Visual Concepts, and how they affect an image

    This photograph is taken from a New York Times article on the Internet that discusses the plight and poor working conditions of many Chinese migrant workers. The following visual concepts all have an effect on the image and the messages it gives out.
 

1. Contrast
    In most cases, color contrast is used to attract attention and convey boldness. However, this photograph uses color contrast to highlight the miserable condition of the Chinese town in the image. Although the fresh-faced girl is dressed in bright clothing, her outside environment is dark, dismal and dominated by shades of gray. The focus of light is also on the girl, and this further portrays contrast. These factors place emphasis on how dark and depressing the setting of this photograph is. 

2. Portrayal of People – Positioning
    How someone is positioned in a picture can give out a certain message. In this photograph, the person is not placed in the center of the image, but rather in the far right side. This portrays how she is not dominating force of the image. Instead, the gloomy town dominates the photograph. This gives the image a darker atmosphere and shifts its focus to the setting.

3. Point of View
    Although she is not placed in the center, the photographer chose to use a close-up shot of the girl in the image, and this is most likely done to better capture the facial expression of the girl. Her somber stare into the distance helps convey the message of hopelessness and uncertainty in her future, and thus strengthens the photograph’s message. 

4. Depth perception    

    The train leading into the distance implies the ideas of a long journey. This further supports the theme of the workers’ plight by illustrating how far they have to travel to go home and see their families. The depth perception of this photograph illustrates one of the main themes of the article.