Can Photographers Work As Private Investigators?

July 6, 2021 - Reading time: 6 minutes
Updated on: August 7, 2025

Whichever way that you look at it, the photography market is saturated with thousands and thousands of skilled photographers working across the UK. Many photographers seek to venture out into as many forms of work as possible, and private investigation is a potential market which some photographers will consider venturing into. So, can photographers venture into the detective industry? 

Yes, photographers can work as private investigators and are often able to gather high quality images during surveillance assignments.  However, just because you know how to take photographs, doesn’t mean that you should be working as a private investigator. All agents should be equipped with the relevant training before working on surveillance cases. 

Why photographers can make great private investigators

When it comes to working as a private investigator, photography and videography plays a huge role. Often is the case that an investigator will sit in wait for hours on end, waiting for the right moment to take that one desired photo of the subject in a compromising position.

As any photographer will tell you, point and shoot cameras have their limitations, especially for long distance photography or in low light. Taking a good shot in many conditions will require a DSLR camera with a suitable lens.

Most point and shoot cameras will provide optical zoom before switching to digital zoom; when the camera reaches its limit for optical zoom it will simply enhance the image that it has captured by zooming in on it digitally. In order to take things a step further, a DSLR camera with a suitable lens will be required.

Most photographers will have at least 3-5 lenses for their cameras, and will choose the most appropriate lens for each use case.

For example, a photographer might keep a 14mm wide angle lens which can be used to capture large areas in one photo, a 50 mm lens which is more suited to close range photography, a 18-140mm which is a close to medium range lens, and critically a lens which is suited to long range photography.

For long range photography, we would typically use a lens which has a focal length of at least 300-400mm or longer.

In many cases during surveillance or undercover assignments we also use pin hole cameras which can be hidden in common objects and used to photograph a subject without their knowledge.

For skilled photographers with the right equipment and knowhow, working for a detective agency can make a lot of sense.

Getting the right training

Being a great photographer won’t necessarily make you a great private investigator; and any agent that is tasked on working a surveillance case should have already received formal training on the best practices to avoid being caught by the subject and to ensure that the best possible evidence is captured in each case.

While there are hundreds or even thousands of different “private investigation courses” to be found on the internet, we would suggest doing your research and making sure that you choose a reputable course which is known and respected by detective agencies.

Generally, courses which are based solely on the internet will not provide adequate training and are not held in high esteem by detective agencies. It’s worth going the extra mile and receiving hands on, “in person” training, if you are serious about pursuing a career in the detective industry. Such training is offered by various providers across the UK.

For the most up-to-date information on training courses and qualifications recommended by us, please read our “How to become a private investigator” article.

Choosing a suitable vehicle for surveillance

If you decide to work on surveillance cases using your own vehicle, then you should consider the type of car you have and how it might be used. Surveillance assignments can span over several hours in some cases, and you should be able to remain in your vehicle comfortably for long periods, with enough space for your camera/tripod setup.

Remaining hidden inside your vehicle during static surveillance is another point to consider… Most surveillance agents will tint their vehicle’s windows so that they are able to take photographs discreetly and without being noticed by the subject or anyone else.

Some investigators will even purchase a second vehicle for use during surveillance assignments, such as an inexpensive van or minivan which can be kitted out with photography equipment. 

For more information on surveillance vehicles, check out our articles “Window tint for private investigators” and “What type of cars do private investigators drive?”.

Working as a private investigator is not for everyone

Lying in wait for hours at a time in order to photograph a person as part of an accident injury claim investigation, or perhaps a subject suspected of infidelity, is worlds away from the typical duties of a photographer; and working as a private investigator is not for everyone.

Working as a private investigator can involve long, unsociable hours, it can be boring at times and unnerving at other times. 

Aside from the boredom, some people are simply not capable of working within the detective industry; they feel nervous or as though they are doing something wrong. A good investigator will need to put their own feelings aside, they will need to act with confidence and for the best possible results.

Before pursuing a career within our industry, you would be wise to seriously consider whether it is a profession that you are capable of and whether you would feel comfortable in fulfilling the role of a private investigator.

Reasons to Use a Process Server in the UK

July 4, 2021 - Reading time: 4 minutes
Updated on: August 7, 2025

When you need legal papers to be served on someone in the UK, employing a process server is crucial to ensure the documents are served correctly and legally.

