Face localization in 2D frontal face images using luminosity profiles analysis

Abstract

Face detection from a single image represents a challenging task because of variability in scale, location, orientation and pose. Facial expression, occlusion, and lighting conditions also change the overall appearance of faces. In this work we propose a fast face localization method in 2D frontal face images, through eyes detection, based on the analysis of the horizontal and vertical profiles of image's average luminosity and the definition of rules describing the relations between these profiles and the positions of characteristic face elements. Experimental results over the AR face database show high rates of successful detection together with reduced computational times that make this method particularly suitable for real time applications. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2009.