Bloodstains on clothing or its absence is important evidence in any forensic investigation. The patterns can provide valuable information to a bloodstain pattern analyst. Once blood is located it needs to be documented utilizing notes and photography. Documentation can be difficult when bloodstains have been deposited on dark or multicolored fabric. Additional problems exist with fabrics that have been stained by liquids other than blood. The use of Photoshop© to create composites is an excellent way to assist with note taking and documentation of bloodstains on clothing or any other object. Exhibits can also be created to assist with trial testimony.

This documentation process can be achieved by the use of luminol photography and then creating a composite photograph in Photoshop©. The steps outlined are aimed at an analyst with previous Photoshop© skills. Photoshop© CS4 was the version used for the examples presented in this paper.

Example A: Back Side of Trousers Stained with Paint and Blood

Figure 1. Image 1 of trousers with proper lighting prior to the application of luminol.

Figure 2. Image 2 of trousers with luminol applied.

Figure 3. The composite of images 1 and 2 of the trousers.

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