Camera RFI.docx

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

FINANCE AND FACILITIES DIVISION | PROCUREMENT SECTION

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI)

Field Camera Replacement RFI-07002025-Camera

DISCLAIMER:

This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a request for proposal (RFP) or quote. It is not a solicitation and should not be interpreted as a commitment by the government. Responses are not considered offers, and the government holds no obligation to award a contract based on this notice. No funds are available for response preparation or sample submissions. Participation is strictly voluntary, and submitted samples (if applicable) will not be returned.

INTRODUCTION

Responses to this Request for Information (RFI) will help define final requirements and identify qualified vendors capable of meeting them. The following description presents preliminary requirements envisioned for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI. Information gathered through this process may contribute to developing acquisition strategies for competitive solicitations.

Background of Mission

The Evidence Response Team Unit (ERTU) supports FBI field office Evidence Response Teams (ERTs) in professionally and systematically collecting evidence for investigations. It achieves this by providing training, equipment, and forensic expertise, ensuring adherence to evolving forensic science techniques.

ERTs operate globally across diverse environments, including extreme and hazardous conditions. Photography is a key method for evidence collection, requiring specialized training beyond basic skills. Crime scene photography training focuses on comprehensive documentation, including overall, medium-range, and close-up views. Digital cameras allow trainees to experiment with settings for optimal results.

Currently, all ERTs use the Nikon D-780 DSLR for scene documentation, meeting stringent Laboratory Division standards. The cameras must be rugged, long-lasting, and compatible with existing accessories. They are integral to training and field operations.

However, the D-780 model is at the end of its service life, with Nikon discontinuing production and support within two years. The industry is shifting to mirrorless camera systems, requiring new equipment investments. ERTU needs to replace 60 camera bodies to support training, operational deployments, and crime scene photography instruction, ensuring continuity and capability in forensic investigations.

Technical Specifications:

The Evidence Response Team (ERT) camera must be compact, durable, and highly functional, allowing personnel to carry it alongside essential accessories such as lenses, flash units, tripods, and protective gear. It should be rugged enough to endure extreme environmental conditions, including temperature fluctuations, wind, and humidity.

To meet Laboratory Division standards, the camera must produce forensic-quality images. The Operational Projects Unit (OPU) recommends an 18-55mm adjustable zoom lens, as it closely matches human vision and is widely accepted in legal proceedings. Essential technical features include a high-resolution sensor, excellent LCD screen clarity, and user-friendly operation with a minimal learning curve.

Additional critical specifications include a battery life of at least 1,500 shots, an adjustable rear screen, and seamless transition between manual and auto-focus. Given the frequent need to capture crime scenes in low-light conditions, the camera must support an ISO range of 100-25,000, ensuring optimal image quality in challenging environments.

Specific Use Cases

Latent Print Photography The Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE) and the Scientific Working Group for Imaging Technology (SWGIT) establish technical standards for Latent Print photography, requiring a minimum resolution of 1000 pixels per inch (ppi) at 1:1. They also recommend images be saved in a compression-free or lossless format, such as RAW or TIFF, to preserve forensic integrity.

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) supports these standards, stating that while lower-resolution images may retain some value, 1000 ppi is essential for accurate examination of degraded prints. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) reinforces this requirement in its guidelines.

Additionally, consultation with the FBI’s Latent Print Operations Unit (LPOU) confirmed these specifications and recommended the use of a 100mm-120mm flat-field macro lens to ensure high-precision forensic imaging.

Footwear & Tire Impression The Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence (SWGDE) recommends that footwear and tire impression images be captured in a compression-free or lossless format such as RAW or TIFF, with a minimum resolution of 8 megapixels (MP).

In 2021, the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) Footwear and Tire Subcommittee set a higher standard, recommending at least 12MP, which supports natural-size shoeprint photography at 300 pixels per inch (ppi), measuring 10 inches × 13 inches.

Consultation with the Questioned Documents Unit (QDU) Footwear/Tire Group (FTG) confirmed OSAC’s specifications, reinforcing the need for lossless image capture. Additionally, the QDU FTG recommends the camera include manual focus, off-camera flash capability, a built-in timer, a shutter release cable (or remote control), and a fixed normal focal-length lens (50mm equivalent on a full-frame sensor) or a zoom lens set to the appropriate normal focal length.

Definitions and Acronyms:

For consistency, please refer to the following definitions of terms and acronyms.

RAW image format - An image format that is unprocessed or minimally processed. Standard file extensions (and manufacturers who use them) include:

· NEF (Nikon)

· CR2 and CR3 (Canon)

· SRF and SR2 (Sony)

· TIFF

· DNG

Hash Algorithms – The use of complex mathematics to create a value that is typically represented as a string of hexadecimal characteristics (called a hash) on a given set of data. If the data changes, so will the hash.

