Key evidence & numbers
| Evidence | Context |
|---|---|
| Imagery is not proof of perfect recall | the research overview distinguishes eidetic imagery from photographic memory. Overview, question on photographic memory |
| Definitions matter | an earlier research review examined reports of persisting images after the stimulus was removed, which is narrower than an unlimited memory for everything seen. Review |
| No prevalence figure | these sources do not supply a robust population estimate for a consistently defined photographic-memory ability. |
What affects it?
The material, prior knowledge and memory strategies affect recall. A result can demonstrate skill at a particular task without establishing a general ability to reproduce arbitrary images perfectly. Research overview
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Common questions
What does eidetic imagery mean?
It refers to reports of a persisting image after looking away. The claim and its measurement need to be distinguished from perfect memory.
Can an online game confirm photographic memory?
We have no validation that would allow that conclusion from this game.
Does this mean people cannot have exceptional memory?
People can have striking memory skills. The evidence does not require describing those skills as a perfect mental photograph.
Sources
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