A complete listing of VIRIN codes is contained in
OPNAVINST 5290.1 (series). Some of the more
commonly used VIRIN codes are as follows:
OTT–overhead transparency
SCN–still photographic negative, color
SPN–still photographic negative, black and white
SPT–still photographic transparency
VSP–video still
VTC–videotape cassette
Each set of characters in the markings of VI
products is separated by a hyphen. An example of a
VIRIN is as follows: the first product of FY 93 filed by
the Fleet Imaging Command Pacific, San Diego; the
subject is classified Secret and was shot by a photog-
rapher using a still-video camera. The VIRIN is as
follows:
NO108-VSP-93-000001-SE
Each authorized imaging facility is assigned a
separate DVIAN code. Each original VI product that is
marked and filed by your imaging facility must be
recorded in the VIRIN log. The VIRIN-log entries must
consist of the VIRIN assigned to each original product,
the job-order number, format, subject matter, camera-
person or artist's name, and final disposition of the
product. Like the job-order log, the six-digit sequence
number in the VIRIN log is reset to 000001 the first day
of the new fiscal year.
Still Photography
14-11
Negatives are marked with the VIRIN on the base
side, outside the usable image area with permanent ink
Roll negatives are cut into strips and each strip is
assigned a separate VIRIN. Individual frames on the
strip are then identified by letters (A, B, C, D, and so
on). Frames within the strip that are not intended for
filing should not be assigned a letter; however, they must
not be crossed out.
Transparencies must be mounted in plastic or
cardboard mounts with the VIRIN marked on the mount.
For still, electronic floppy disks, mark the outside of
them with the VIRIN, using permanent ink
Prints
Images that are stored locally must be protected.
Standard, VI file cards are commonly used throughout
the Navy to protect and file photographic images. These
file cards may be color coded to distinguish classi-
fication, subject matter, time frame, and so forth.
Standard file cards are made of sturdy paper stock A
print of the image, the VIRIN, and the classification are
included on the face side of the file card, and the
negative and caption are attached to the back.
Downgrading instructions must be included for
classified images. All negatives filed or handled must be
protected by negative preservers.
Photographic prints are marked on the base side
with the same VIRIN assigned to the original negative
Photographic negatives and prints should be
carefully stored in a file cabinet so they are protected.
or transparency. Prints must also include the date the
original photograph was taken and the name and address
of the originating activity.
Unclassified photographs that are cleared for public
release according to the Department of the Navy Public
Affairs Policy and Regulations Manual, SECNAVINST
5720.44 (series), must be stamped-“United States Navy
Photography. Please credit USN PHOTO.”
Classified prints must include the security classifi-
cation, classification authority, appropriate down-
grading and declassification instructions, and be
stamped “United States Navy Photography.”
Photographic prints of mishaps, accidents
(including property damage and personal injury), and
other types of evidence that are not releasable under the
Freedom of Information Act must be stamped “United
States Navy Photography."
Motion Media
Each motion-media roll of film, cassette, or disk
must be identified with the same information as
still-imaging products. However, the data must be
recorded at the beginning of the tape for a minimum of
5 seconds viewing time. The VIRIN should also appear
on the outside of the cassette or reel, so the product can
be identified without actually viewing it. When possible,
the VIRIN should be included on the slate. When the
VIRIN is included on the slate, all information is
provided in the same frame.
NOTE: Remember that all Navy imaging products
forwarded to a visual information records center for
pre-accessioning must be accompanied by a Visual
Information Caption Sheet, DD Form 2537.
FILING IMAGING PRODUCTS