Hash Function – A function that maps a bit string of arbitrary length to a bit string of fixed length. The function is expected to have the following three properties: (1) collision resistance, (2) preimage resistance, and (3) second preimage resistance.

Current Equipment:

The most current equipment purchased by ERTU for the Field ERT teams includes the following:

Nikon D780 DSLR camera body; resolution 25MP Nikkor 60mm flat-plane focus f/2.8G AF-S Micro AF ED lens Nikkor 24-85mm f/4G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom Lens Nikon SB-5000 Speedlight Flash EN-EL 15b rechargeable Lithium battery MCDC2 Remote Camera Trigger Release Cable SC-29 TTL Coiled Remote Cord

Current Market Research:

Market research has been conducted through internet searches, industry conferences, trade shows, and discussions with market representatives. Several potential camera manufacturers that may meet the requirements include Nikon, Canon, Sony, Leica, Panasonic, and Olympus.

Requirements:

Camera Body:

Technical Specifications:

· Must have removable, interchangeable lenses.

· Must be able to easily switch between Auto-Focus and Manual Focus.

· Must be able to capture images at a minimum nominal resolution of 1000 pixels per inch (ppi) at 1:1 at size of 3” x 2”.

· Preferable to have full-frame sensor.

· Must be able to capture images in a lossless or compression-free format.

· Must be able to capture images in a JPG format.

· Must have an adjustable rear-view screen, preferably LCD, to assist in

· Camera menu/setting navigation

· Pre-capture photo capture preview

· Post-capture photo review

· Preferable to have touch-screen capability with rear-view screen. However, if the camera has this capability, it must be able to be turned off.

· Must be able to capture images with ISO rating range of at least 50 – 32,000 (or manufacturer equivalent).

· Must be able to manually set exposure compensation.

· Must be able to manually adjust set exposure step increments (e.g. full stop, ½ stop, 1/3 stop increments).

· Must be able to capture images with aperture range of at least f/1.2 – f/64.

· Must be able to capture images through preset and manual settings, including

· Aperture Priority (fixed aperture; shutter speed is set by camera)

· Shutter Priority (fixed shutter speed; aperture is set by camera)

· Manual (independent user adjustment of Aperture and Shutter Speed)

· Default Program (camera assist/sets all three)

· Must be able to bracket exposures; Preferably minimum of 5 exposures.

· Must have a “hot-shoe” connection for external flash.

· Must be able to capture images with external flash, including flash set to following settings:

· Through-the-Lens (TTL)

· Bulb

· Manual

· Master/Remote

· Corded Connection

· With use of Master/Remote flash settings, must be able to differentiate between multiple flash unit sets.

· Must be able to manually set flash trigger speed.

· Preferably able to work with remote flash trigger units.

· Must save captured images to removable storage device, specifically SD card.

· May save captured images to additional removable storage, (i.e. second SD card, MicroSD card, CF card, XQD card, etc.).

· Must have ability to transfer/remove captured images directly from camera via tethered connection (e.g. USB, HDMI, or similar).

· Must not require Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or similar technology for removal of captured images from the camera.

· Preferable if camera has ability (but not be required for) to transfer/removal of captured images via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or similar technology.

· Must have ability to view captured images directly from camera via tethered connection (e.g. USB, HDMI, or similar).

· Preferable if camera has ability to view live pre-photo images via tethered connection (e.g. USB, HDMI, or similar).

· Preferable if camera has ability to view live pre-photo images via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or similar technology.

· Must be able to create unique file name format.

· Must be able to manually reset (image) file numbering sequence.

· Must be able to (if equipped) remove auto date/time (or similar) imprint on photo.

· Must have integrated means of attaching to tripod plate.

· Must have connections for removable camera strap and camera strap.

· Must have cover for lens attachment point.

· Must be able have a base platform for lenses and flashes that will not change regularly and will be supported for at least seven (7) years (Preferable ten (10)), to allow for interchangeability and continued use.

Environmental Specifications:

· Must be dust and water resistant to at least IP54 standards.

· Must withstand temperature variance from 0°F to 120°F.

Security Specifications:

· If device possesses Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or similar technology; user must be able to easily disable Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or similar technology.

· Preferably able to encrypt (hash, see supra) collected data to ensure accuracy and completeness of initial master copy of raw data upon extraction.

· Preferably able to cryptographically hash data to ensure security of raw data.

· If cryptographically hashed, must not require wireless transmission of data to allow subsequent decryption of raw data.

· Must be able to lock metadata of captured images.

· Must not automatically log geolocation of camera in metadata.

Lens (Macro):

Technical Specifications:

· Must be able to connect to, and work with, camera body.

· Must have a minimum aperture range of f/2.8 – f/32; preferable f/1.2 – f/32.