What is a Process Server?

A professional UK process server is the individual who correctly delivers legal documents to a defendant or recipient. Different court orders and summons categories require specific service rules. UK-trained process servers know these and confirm the correct procedure before serving.

13 Reasons to Use a Process Server in the UK

Here are solid reasons to hire a UK process server to serve legal documents:

1. Ensure legal compliance and correct service
A professional UK process server ensures your service follows the Civil Procedure Rules and court requirements. Incorrect service can lead to case dismissal and wasted time.

2. Expertise in diverse document types
UK process servers understand service requirements for injunctions, statutory demands, divorce petitions, non-molestation orders and more.

3. Impartial and professional handling
Process servers are independent, objective professionals who prevent accusations of bias or improper motive.

4. Email or phone delivery is not valid
Contacting someone by email or phone does not constitute formal service and is not accepted by UK courts.

5. Safe handling of confrontational situations
Process servers are trained to manage hostility, unexpected reactions or difficult environments. They deliver documents calmly, safely and without escalating conflict.

6. Avoid personal confrontation
Handing documents yourself may be distressing or uncomfortable. A process server removes the emotional burden.

7. Some courts require independent serving
Courts often specify that documents must be served by a third party. A professional process server meets this requirement.

8. Expertise in tracing hard-to-find individuals
If the recipient is evasive or has gone off-grid, UK process servers often use professional tracing methods to locate them.

9. Skilled at serving in sensitive locations
Need to serve someone in prison? Process servers are familiar with protocols for serving documents within Her Majesty’s Prison Service.

10. Due diligence and legal professionalism
UK process servers follow correct legal procedures, maintain detailed records and deliver documents in a lawful and professional manner.

11. Legal proof of service provided
They supply a Statement of Service, Certificate of Service or Affidavit that is admissible in court as official proof the documents were served properly.

12. Efficient and traceable delivery
Many UK process servers use GPS tracking and digital tools to provide real-time updates and timestamped proof of delivery.

13. Timely service across the UK and internationally
Professional networks allow process servers to serve documents nationwide and abroad, following proper international protocols when required.

It Makes Sense to Hand Over to Professionals

Serving legal papers can seem straightforward at first, but the reality is that it often involves complex rules, evasive individuals and the need for valid proof of service. It’s usually more efficient and secure to hand the task to trained professionals.

When you hire a UK process server, they will ask for relevant details about the recipient, including any known addresses, contact history and circumstances. That helps them complete the service successfully and within the law.

Learn more about process serving by PrivateInvestigators‑UK.

How Police Detectives and Private Investigators are Different

July 3, 2021 - Reading time: 8 minutes
Updated on: August 7, 2025

Private investigators work for private individuals and companies (this is why we use the word “private” in the phrase “private investigators”), whereas police detectives work for law enforcement agencies which are funded by governments, effectively making them “public investigators”. This is the main difference between police detectives and private investigators, however, there are many other differences which we will explore deeper in this article.

1. Less red tape and paperwork

Private investigators are typically bound by less regulations and red tape than police detectives. Whereas the police will typically need abide by a myriad of ever-changing regulations, ethical standards policies, risk assessments, along with various other forms of bureaucratic form filling and box ticking; private investigators typically have less formalities to deal with, even in jurisdictions where a regulatory body licenses private investigators.

Of course, many detectives that work in law enforcement eventually decide to pursue careers within the private investigation industry instead; and many of our colleagues that have taken this leap will comment on their relief to avoid paperwork and box ticking which forms a big part of modern policing in the UK. 

2. More discretion 

Police detectives are in many cases bound by the decisions of other people; whether that be a senior investigating officer or a prosecution lawyer deciding not to pursue a case. Private investigators have more freedom to act on instructions that are provided by their clients, without interference from other people or bodies.

3. More flexible working hours

As private investigators, we often take on cases which are limited to an allocated time. However, if the case takes an unforeseen turn, then our client may ask us to work overtime. Depending on the case, we can work from the evening until the early hours of the morning, or purely during normal business hours.

Working within a detective agency provides a certain amount of freedom to delegate work to specific agents as needed. Whereas police detectives may need to work a certain amount of hours in order to be eligible for their salaries, private investigators have a lot more freedom to arrange their working hours and concentrate time on cases as needed.

