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Focus Stacking: How to Simultaneously Focus on Several Photographs Using Adobe Photoshop CS4

NCJ Number
238934
Journal
Identification Canada Volume: 35 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2012 Pages: 10-17
Author(s)
Patrick Gould
Date Published
March 2012
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article discusses a method that allows forensic identification specialists to simultaneously focus on several objects when photographing a crime scene.
Abstract
This article discusses how forensic identification specialists (FISs) can use Adobe Photoshop CS4's focus stacking functionality to add dimension to the photographic representation of a crime scene. The author, a FIS, presents detailed, step-by-step instructions for using Adobe Photoshop for combining several photographs, each having different focus points, into one image where all the items in the photograph are in focus. This process is an effective tool for use by members of the forensics team who may find themselves in situations where they are required to take photographs involving several items across a crime scene while maintaining a sharp focus throughout the final image. The author does note that if this tool is used by the FIS, it is the responsibility of the FIS to advise the court of any enhancements made to photographs submitted as evidence. 6 figures