Shutter Speed

Digital cameras typically have a shutter speed range from as fast as 1/4000th of a second to as long as 30 seconds depending upon the make and model of digital camera.  Typically, a fast shutter speed lets in less light and gives the effect of freezing an object in motion.  In the lab, a fast shutter speed, such as 1/2000th of a second, is typically in bright light.  (Shutter speed is dependent upon the type of light(s) used on the copy stand.)

Slower shutter speeds are good for low light situations, such as when using some forensic alternate light sources and lasers.  In some instances, a barrier filter must be used with the camera lens to see the impression because of the light’s wavelength.