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Value of Shadow in Footwear and Tire Track Evidence Recovered by Photographic Techniques

NCJ Number
113371
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 38 Issue: 3 Dated: (May-June 1988) Pages: 91-97
Author(s)
E D Hamm
Date Published
1988
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article provides guidelines for photographing tire-track and footwear impressions for comparison with suspects' footwear and tires.
Abstract
If a photograph is taken properly, the type of camera should have little effect on the finished product, but the camera should have specialized flash photography capability. The flash unit should have variable power settings and be capable of extension from the camera for side lighting, with the exposure sensor remaining on the camera body. Black-and-white film is preferable. The photographic shot should fill the frame, and a scale should be present in the photograph. All impressed marks should be photographed with oblique lighting. The light angle produces shadows in the mark that can reveal individual and class characteristics important in the individualization of the object responsible for the track. Several photographs should be made as the flash unit is moved around the impressed mark, making a number of exposures without changing the camera position. A vertical projection of about 6 mm should be included in the photograph as a reference. 5 figures, 1 reference.