Optical macro imaging is a proven instrumentation technology that, when applied to the evaluation of surface defects, provides more reliable and repeatable results than are obtainable with traditional human visual evaluation methods. This is achieved through the use of controlled illumination conditions (geometry and intensity), high-resolution digital image capture and advanced algorithm-based image and data analysis methodologies. The use of optical imaging techniques eliminates the deleterious influences of human subjectivity by digitally capturing all sample images under the same enhanced illumination conditions and then subjecting them to a consistent image analysis administered by proprietary computer software. This paper describes the applicability of optical imaging techniques to the analysis of coated and uncoated surfaces that have undergone either destructive exposures or destructive testing conditions, such as: mar, scratch and gravelometer testing.