Here are a few helpful fingerprint (latent) lifting tips:
- When searching for latents on smooth surfaces (e.g. automobile paint and glass), try breathing on the area. The condensation of your breath will make prints stand out.
- If you have a surface that has not been cleaned in a while and has mineral build-up from rain, dirt or dust, use caution when dusting. This debris can absorb the prints’’ oils during the dusting process, destroying them completely or making them difficult to lift. If you can see the print, tape it and lift it. You are probably going to have a good print that will be useable on any good white backing material.
- Use your powder sparingly – you can use too much. I start with just the brush and the powder that remains in it from the last use. If I need more powder, I dump it into the lid of the jar so I don’'t contaminate my jar and don’'t overload my brush.
- When dusting a business floor for footprints, use a lot of powder -- most businesses mop after closing The floor cleaners do not evaporate well and the floor will be some what tacky and leave foot impressions. Start off with a regular amount of powder in a small area of the possible print, and keep adding until you get the right amount.