Key duplication machine

An identification system for duplicating keys, comprising:

• an outer shell having a slot formed therein to receive a master key;
• a retention mechanism configured to receive at least a portion of a master key;
• a backlight;
• at least one additional light configured to direct at least a portion of the light toward a front surface of the master key;
• and
• an optical imaging device configured to capture a silhouette image while the backlight is turned on, and to capture a second image when said at least one additional light is turned on;
• wherein:
• the silhouette image is used to aid in determining the proper key blank;
• and
• the second image is selectively used to quantify surface features of the existing key based on the type of key blank.