What is required to ensure clear photography of a footwear impression?

Clear photography of a footwear impression is best achieved using multiple oblique flashes. This technique involves positioning the light source at various angles relative to the impression. The oblique lighting helps to create shadows, enhancing the detail of the texture and any unique features in the impression. This is crucial, as footwear impressions can have intricate designs that may not be visible under direct light or flat lighting conditions.

Using multiple flashes allows for a more comprehensive capture of the impression, highlighting different aspects that may be crucial for analysis in forensic investigations. The oblique light helps to define the edges and depth of the impression, providing clearer images that can be used for comparison and documentation.

In contrast, a high ISO setting might introduce noise into the image, which could obscure important details. Front lighting alone tends to flatten the impression, providing less contrast and detail. A zoom lens could allow for closer images, but it doesn't inherently improve the clarity of the impression unless combined with effective lighting techniques. Thus, the use of multiple oblique flashes is a practiced method in forensics for ensuring that footwear impressions are photographed with the highest clarity and detail essential for analysis.