Improvements in Image Capture for Practitioners

• NCJ Number: 233257
• Date Published: August 2008
• Length: 3 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2007-MU-MU-K008
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Report (Technical Assistance)
• Award: Sensors, Surveillance, and Biometric Technologies Center of Excellence

Annotation

This paper recommends techniques and procedures for capturing images that will reduce false negative and increase true positive identification rates.

Abstract

The first of 10 recommendations indicates that the capture station should be able to photograph subjects at adjustable heights by raising, lowering, and/or tilting the camera. Second, the illumination of the capture station should be positioned so that photo portrait shadows are minimized. Third, capture-station illumination should also be performed so there is no interference with other operations in the capture station location. Fourth, the capture station should be equipped with auto-calibration and auto-focus. Fifth, the capture station should provide immediate, automatic adjustment to compensate for changing lighting conditions and varying applicant skin tones; the capture station should also permit manual adjustment for lighting conditions, with default capture station settings automatically restored after the photo is taken. Sixth, if available light is not able to capture an acceptable photo, the capture station should have the capability of alerting the operator. Seventh, the capture station should be able to prompt the technician when a full frontal image of the applicant's face is not captured. Eighth, the capture station should be able to validate that the applicant's photo image is appropriately centered in the image capture area; the capture station should prompt the technician if the applicant's photo image is not appropriately centered in the image capture area. Ninth, the capture station should provide for correct repositioning of the image area; this can be an automated or manual process. Tenth, the capture station should have the capability of alerting the technician when the photo image is unacceptable for capture (e.g., too dark, not centered, etc.) and thus require a new capture.