4. More freedom over gadgets and equipment

While we don’t mean to suggest that police detectives are underequipped (this is definitely not the case), private investigators can sometimes have more freedom over the type of equipment and gadgets which they can use, depending on the agency.

For example, if one of our private investigators feels that it would benefit the case, (s)he might decide to spontaneously pull out a drone in order to discreetly monitor a subject. While police detectives certainly can use technology such as drones, they might seldom be able to decide that doing so could benefit the case at a moment’s notice, and use one without seeking permission from higherups.

Private investigators often spend a substantial amount of time (and money!) choosing their camera gear, lenses, discreet cameras, and any other equipment which might benefit a case. We can effectively use whichever gear we decide is appropriate, without seeking approval or funding.

5. Detectives investigate crime

This may seem like an obvious point though it should be mentioned… Police detectives are usually tasked with investigating crimes, of varying severities and associated risks. Private investigators, on the other hand, can investigate anything from infidelity, to accident injury claims, fraud, and a long list of other cases.

Private investigators typically will not delve into criminal investigations, though this can depend on the jurisdiction – investigators in north America more commonly accept criminal cases, whereas in the UK this is less common. Whether a private investigator is looking into a criminal matter or a personal dilemma, all investigations are completed with the same level of skill, dedication, and attention to detail.

6. Police detectives can access confidential data

One of the major advantages held by police detectives is their ability to access confidential data and information which is off-limits to normal members of the public. Law enforcement agencies around the world have access to vast amounts of records and intelligence data which can be used whilst conducting investigations.

While private investigators do not have access to the same information as police detectives, they are able to utilize public records, and information from third parties such as social media providers, to help locate people or assist during investigations.

7. Detectives can carry self-defence equipment

Police detectives around the world will often carry firearms as part of their ordinary work. In the UK of course, detectives may not ordinarily carry firearms but may instead have access to PAVA spray or Tasers.

By contrast, private investigators working in the UK have absolutely no rights to carry firearms, or any object which could be used for the purpose of self-defence. In the UK at least, private investigators have no special rights to carry firearms or any weapons at all… And rightfully so. A competent investigator will not make themselves known to the subject or anyone else. When conducted properly, the risks involved with private investigation should be kept to an absolute minimum and there should be no need for an agent to possess self-defence equipment. 

8. Different investigative techniques

Police detectives are often bound by conventional investigative techniques which must be used in order to ensure that evidence is admissible and meets the relevant thresholds for prosecution. The evidence must stand up to scrutiny and have been gathered within the relevant police guidelines.

Private investigators on the other hand have more freedom to gather evidence using unconventional methods. Whilst private investigators are not allowed to break the law, they are free to use more imaginative tactics which might be described as immoral by some.

Of course, the techniques used during any given investigation will largely depend on the intended use for our evidence in each case. If we are gathering evidence for use in civil courts, for example, then care should be taken to ensure that all evidence gathered is admissible.

9. More resources and funding

We often read about police budget cuts and funding issues. However, when the police decide that a matter is truly worthy of their attention, they will typically receive adequate funding in order to conduct a full and thorough investigation to the best of their abilities.

When police are tasked with conducting surveillance, for example, they may use several agents, or even a dozen or more people working on the case at any given time.

During private investigations however, we are often confined by our client’s budgets. Surveillance assignments are often conducted by just one investigator at a time, which is often adequate, though adding agents will almost always benefit a surveillance case.

Other times clients may decide to stop an investigation at a time when the investigator believes they are close to making a breakthrough.

Whatever the case, having a higher budget for an investigation will ensure better results in virtually every scenario. As private investigators we must cater to our clients’ budgets in each case. 

Choosing a career in private investigation

Many of the investigators that work for our agency come from a previous background in law enforcement. Police detectives are traditionally held in the highest esteem within our industry, and we are always eager to work with more former law enforcement detectives.

If you are interested in making the switch into private investigation, then feel free to read through our blog for more insights on the detective industry, or browse our homepage for more information about us and the services that we offer. 

