NCJ Number
193702
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 52 Issue: 1 Dated: January/February 2002 Pages: 29-33
Date Published
January 2002
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article examine field use of fluorescing fingerprint powders.
Abstract
A popular technique for locating fingerprints is the use of fluorescent powder and a blue excitation filter attached to a flashlight with an orange viewing/barrier filter. Use of a blue excitation filter with an electronic flash involves attaching the blue filter directly to the flash and holding the orange viewing/barrier filter over the camera lens. However, there is a loss of illumination caused by the cylindrical filter tube blocking part of the rectangular flash head. In addition, the only way this filter/flash system would work is with high-speed films, rarely used by the average police department. The article describes modifications and specifications for this set-up that would render it "highly effective." In summation, this fluorescing technique was devised to provide a quick and accurate way to photograph fingerprints in the field. As with all powdering techniques, results will vary with surface quality and texture. When using this technique outside, determine if the surface reflections are too severe and, if possible, have control over the lighting situation. Figures