What is the first step in the process of fingerprinting?

The first step in the process of fingerprinting involves dipping the brush in powder. This action is crucial as it prepares the brush to collect fingerprint powder, which is then applied to a surface where the print is located. Fingerprinting typically begins with the selection of appropriate powder that adheres to the oils and residues left by the fingers. By first dipping the brush, the fingerprint examiner ensures that the brush is properly loaded with powder, which will effectively reveal the latent print when it is gently brushed over the surface.

After this initial step, the examiner can proceed to carefully apply the powder over the area of interest to visualize the fingerprint. Only after the print has been revealed can other steps, such as lifting it with tape or applying chemical reagents, be successfully conducted. These subsequent actions are dependent on the identification of the print through the application of the powder. Thus, dipping the brush in powder is essential and correctly identified as the first step in the fingerprinting process.