A compact device for capturing an imprint of a body part working by total reflection with dark background. The device includes a plurality of optically coupled elements including: a first transparent plate including a top face on which the body part bearing the imprint to be imaged can rest; a light source; a screen opaque to light situated below the first transparent plate including a network of holes; a second transparent plate situated below the opaque screen; and a sensor capable of generating an imprint image situated below the second transparent plate; each transparent plate having a refractive index greater than a refractive index of air, and the light source being able to be positioned at the level of the screen to directly illuminate the top face or below the screen to illuminate the top face through the holes.