Can someone have a photographic memory like Mike Ross from Suits?

Have you ever wondered how a TV character like Mike Ross from Suits can recall every detail of law text to win a case? Or how does Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory remember his Mee-maw’s brisket recipe from when he was 18 months old? This ability is often referred to as a photographic memory, and it’s an intriguing concept. But is a photographic memory more than a concept? Or is it just a myth?

What is photographic memory?

Photographic memory is also known as eidetic memory. This refers to a person’s ability to recall visual information. This incredible precision comes from a person’s ability to take a snapshot of the scene in their mind. The term “photographic memory” suggests that the memory is so vivid and detailed that it’s like having a mental image of the event that you can later pull up whenever you need it.

Individuals believed to possess photographic memory are said to recall everything they have observed, including entire pages of text or intricate images. They can replay a memory exactly as it occurred, at any given moment.

The science behind memory

While it sounds like something out of a TV show, there’s some truth behind the idea of highly accurate memory.

Eidetic memory is the closest thing we have to photographic memory. It’s more typically seen in children. Studies have shown that some children between the ages of 6 and 12 can remember images and then later, recall the details of the image with incredible accuracy. However, this ability usually fades as they grow older.

It’s important to note that even children with eidetic memory don’t have a perfect recall of every image or moment—they’re just able to remember details better than most people.

Myth vs. reality

While Mike Ross and Sheldon Cooper have done a great job portraying photographic memory on television, you won’t be able to find these characters in the real world. Research into the phenomenon has not provided definitive proof of its existence.

Some scientists argue that what we consider photographic memory is more likely a combination of other cognitive abilities. This may include memory recall, pattern recognition, or a strong attention to detail. People with exceptional memory may be able to focus more intensely on the information they encounter, which allows them to remember more details. Eidetic memory is not fully understood, but it may be linked to synesthesia, a neurological condition where a person experiences one sense through another. For example, someone with synesthesia might see colors when they hear certain sounds.

Can anyone develop a photographic memory?

While some individuals may have extraordinary memory abilities, it’s unlikely that someone can suddenly develop photographic memory through training. The human brain is incredibly complex. We can improve our memory with mnemonics or memory palaces. But photographic memory is a rare trait.

Visual learners can use their natural ability to remember visual information more easily. Many people can significantly improve their memory by creating vivid mental images. For example, you can try to connect information with strong visual cues.

While there is no scientific evidence that you can train your memory to become photographic, there are lifestyle and dietary changes that can improve your working memory:

• Regular exercise can improve working memory, as well as provide multiple other health benefits.
• Mindfulness can help people improve their attention and working memory.
• Omega-3s and fatty acids play an important role in brain function.

Learn more about how to sharpen your memory.