True or False: It is best to photograph prints before lifting them from a surface.

Photographing prints before lifting them from a surface is essential for a couple of significant reasons. First, capturing the condition and quality of the prints as they are found provides a record that can be vital for later analysis and investigation. This documentation serves as an evidentiary baseline that illustrates how the prints were situated within the context of the crime scene, which can be crucial for court presentations.

Secondly, lifting prints can sometimes disturb the surface or alter the print itself, making the original context irretrievable. By taking photographs beforehand, investigators ensure that they preserve all potential evidence that may be lost during the lifting process. Essentially, this method adheres to best practices in forensic science, prioritizing the integrity and comprehensive documentation of evidence.

The other options suggest limitations or exceptions that are not aligned with these best practices and may put vital evidence at risk of being compromised.