What is a requirement for conducting a photo array?

A crucial requirement for conducting a photo array is that it should be a serial single photo array, meaning each photograph is presented to the witness individually rather than all together at once. This method helps minimize the risk of the witness being influenced by the other photos and ensures that they focus solely on each image without distractions from surrounding images. Presenting photos serially allows for a more controlled evaluation and reduces the likelihood of suggestiveness or misidentification.

When photo arrays are conducted as groups, witnesses may inadvertently make decisions based on comparative features among the images, rather than independently assessing each individual photograph. This can compromise the reliability of the identification process and ultimately impact the integrity of the investigation. Therefore, presenting images in a single manner is a key factor in maintaining the validity of the witness's identification.