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For Sandra Ristovska, assistant professor of media studies, the adage “seeing is believing” is problematic when it comes to how, under what circumstances, and to what ends images are used in the pursuit of justice. 

Focusing on its significance in legal proceedings, Ristovska examines the influential power and inherent limitations of video evidence in criminal, immigration and Indigenous cases. Her research has revealed that video footage lacks objective truth, leading to varied interpretations influenced by cognitive bias, cultural backgrounds and ideologies. Even camera type, perspective and playback speed can alter jurors’ perceptions. 

Currently, U.S. courts lack clear guidelines for the use of video as evidence, posing a risk to the justice system’s commitment to equality and fairness. Ristovska’s research suggests the need for mechanisms to ensure consistency and fairness in the presentation and evaluation of video as evidence.