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Guide for the Artist

NCJ Number
214618
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 56 Issue: 3 Dated: May/June 2006 Pages: 388-401
Author(s)
Charles T. Jackson
Date Published
May 2006
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This paper provides a guide and a systematic approach to facial feature placement intended for composite artists.
Abstract
A systematic approach to facial feature placement, determining page orientation, image size, and vertical and horizontal issues can be a valuable tool to beginning artists in helping with composite images. Utilizing a modified system of grids and templates, which in the 1980s proved to be useful to composite artists in the forensic community, a new technique allows an artist to take a systematic approach to a composite image without affecting the proportions of selected reference features. A recommended order of how to place selected features on the guide is: eyes and eyebrows, nose, mouth and lips, lower face shape, and chin, ears, and upper head and hair. This paper offers a detailed, step-by-step instruction on the use of this guide and the associated systematic approach to facial feature placement. It provides initial steps and facial feature placement order. 21 figures, 1 reference