Sony Spectra Pro Film Camera

This opinion is dual in nature, its a rating of the Polaroid Spectra Pro Camera and it?s a general description of how I use it at work for a child abuse investigations.

As a Social Worker dealing with the various issues of child abuse and neglect there are many times when having a good camera is vital to my investigation. From the crime scene to the courtroom, my Polaroid Pro Camera provides the needed evidence and documentation to protect children. In my job I strive to protect children (under the age of 18 years) whose lives or health are seriously jeopardized because of abusive acts or negligence.

When investigating referrals of physical abuse a child?s wounds have to be identified and taking pictures of open wounds, lacerations or the bruised back of a child that has received extensive marks after being whipped with an extension cord is a grisly and somber part of my job.

When investigating referrals of physical abuse I have taken instant close-up photos of various child?s injuries including- fresh bruising, abrasions, burns, lacerations, scars, cluster or faded bruising, which could be evidence of abuse over an extended period. Sadly, I photographed some of the most horrific pictures that still bring tears to my eyes.

Photographs are documentation of conditions in a home and of visible injuries to a child. They are a graphic means of supporting, in court, testimony of what was observed. It is difficult for a parent to deny a description of home conditions or of a child?s injuries when these are supported by photographs.

Proper documentation of physically abused children is crucial in establishing the "chain of evidence" needed to substantiate cases. Photo documentation helps Child Protective Services secure early admissions of guilt from the abusing parent which means we can begin working with the family sooner.

The Polaroid Spectra Pro Camera instant photos are tamper resistant, unlike conventional 35 mm and digital images. This camera allows me to see immediately that the right image was captured, minimizing the number of photos taken per case.

The auto-focusing system is extremely helpful and important allowing me to take needed pictures that may place a child in a very compromising positions. The injuries a child sustains are bad enough, and I don?t want to make taking pictures any more difficult.

Another added advantage if the child is in immediate danger of further abuse my instant photos provide immediate evidence before officer leaves the scene, unlike 35-mm photos or digital images (which can be improperly exposed or "lost"). Instant photos become part of the case file immediately, particularly important for the 72-hour hearing.

The perks of having this camera in my line of work is that it?s easy to use. Just look through the viewfinder, aim; wait for the green light, which will glow then lightly press, the red round button close the hand strap. Don?t worry about hitting the wrong button there are no other round buttons to push. The flash will go off, the camera makes the usual mechanical noises and in 60 seconds I have a photo that will be filed and displayed in court.

The camera comes with an easy-to-read LCD panel, which keeps the picture taking process easy, simply point and click. The additional features, which include time exposures, time-lapse photography, are helpful when it comes to presenting factual evidence in court.

The camera also has a few extra bells and whistle, which I find extremely helpful first it?s easy to change the film. When I can not take any more pictures I know I?m out of film, I grab another cartridge slide it in, close the flap, and I?m ready for the next photo. There is also an adjustable hand strap that makes it easy for me to grab the camera in a hurry.

Even though this camera is not as big as the original Polaroid 600 Business Edition which was the standard camera used in this Investigative Unit several years ago. Although the Polaroid Spectra Pro camera is bulky it gets the job done. Bruises fade with time, but my photos depicting injuries do not at least for five years.