Overview
This lecture explains how to analyze visual texts, covering definitions, key analysis steps, and specific visual techniques.
What is a Visual Text?
- A visual text uses pictures as well as or instead of words to communicate meaning.
- Examples include photos, advertisements, movies, TV shows, cartoons, artworks, and magazine covers.
- Visual texts can combine images and written language, such as a poem over an image.
Steps to Analyzing Visual Texts
- First, identify the type of visual text (e.g., photo, film, artwork).
- Apply your knowledge of similar text types to understand the new text.
- Examine structural elements: title, images used, text layout, paragraphs, stanzas, rhyme, or rhythm.
- Consider the shapes and size of elements, since larger items usually stand out more.
- Note that creators can manipulate size, shape, and structure to emphasize or hide elements.
Key Visual Techniques
- Focus on what stands out in the image (e.g., bold or large font, main subject).
- Use of color: contrasting colors draw attention to specific elements.
- Surprising or shocking content captures the viewer’s interest.
- Visual techniques such as size and placement guide viewers’ attention.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Visual Text — A communication form using images, either alone or with words.
- Structure — The way elements like images, titles, text, and shapes are arranged.
- Contrast — The use of opposing colors, shapes, or sizes to highlight differences.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice analyzing a visual text using the checklist from the lecture.
- Review examples of different visual text types and note their structural features.