Types of Fingerprints

Direct prints are prints that are left in a medium that reveals them to the naked eye.  They could be when blood, ink, dirt, or grease on the finger come in contact with a smooth surface and in result they leave a friction ridge impression that is visible without having the need to be developed.

 Latent prints are prints that are not visible to the naked eye. These prints are formed from sweat from sebaceous glands on the body, water, salt, amino acids and oils contained in sweat. Before these prints can be seen or photographed they have to be developed. They can be developed by dusting, fuming or by using chemical reagents. These are also prints that are left from accidental contact with a surface, because of this they will sometimes not contain the full fingerprint or will be smudged or imperfect. Due to this it isn't as accurate as a direct print.

Plastic prints are indentions that are left in soft pliable surfaces, such as clay, paint, wax, etc. These types of prints can be viewed or photographed without the need to be developed.