What should an investigator do to protect latent fingerprints from environmental factors?

To protect latent fingerprints from environmental factors, covering the item is essential. Latent fingerprints, which are made up of oils, sweat, and other substances left behind on surfaces, can be easily damaged or destroyed by environmental elements, such as rain, wind, heat, and contamination from other substances.

By covering the item, an investigator creates a barrier against these potential threats, preserving the latent prints for further analysis. This is particularly important when moving evidence from the crime scene to a more controlled environment, ensuring the quality and integrity of the fingerprints remain intact for forensic examination.

The other choices do not adequately prevent damage to latent fingerprints. Storing the item outdoors exposes it to the elements, while leaving the item exposed increases the risk of contamination and deterioration. Simply photographing the item may document the presence of fingerprints but does not protect them for future analysis, which is crucial for investigative purposes.