What should be avoided in a photo array to ensure its effectiveness?

Ambiguous directions to witnesses should indeed be avoided in a photo array to ensure its effectiveness. Clear and straightforward instructions are crucial for a reliable identification process. When directions are unclear or open to interpretation, it can lead witnesses to second-guess their choices or feel uncertain about their decision, which may result in unreliable identification outcomes.

In a photo array, witnesses must be guided in a way that allows them to focus solely on the photographs presented without any confusion regarding the identification process. Providing well-defined instructions helps ensure that the witness understands how to make a selection, what to look for, and emphasizes that the suspect may or may not be present in the array.

The consideration of having witnesses immediately choose a suspect or the number of photographs used in the array are related but distinct concerns that also impact the effectiveness of the identification process. Allowing witnesses to discuss their choices during the process can further compromise the integrity of the identification, as it may influence their decision-making. However, the primary importance lies in the clarity of the instructions provided to maintain the reliability of the witness's identification.