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What is it about?
A data set for evaluating the fairness of biometric algorithms is being created at Hochschule Darmstadt. The aim is to find out how different skin types affect the performance of existing facial recognition and iris recognition methods. The focus is on standardized passport-quality images in order to specifically analyze which skin type classes result in systematic performance differences.
What is being done?
Skin type is determined using colorimeter images and classified based on current metrics. In addition, passport photos and/or iris images are taken. The entire DAST-EX and DAIP-EX process takes approximately 20 minutes. Makeup is not an issue and doesn´t need to be removed for participation.
This includes:
12 passport photos with different cameras and lighting.
12 iris images with different lighting, with and without glasses (if you have your own glasses, please bring them with you).
Who can participate?
Our study requires a wide range of skin tones in order to evaluate the performance of biometric systems under realistic conditions. The basis for this is a classification into ten skin type classes (1–10), for which approximately 20 participants are planned for each class.
We therefore ask all interested parties to assess their approximate skin type themselves using the chart below. In order to ensure a balanced distribution in the data set, we may be unable to accept participants from classes that are already fully represented. This measure is solely for the purpose of achieving the scientifically necessary data balance and does not represent any evaluation of individual persons.
We thank you for your understanding and your support in the development of fair and reliable biometric systems.
Current distribution of participants by skin type (CST):
Skin type classification according to CST:
Skin type classification according to MST:
How can you participate?
Please book your appointment via our online calendar. The available times are continuously updated. If no appointments are currently available, we recommend checking the calendar regularly—new appointments are added on an ongoing basis.
The calendar can be accessed via the following link:
BOOK APPOINTMENTS HERE
Compensation
Participants in the data collection will receive a compensation. Passport photos can be sent on request.
Those who agree to participate in the entire DAST-EX procedure will receive an compensation of €30.
Where does the data collection take place?
Our photo studio is located in building D19, 2nd floor, left corridor, room 02.16. See map:
Contact:
If you have any questions or comments, you can also write to me directly:
fabian.stockhardt@h-da.de
Related projects:
We are not the only project collecting such data. Further information on related projects can be found here:
https://arxiv.org/abs/2410.21005
https://skintone.google/
Consent forms
The consent forms can be viewed and downloaded here:
DAST-EX and DAST-IN:
DAIP-EX und DAIP-IN