Picture This Visual Codes

Picture this | Visual codes

Symbolic codes information

Symbols are things that stand for or represent something, someone, a place or
an idea.When we combine symbols in images we can create meanings and represent ideas.

The codes you will need to know are presented below.

Objects

Objects can be used to create a sense of character or place. By simply placing an object next to someone or something you can create new meanings.

Placing sunglasses on a beach towel could signify summer holidays, lazy days, relaxation or happy memories.

Body language

The use of posture, gesture and facial expressions can signify ideas and feelings.

Costume/clothing

Costumes and clothing can symbolise character and setting (time and place). The use of costume and clothing can be a shortcut to enable the viewer to quickly recognise the type of character and/or the time in history and/or the setting.

People

People can be used tosignify or represent ideas. Sporting stars can signify fitness, health and success and so are often used to advertise products. These people attach meaning to the product. A model or actor dressed as a doctor in a painkiller advertisement signifies reliability and trustworthiness.

Setting

The place, or setting, represented in an image can signify different things depending on interpretation. An image of a person on a deserted beach could signify isolation but it could also be read as peacefulness and tranquillity.

A city setting may represent the excitement of the hustle and bustle of city life but it could also signify confusion or chaos.

Colour

Colours are important symbols and can represent ideas, feelings, concepts, mood, atmosphere and attitudes. An everyday use of colour to convey meaning quickly is a set of traffic lights.

Green can convey a sense of freshness and nature and is often used in advertising products which are promoted as natural. Some other examples are black,which is often used to symbolise evil;white as a symbol for purity;and red for love, or danger, depending on the culture in which it is used.

Juxtaposition

Juxta = next to; position = placement

Juxtaposition refers to the placement of objects or people next to each other to create a specific effect. To convey the idea of horse riding without actually showing a person riding a horse, we could juxtapose a few objects such as a riding hat, boots and a crop.

Lighting

Lighting can be used symbolically to represent atmosphere and mood in images. For example, the use of dark and subdued lighting can create a sense of mystery, while the use of bright light may represent happiness and that all is well. In science fiction films, blue light often signifies the presence of aliens or some other unknown force.