What type of lighting is best for searching prints?

Angled illumination at 45 degrees is optimal for searching prints because it enhances the visibility of any latent fingerprints that may exist on a surface. This technique creates shadows that reveal details in the ridges and grooves of the fingerprints, which might otherwise be invisible under different lighting conditions.

Using this angled approach allows for better definition of the prints, making it easier for the investigator to detect them. The shadows cast by the light can help outline the prints against the background, facilitating a more thorough examination of crime scene surfaces.

In contrast, bright fluorescent lighting, diffuse ambient lighting, and direct overhead lighting do not produce the same level of contrast and detail. Bright fluorescent lighting can sometimes wash out details, while diffuse ambient lighting may not provide the necessary directional contrast for revealing prints. Direct overhead lighting can also obscure details by not highlighting the ridges and depressions effectively. Therefore, angled illumination at 45 degrees is the preferred method for enhancing the visibility of fingerprints during evidence collection.