Which statement about the order of crime scene photo views is accurate?

• A. Begin with an overall view, then an intermediate view, then a close-up.
• B. Begin with a close-up view first.
• C. Use only close-up views.
• D. Begin with an intermediate view, then an overall view, then a close-up.

Answer: (A)

Starting with an overall establishing view is essential because it anchors the scene in space and shows where evidence sits within the surrounding environment. This top-down context then guides the next photos, which should connect the broader scene to specific items with intermediate views that show spatial relationships. Finally, close-up views capture the fine details of evidence and often include a scale, without losing sight of where that evidence sits in the larger context. This sequence keeps documentation organized and helps you reconstruct the scene later. The other options fail because a close-up first omits context, only close-ups miss surrounding details, and starting with an intermediate view disrupts the logical progression from wide to detailed.