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• What are private investigators allowed to do in the UK?
• Top reasons for hiring a private investigator

How Private Investigators Help Solicitors in the UK

June 28, 2021 - Reading time: 7 minutes
Updated on: August 7, 2025

Private investigators can be hired by members of the public under many different circumstances, from investigating cheating partners to catching fly-tippers. However, private investigators also work closely with law firms and often receive instructions directly from solicitors on a wide range of legal matters.

Such is the value of private investigators to the legal sector that some solicitors in the UK rely on PIs in nearly every case they handle [source]. Below are some of the key services provided by private investigators that assist solicitors in civil, family, and criminal law cases.

1. Injury claim investigations

Personal injury investigations are one of the most common reasons solicitors hire private investigators. If someone is claiming to be unable to walk unaided, yet is seen playing football by a PI, that evidence can significantly weaken their case. In many situations, the claimant may drop their case entirely once confronted with surveillance footage or photographic evidence.

This type of evidence gathering helps law firms save time and money by avoiding lengthy and unnecessary litigation.

2. Process serving (legal document delivery)

Solicitors regularly need legal documents served on individuals or businesses. Hiring a private investigator as a process server ensures that documents are delivered properly, within legal guidelines, and with proof of service.

Common documents served by PIs in the UK include:

• Winding-up petitions
• Divorce petitions
• Bankruptcy papers
• Statutory demands
• Prohibition orders
• License applications

This service is especially useful when recipients are evasive or difficult to locate.

3. Support with divorce and family law cases

In divorce cases involving infidelity, hidden assets or child custody disputes, private investigators help gather evidence to support a solicitor’s case. The average divorce in the UK costs over £14,000 in legal and lifestyle costs, and the stakes can be far higher when property or business interests are involved.

Clear evidence of cheating or financial misconduct can be critical in achieving a fair settlement.

4. Tracing people and debtors

Private investigators are skilled in locating missing persons, evasive debtors, or former clients who have disappeared. Solicitors may need to trace individuals before initiating proceedings, serving documents, or enforcing court judgments.

Using public record searches, surveillance, social engineering, and proprietary databases, PIs can often locate subjects who are actively avoiding contact.

5. Interviewing witnesses or gathering statements

Interviewing witnesses or character references is another area where solicitors benefit from hiring a private investigator. In cases involving personal injury, fraud, or workplace incidents, PIs can collect statements or evidence that supports the solicitor’s legal strategy.

Hiring a PI can also reduce costs, as their fees are typically lower than those of qualified legal professionals.

6. Lie detector testing (polygraph services)

Polygraph testing is sometimes used to resolve disputes, clarify allegations, or support legal strategies in family or civil cases. Although lie detector results are not typically admissible in court, they can be used by solicitors as supporting material or to guide negotiations.

Private investigators who are trained in polygraph testing may conduct these exams in private residences or solicitor’s offices.

7. Locating hidden assets

Solicitors often instruct PIs to help trace assets that a person may be trying to conceal. This is particularly useful in divorce settlements, debt recovery cases, or business disputes where one party may be attempting to hide income, property, or other financial holdings.

Asset tracing helps ensure a fair and transparent outcome in legal proceedings.

8. Intellectual property investigations

Private investigators support solicitors in identifying and proving cases of intellectual property theft. This could involve tracking down counterfeit goods, identifying rogue suppliers, or collecting evidence of unauthorised brand use.

Evidence gathered by PIs can help build strong IP cases for court or settlement negotiations.

9. Social media and online investigations

Private investigators are frequently hired to conduct deep dives into a subject’s online presence. Social media platforms, forums, and other digital footprints can reveal useful information about behaviour, character, lifestyle, and associations.

Such evidence can support civil claims, background checks, family law matters, and more.

10. Background checks for due diligence

Whether a solicitor is working on a merger, hiring case, or business partnership vetting, private investigators can help conduct thorough background checks on individuals or companies. This ensures no surprises arise down the line and helps mitigate reputational or financial risk.

Due diligence investigations are especially valuable before signing contracts or entering legal agreements.

Work With PrivateInvestigators‑UK

These are just some of the ways solicitors in the UK rely on private investigators to support legal matters. From court-compliant surveillance and document delivery to witness interviews and asset tracing, private investigators can help strengthen your legal case and ensure a smoother process for clients.

PrivateInvestigators-UK is a trusted agency offering legal investigation services across the UK and internationally. Visit our homepage to learn more, or explore the rest of our blog for additional resources.

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