The mission of Forensic Imaging is to provide photographic documentation for each case processed through the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences, and to promote a professional visual quality to all photographic, video, web and graphic presentation produced by the office.

Forensic Imaging performs a variety of functions within the Institute of Forensic Sciences including forensic photography, photo documentation of physical evidence for the crime laboratory, graphic design, web design and video production. A staff of forensic photographers are chiefly responsible for photographic documentation of each autopsy performed at the Institute. Under the medical examiner service, photographers are on call 24 hours a day to respond to any scene of death. On average, more than 300,000 photographs are taken each year at the Institute.

Forensic Imaging staff serves as photography instructors and consultants to other Institute of Forensic Sciences’ personnel as well as law enforcement, criminal justice and medical personnel in and around Harris County. Forensic Imaging’s Forensic Photography Internship provides an opportunity for photography students to get hands-on experience and training in forensic photography applications.

Forensic Imaging provides multimedia services for the Institute through the development of print materials and publications as well as the development of technical solutions for training and education through various platforms including web, video, print and computer applications.