Final answer:
It is essential to photograph major evidence at a crime scene before it is moved to preserve the integrity of the investigation. This step is fundamental in ensuring that the scene is documented in its original state for later analysis and legal proceedings.
Step-by-step explanation:
When photographing a crime scene, it is crucial to photograph major evidence items before they are moved. This initial step in crime scene documentation serves to capture the scene as it was originally found, preserving important details that will be scrutinized during the investigation and potentially in court. While advanced medical imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scanning, can be used later to localize injuries, on the crime scene, immediate tools like a cotton-tipped applicator are sometimes the simplest and only option for indicating evidence or trauma without altering the scene. Moving evidence or the victim requires careful consideration and should be done only after thorough documentation to ensure the integrity of the investigation.