Facial recognition software relies on artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to analyse an individual's facial characteristics and verify their identity.
By scanning each face, the software extracts unique identifiers and compares them against a database of images for identification purposes.
Although facial recognition systems may differ in their functionalities — they generally follow a five-stage process:
Facial Detection
The first step in facial recognition is facial detection. This stage involves identifying and localising human faces within an image or video. Modern facial recognition systems can accurately detect and scan faces regardless of their orientation toward the camera. This initial step lays the foundation for subsequent analysis.
Facial Analysis
Once facial images are captured and analysed, the software proceeds to search databases and identify potential matches.
Facial recognition algorithms employ various criteria, such as the distance between the eyes or cheekbones, to determine potential matches within the database. This stage helps narrow down the search and identify individuals who closely resemble the scanned face.
Conversion of Image to Data
The third stage involves converting the face into a mathematical representation, known as a faceprint. Similar to the distinct patterns found in fingerprints — specific facial features play a crucial role in accurate recognition.
Through mathematical formulas and computations, the software generates a unique faceprint for the individual, which serves as a distinctive identifier.
Storage
In the fourth stage, the facial data obtained from the image extraction process is actively stored in a secure database. This biometric data can be cross-referenced in the future to allow access to previously authenticated users.
It's important to note that facial recognition systems do not store the actual image of a person's face. Instead, they only archive the facial template or mathematical representation derived from the facial features.
This approach helps protect individuals' privacy by ensuring that the stored data cannot be reverse-engineered to recreate the original facial image.
Matching
In the final stage, the facial recognition system compares the generated faceprint with a database of facial photos.
Mathematical algorithms consider various distinctive facial features such as bone structure and skin tone, to determine the closest match.
It is also in this stage that the system performs the commonly understood functions of ‘recognition’ and ‘verification’ throughout the entire facial recognition process.
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