CHOICES - Visual

Included are some categories of visual techniques that could be used in a visual text. During an analysis, one should consider these categories and be specific with which Choice is being used.

Color

The use of different hues to evoke specific emotional responses or associations in the viewer. Example: Using blue to create a sense of calmness in a nature scene.

Composition

The arrangement and organization of visual elements within an image or design. This includes the balance and placement of objects to guide the viewer's gaze. Example: Placing a large object in the foreground and smaller objects in the background to create depth.

Rule of Thirds

A technique where the image is divided into a 3x3 grid, and important elements are placed along the lines or at their intersections to create a more balanced and interesting composition. Example: Positioning a horizon line along the upper third of a landscape photograph.

Focal Point

The area of an image that draws the viewer's attention first. This can be created through various techniques such as lighting, contrast, or positioning. Example: Using a bright light to illuminate a specific object in a dark room.

Visual Path

The route that a viewer's eye naturally follows when looking at an image or design. Common patterns include Z-shaped and F-shaped paths. Example: Arranging text and images in an F-pattern on a webpage to guide the reader's eye.

Typography

The style, arrangement, and appearance of text in a visual medium. This includes font choice, size, color, and placement to convey meaning and enhance readability. Example: Using a bold, sans-serif font for headings to create a modern look in a magazine layout.

Repetition

The recurrence of visual elements or themes to emphasize a message, create rhythm, or make the content more memorable. Example: Repeating a logo or symbol throughout a brochure to reinforce brand identity.

Body Language

The posture, gestures, and positioning of subjects in an image to convey emotions, relationships, or attitudes. Example: Depicting a person with crossed arms to suggest defensiveness or discomfort.

Gaze

The direction in which subjects in an image are looking, which can influence the viewer's emotional response or direct their attention. Example: A portrait where the subject looks directly at the camera to create a sense of connection with the viewer.

Point of View

The perspective from which the image is presented, which can affect how the viewer relates to or interprets the content. Example: Using a low-angle shot to make a subject appear more powerful or imposing.

Association

The use of visuals that connect to specific ideas, values, or concepts, creating a link between these associations and the main subject. Example: Including images of nature in a company's brochure to associate the brand with environmental consciousness.

Symbolism

The use of objects, colors, or imagery that represent abstract ideas or concepts beyond their literal meaning. Example: Using a dove to symbolize peace in a political cartoon.

Anthropomorphism

The attribution of human characteristics or behaviors to non-human objects, animals, or concepts to make them more relatable or engaging. Example: Drawing a smiling sun with arms and legs in a children's book illustration.

Emotional Appeals

The use of visual elements designed to evoke specific emotions in the viewer, such as nostalgia, inspiration, or compassion. Example: Using sepia-toned photographs to evoke a sense of nostalgia in a historical documentary. Can be used to contribute to another overarching element.

Storytelling

The use of visual elements to convey a narrative or sequence of events, often to engage the viewer and create a deeper connection with the content. Example: A series of images showing the growth of a plant from seed to flower to illustrate the passage of time.

Light

The use of illumination to create mood, highlight specific areas, or direct attention within an image. Example: Using dramatic shadows in a film noir-style photograph to create tension.