Recovery of 3D footwear impressions using a range of different techniques

Three-dimensional (plastic) footwear impressions are frequently found at, or in the vicinity of a crime scene, and may provide valuable form evidence intelligence. This paper compares traditional methods casting and/or two-dimensional photography with Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry. We focus both on recovery class characteristics (sole pattern) randomly acquired caused by damage. examine how different techniques influence visualization outsole features discuss what effect this have evidential value. Five shoes their associated three-dimensional made sand soil were compared using grid system tread descriptors commonly used UK. conclude that within limitations study SfM photogrammetry allows superior levels characteristics, giving better definition detail some instances. The use as complementary approach can therefore lead to potential increase