phase-difference autofocus.
Data capture for all still and macro photography is performed using a 6000x4000-pixel lossless compression CR2 raw format that includes documenting the camera & lens metadata including the ISO exposure, aperture f-stop, shutter speed, and focal distance (even on zoom lens photos). All image processing is performed on working copies of the original CR2 raw files using the latest release of Adobe Photoshop and all workflow operations are documented in accordance with ASTM E2825 Standard Guide for Forensic Digital Image Processing as well as guidance from the Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence.
On-scene optical microscopy is also provided through the use of an AmScope UHM210-11 HDMI digital microscope with that provides still and video imaging and jpg and mov recording at over 2 MP resolution and includes dual-ring variable illumination and the unit has been outfitted to accommodate a B+W XS-Pro Kaesemann high-transmission circular polarizer filter to control reflections and glare from specimens. On scene imaging is provided by an Element 14-inch HDMI portable monitor that provides in-situ magnification between 6 and 44x and the entire system is capable to operate with or without AC power.
Finally, any videography is performed using a Sony FRD-AX43 Digital 4K video camera that provides a 20x optical zoom through Zeiss Vario-Sonnar optics and an 8.29-megapixel recording. Image stabilization is provided by Sony’s proprietary image stabilizer (called Balanced Optical SteadyShot) with a gimbal mechanism with its Intelligent Active mode compensating for vibration and camera shake across pan, tilt, roll, pitch, and yaw axes.
All dimensional references (rulers, protractors, and L-scales) are high-contrast, crime-scene grade and are carefully placed in the field of view to assure an accurate standard for photogrammetry. When necessary, a Manfrotto 3021 tripod outfitted with a Bogen 3047 fluid head is used to provide a robust platform or a more portable Manfrotto 3001 tripod outfitted with a Bogen 3025 head is deployed when necessary to provide rock-steady imaging ground. Evidence staging props and clamps are all selected to provide secure support without altering condition and proper positioning for accurate imaging of critical details for photogrammetry measurements and detailed comparisons.
All imaging is captured on SanDisk Extreme Pro SDXC memory cards to provide fast write speeds with shockproof, X-ray proof, waterproof, and can operate in temperatures ranging from -13 to 185°F to ensure the high-resolution images are captured quickly and their data integrity is assured.
Through careful and trained attention to imaging requirements, equipment, methods, tooling, and other details, our adherence to Federal Rules of Evidence 1001-1004 is assured.
Bottom Line
Forensic photography is a highly technical and disciplined field that requires rapid and accurate proficiency – do not leave (or lose) your vital technical photos to amateurs. Gordon & Gordon Engineers know what and why they're on the job and have the ability to deliver reliable and accurate results when it matters most.
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