What is required for photographs to be admissible in court?

For photographs to be admissible in court, it is essential that the photographer attests that the image is an accurate representation of the scene. This testimony helps to establish the authenticity and relevance of the photograph, ensuring that it accurately depicts what it purports to show. The ability of the photographer to verify the accuracy draws on their first-hand knowledge and involvement, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the evidence presented.

While aspects such as clarity and the professional status of the photographer can influence the weight of a photograph as evidence, they do not inherently determine its admissibility. Rather, the declaration from the photographer regarding the accuracy is crucial because it ties the evidence to the reality of the situation it portrays. This practice is fundamental in legal settings to ensure that images submitted as evidence can be trusted to represent the facts as they occurred.