The Evidence Photographers International Council (EPIC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising forensic photography’s professional standards. An EPIC certification has been established through a process of education and testing. Those who qualify will have demonstrated professional competence in the collection of photographic evidence for use in civil and criminal cases, both in theory and in practice. This type of recognition can help a crime scene specialist or criminal investigator advance their career in law enforcement. Holders of an EPIC certification may receive preferential treatment from attorneys or insurance companies seeking to document evidence in a civil action in the private sector.
Documenting a site of interest, the evidence found there, and the method of discovery are all part of forensic photography. To ensure admissibility in court, strict rules for gathering evidence are followed. Lighting, camera angle, viewpoint, and measurement scale must all be used correctly. Enhanced lighting, such as infrared, ultraviolet, or laser light, is required for some photographic evidence. One of the primary benefits of pursuing an EPIC certification is education in legal requirements and advanced forensic photography techniques.
A photographer must be recertified every four years to maintain current proficiency, a requirement that can be met in one of two ways. One way to meet the requirement is to retake EPIC’s Evidence Photographer Certification test. A minimum of 30 hours of EPIC-sponsored continuing education classes can be completed as an alternative. Recertification has the benefit of demonstrating to employers that the certificate holder has remained active in the field and is up to date on the latest developments.
In law enforcement departments and forensic laboratories, there has been a growing need for professional standards monitoring. Accreditation independent agencies and boards is the most common method. An EPIC certification is a widely recognized, independent verification of forensic photography professional competence. Holding such a certification demonstrates the level of training and expertise required for departmental accreditation.
EPIC has a professional code of conduct and a review process for suspending or revoking certification. The code of conduct works to ensure that the evidence is recorded in an objective manner. It should make no difference whether the evidence is beneficial or harmful to the photographer’s employer as long as it is properly documented. If a complaint arises as a result of a member’s refusal to compromise professional standards, the process protects a photographer’s certification. There is also a referral service for EPIC certified photographers looking for work in the private sector.