Three courses in one training event – two days of photography instruction and practical exercises in addition to one day of digital image processing. 

Day One – Technical Photography
The principles of digital imaging will be explained and demonstrated.  Participants will create images to apply techniques discussed in class.  Participants should be familiar with the operation of their digital camera prior to attending the course.

Day Two – Advanced Accident Site Photography
Capture the most important and useful images to document any accident site.  Through the use of methods described in this course participants will expose their own images in various photographic disciplines and then share in critique sessions offering constructive observations for improvement.  Course format will be 4 - 5 hours of interactive instruction and demonstration, and 2 - 3 hours of practical exercises. 

Day Three –Digital Image Processing
Processing and storing of images for current and archival use in a variety of electronic formats.  Discussion of generally accepted protocols for processing of images to enhance image clarity and information while retaining authenticity crucial for use as documentary evidence.

IM300S

May 10-12, 2011
$1,090 for all applications with payment received by April 10, 2011
$1,198 for all applications with payment received April 11 to May 1, 2011
$1,248 for all applications with payment received May 2 to May 9, 2011
$50 processing fee will be added to tuitions for all offline applications. A tuition invoice can be ordered for a $15 processing fee.   All payments must be received by May 9 or admission will be denied.

8:30 am – 4:30 pm

NTSB Training Center • 45065 Riverside Parkway • Ashburn, Virginia 20147

OPEN.  Applications are now being accepted.

May 10-12, 2011

Day One – Technical Photography

• Digital photography – how a digital image is formed, processed and stored; digital vs. analog imaging; adjusting resolution & file sizes for particular purposes
• Camera usage and care – holding, focusing, light metering, batteries, moisture and cleaning
• Elements of exposure – shutter speeds, lens apertures, depth-of-field and exposure vs. noise
• Lighting: sources and techniques
• Close-up and macro-photography – use of flash, filtration and polarization
• Troubleshooting – Resolving difficulties by understanding the basics of digital hardware
• Photographer safety and camera care
• Digital imaging media, techniques and cautions

Day Two – Advanced Accident Site Photography

• Project environment – preparing for assignments under any conditions
• Documenting the scene – protocols for documentation of any type of accident/incident site
• Size, color and positional references – GPS capabilities and animation
• Storytelling – capturing images to maximize informational content
• Quantitative scene data – virtual reality, photomontage
• Authenticity – ensuring image authenticity through use of specific procedures
• Photo Reality – taking advantage of contrast, perspective, proper lens focal length and color reproduction
• Exercise: Documentation of simulated aircraft accident site

Day Three –Digital Image Processing

• Workflow process – from image capture to archival storage
• Scanning – converting traditional prints into digital images
• Files types – determining optimal file formats for various image types and usages
• Image size – Guidelines for best file sizes for a range of storage and electronic transmission considerations
• Compression – balancing the benefits and drawbacks of various modes of image compression
• Image Correction – using imaging programs to correct for deficiencies in overall image quality:
  • Enhancing detail
  • Adjusting luminosity
  • Cropping out distracting/irrelevant elements
  • Correcting distorted color
  • Improving contrast
• Authenticity protocols – practices and procedures to ensure that the integrity and accuracy of the documentary digital image is not compromised at any point in the workflow process

Participants must provide an individual digital camera, camera manual and laptop computer. In addition, it is recommended and encouraged that you bring to class all equipment and accessories that you may use on the job, such as scales, mirrors, memory, and tripods. Students should be prepared to photograph at a simulated scene outdoors. Please be prepared for local weather and outdoor working conditions.

1. NTSB investigators
2. Federal, state & local investigators, including those outside the field of transportation, who would like to build or enhance photographic skills
3. Potential participants in an NTSB investigation
4. Law Enforcement Officers
5. Safety and Private Investigators
6. Enforcement Inspectors
7. Others who would like to build or enhance photographic skills

Email TrainingCenter@ntsb.gov or call (571) 223-3900