Composite imagery refers to graphic images made up from the combination of individually described component parts. Probably the best known type of composite imagery in police work is the composite drawing of a face based on the description of a crime victim or witness. Composite art can also be done to depict full figures, objects or other evidence to aid in criminal investigations.
The term composite image refers specifically to images produced from component parts with assistance of witness input, not those based on photographs or skulls. Sometimes, other types of forensic art such as child age progressions, fugitive updates, postmortem images or facial reconstructions are erroneously called “composites”.
In addition to strong drawing skills, forensic artists who do composites should have a sound foundation in memory-enhancing interview techniques as well as sensitivity to crime victims.