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
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Portions of this paper were presented at the 38th annual meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, February 14, 1986.

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.