Is it necessary to use a scale for every photograph taken at a crime scene?

Using a scale for every photograph taken at a crime scene is not necessary. Scales are primarily employed to provide a point of reference for size and dimension, which can be critical for close-up and mid-range photographs where specific details need to be accurately measured and documented. For wide-angle or overall scene photographs, the inclusion of a scale may not be essential, as the primary purpose is to capture the context and layout of the scene rather than specific measurements.

In contrast, close-up photos of specific evidence, such as tools, weapons, or other pertinent items, benefit significantly from having a scale included. This is also true for mid-range photos where you want to showcase the evidence in relation to its surrounding context. However, not all images taken at a crime scene will require the precision that a scale provides, particularly if the focus is on establishing the overall scene rather than documenting specific evidence. Therefore, using a scale for every photograph would be excessive and unnecessary, making the statement that it is not required for every photograph accurate.