What is the method required to see latent prints?

The method of lifting latent prints with adhesive tape is commonly used because it is effective and relatively easy to execute in various environments where prints may be found. Adhesive tape has the ability to pick up the oils, dirt, and other residues left behind by a person's fingers, which makes it suitable for transferring the latent print onto a more durable or visible surface, such as a backing card, where it can be preserved for further analysis.

This method is particularly valuable because it can be applied to many surfaces, including non-porous materials. Additionally, after lifting the print with the adhesive tape, investigators can enhance the visibility of the print using powder or other visualization techniques to aid in identification and comparison.

Other methods, while valid in certain contexts, are not always practical for initial retrieval of latent prints. For instance, advanced imaging techniques and chemical reagents may require specialized equipment or conditions that are not always available in the field. Physical lifting from the surface is also effective but may not provide as clear or complete a print as the adhesive tape method.