The early 20th century was a pivotal moment in the history of criminal justice, marked by the widespread adoption of “scientific” methods of identification and documentation. At the heart of this revolution was the mugshot. Far from being mere photographs, these stark, standardized portraits were the culmination of a movement to professionalize policing and create a universal system for tracking and identifying criminals. While their original purpose was purely objective—to capture a likeness for a police file—these images have since transcended their utilitarian origins, offering a haunting and intimate glimpse into the lives of those who existed on the margins of society.