English
Visual Literacy
Visual literacy appeals to me because it is a form of communication that is based on imagery, not words. “Visual communication is a process of sending and receiving messages using images” (Bamford). There are many differ forms of visual communication. “Visual literacy can be defined as the ability to construct meaning from visual images” (Bamford). The basic foundation of visual literacy is the interpretation of past and present images and the ability to produce images that effectively communicate the intended message to the audience (See Bamford). The ability to use visual images to convey messages is very important in the world of advertising. Advertising often uses images to communicate messages concerning the usefulness or enjoyment of a product. In fact, the ability to show the significance of a product is often more valuable to the manufacturer than the ability to tell the audience about the usefulness of the product. Visual imagery may have the ability to captivate an audience in a way that mere words do not.
The understanding of visual literacy can help in personal pursuits as well as academic and work environments in a number of different ways. As visual communication includes things such as gestures, objects, signs, and symbols, visual literacy skill can help you ‘read’ other people better (See Bamford). Furthermore, in an academic environment, visual literacy skill can help with understanding some material and may be a great study tool for those who would like to use more than simple words. Visual literacy is also important in many careers such as advertising, marketing, and virtually all businesses dealing with consumers. Therefore, visual literacy skills are great skills to add to one’s repertoire.
Works Cited
Bamford, A. “The Visual Literacy White Paper.” Adobe Systems Pty Ltd, Australia. Web. 31
