Do 3D face images capture cues of strength, weight, and height better than 2D face images do?

Abstract

A large literature exists investigating the extent to which physical characteristics (e.g., strength, weight, and height) can be accurately assessed from face images. While most of these studies have employed two dimensional (2D) face images as stimuli, some recent studies have used three dimensional (3D) face images because they may contain cues not visible in 2D face images. We know of no direct empirical tests of this claim and the equipment required for 3D face images is considerably more expensive than that required for 2D face images. Consequently, we will test whether 3D face images capture cues of strength, weight, and height better than 2D face images do by directly comparing the accuracy of strength, weight, and height ratings of 2D and 3D face images taken simultaneously.