For body/object surface 3-D documentation, this paper describes the classic forensic 3-D photogrammetry that uses classical conventional or digital reflex cameras. This is followed by descriptions of procedures for photogrammetry based 3-D optical scanning that uses the GOM TRITOP/ATOS II system. The procedures described are optical coordinate measuring system TRITOP, optical 3-D digitizing system ATOS, radiological body volume documentation, image fusion/merging the datasets, and the morphologic imprint and injury-causing instrument. Two forensic cases are presented to illustrate the documentation and practical use of the new techniques. The new approaches to a 3-D geo-metric documentation of injuries on the body surface and internal injuries in living and deceased cases are performed in a noninvasive and nondestructive manner. Using data fusion and animation options, it is possible to answer reconstructive questions about the dynamic development of patterned injuries (morphologic imprints) and to evaluate their link to suspected injury-causing instruments. These methods can be used in forensic medicine for both living and deceased persons. 20 figures and 17 references