· Must be able to switch between Auto-Focus and Manual Focus.

· Preferable have vibration reduction.

· Preferable to be flat-field focus.

· Preferable focal length of 60mm.

· Acceptable focal length of approximately 100mm-120mm.

· Must have lens cover.

· Must have ability to accept threaded lens filters (e.g. Neutral Density, Polarization, Color, etc.).

Environmental Specifications:

· Must be dust and water resistant to at least IP54 standards.

· Must withstand temperature variance from 0°F to 120°F.

Security Specifications:

Lens (Telephoto/variable):

Technical Specifications:

· Must be able to connect to, and work with, camera body.

· Must have minimum aperture range of f/2.8 – f/32.

· Must have a minimum functional range of 24mm-85mm; preferable 24mm-120mm.

· Must be able to switch between Auto-Focus and Manual Focus.

· Preferable have vibration reduction.

· Must have lens cover.

· Must have ability to accept threaded lens filters (e.g. Neutral Density, Polarization, Color, etc.).

Environmental Specifications:

· Must be dust and water resistant to at least IP54 standards.

· Must withstand temperature variance from 0°F to 120°F.

Security Specifications:

Flash Unit:

Technical Specifications:

· Must be able to connect to, and work with, camera body.

· Must be able to capture images with external flash, including flash set to following settings:

· Through-the-Lens (TTL)

· Bulb

· Manual

· Master/Remote

· Corded Connection

· With use of Master/Remote flash settings, must be able to differentiate between multiple Flash unit sets.

· Must be able to be triggered remotely or with corded connection.

· Must be manually adjustable for flash strength.

· Must be able to be diffused.

Environmental Specifications:

· Must be dust and water resistant to at least IP54 standards.

· Must withstand temperature variance from 0°F to 120°F.

Security Specifications:

· If device possesses Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or similar technology; user must be able to easily disable Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or similar technology.

Accessories:

· Must have spare rechargeable battery compatible with Camera Body.

· Must have TTL Flash Cord/tether for operation of flash unit off-camera body.

· Must have Remote Trigger Release Cable (not Wi-Fi or Bluetooth required).

Environmental Specifications:

· All accessories must be dust and water resistant to at least IP54 standards.

· All accessories must withstand temperature variance from 0°F to 120°F.

CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS

This RFI is open to all business contractors for market research purposes only. The Government would like to know which firms can provide a product meeting the requirements listed above by identifying themselves, responding to this RFI.

The Government requests the following information to be in:

1. Company name, UEI number, NACIS code, and business size.

2. Provide evidence to show that your company can provide the required products (i.e., technical ability, personnel, and experience).

3. Address whether your company has a GSA Schedule and if they can provide these products on schedule. If able to provide the product on schedule, provide the schedule and SIN.

4. Information provided shall be succinct and related to the requested information in this RFI. All submissions shall be unclassified.

Required Information:

Contractor Legal/DBA Name:

Address:

Point of Contact:

Telephone:

Email Address:

UEI Number:

Cage Code:

Facility Clearance (if applicable):

Applicable NAICS Codes:

Standard Business Size:

GSA Schedule:

NASA SEWP Contract:

DISCLAIMER

This Request for Information (RFI) is issued solely for informational and planning purposes and does not constitute a solicitation. The government is not committed to issuing a solicitation or awarding a contract as a result of this announcement.

Per FAR 15.202(e), responses to this notice are not offers and cannot be accepted to form a binding contract. Additionally, no funds are available to cover the costs of response preparation or sample submissions. Participation is strictly voluntary, and submitted information will not be compensated or returned.

WHAT SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN YOUR RESPONSE:

All interested parties shall submit capability packages in response to this notice.

1. Do submit succinct, thoughtful responses to the requirements/questions listed in this RFI.

2. Do submit comments that address the FBI's requirements, assumptions, conditions, or contemplated approaches to this future acquisition.

3. Do submit information and suggestions that may encourage new, different, or innovative approaches that would result in products, solutions, and direct savings to the FBI.

WHAT SHOULD NOT BE INCLUDED IN YOUR RESPONSE:

1. Do not submit proposals or offers.

2. Do not submit past performance information or general descriptions of corporate experience.

3. Do not submit requests to be considered for award or to be notified of a future solicitation.

4. Do not submit requests to be added to a mailing list or distribution list.

5. Do not submit questions or comments not related to this RFI.

6. Do not respond via telephone.

RFI SUBMITTAL INSTRUCTIONS:

Questions shall be emailed to the below listed point of contact. Questions are due by 5:00 PM EST, August 25, 2025.

Submissions to this RFI shall be emailed to the below listed point of contact. Submissions are due by 5:00 PM EST, September 01, 2025.

Contracting Point of Contact: Adelle Bolton Email: albolton@fbi.gov image1.jpg image2.png