How many photos are typically included in a photo line-up?

In a photo line-up, the standard practice usually involves including six photographs. This is because having six photos strikes a balance between providing enough options for an eyewitness to make a selection while also minimizing the likelihood of misidentification. The goal of the photo line-up is to present a fair choice that limits bias and helps with accurate identification.

Including fewer than six photos may reduce the variability and increase the likelihood that the eyewitness will choose someone simply because they stand out, rather than for an accurate recognition. Conversely, including more photos can lead to confusion and can overwhelm the eyewitness, undermining the effectiveness of the identification process. Therefore, six photos is established as a commonly accepted standard in law enforcement procedures for line-ups.