# Are eigenfaces same as eigenvectors?

I'm trying to understand the difference between eigenvectors and eigenfaces, are they different names for same concepts?

I ask this because I got confused when I am trying to compute eigenvectors for a set of images using python and numpy (I have asked a different question about this on stackoverflow):

eigen_values, eigen_vecotrs = np.linalg.eig(cov_matrix)


However when I try to plot these eigenvectors (after reshaping them to correct size) what I get is a set of images like:

which are not like the expected:

• An eigenvector has a mathematical definition which is widely understood. What is an eigenface? – Sycorax says Reinstate Monica Nov 11 '18 at 19:24
• @MartijnWeterings My result should look like this. I've got another question at so that might help understanding what is the problem. – Ravexina Nov 12 '18 at 18:25
• @MartijnWeterings Thanks, I'm able to plot the average image... "The problem is related to programming", It might be... I hope that I get an answer at stackoverflow. – Ravexina Nov 12 '18 at 20:05
• I think this should be left open. @MartijnWeterings was nice enough to note that my answer was a good one for the question asked. Even if Ravexina has another question as well as this one, this one is useful. – Peter Flom - Reinstate Monica Nov 18 '18 at 9:40