Centre of Forensic Sciences About the Centre

Documents and Photoanalysis

Documents are examined to determine whether they are authentic, if they have been altered and how they relate to a person, thing, event or time. They can be authenticated by comparing the pens, pencils, inks, paper and printing processes used to produce them and by examining them to detect and decipher erasures, indentations and alterations. Comparing handwriting and signatures can identify or eliminate a particular writer.

The camera and the microscope, combined with various types of radiation (infrared, ultraviolet, x-ray, laser), filters and films, can reveal facts not apparent to the naked eye. Photoanalysis contributes significantly to criminal investigations and court proceedings by:

• making physical comparisons of, for example, paper matches, plastic bags, adhesive tapes, wires, cables, footwear impressions and torn, worn or cut edges;
• deciphering obliterations, alterations, and other marks on a variety of surfaces;
• enhancing images from videotapes and photographic materials; and
• determining the authenticity of photographs.