When it comes to analyzing texts, we often think of words on a page or screen. However, images can also be a powerful tool for conveying a message and supporting an argument. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how to annotate a picture, using a cartoon as an example.
First and foremost, it’s important to remember that an image is just another form of text. It has a purpose, a message, and a set of visual elements that support that message. In the case of the cartoon we’re analyzing, the message is that unhealthy eating habits are learned at home, and the visual elements serve to support this contention.
To begin annotating the picture, we need to look for the visual features that support the message. For example, the central figure in the picture is a child sitting in front of a TV, absorbed in the program. The child’s body language and facial expression suggest that he is glued to the screen. In the background, we see a refrigerator that is easily accessible from the TV area.
These visual elements support the contention that unhealthy eating habits are learned at home. The child is being taught to sit in front of the TV and consume unhealthy drinks, just like his father. The father’s body language and facial expression mirror the child’s, suggesting that he is setting a poor example.
Other visual elements that support the message include the child’s muffin top and the father’s overflowing clothes. These physical signs of unhealthy eating habits are clear indicators of the message the cartoon is conveying.
In addition to these elements, we also see a speech bubble that says “the rise of obesity and children is making people ask why.” This further supports the message that parents are not taking responsibility for their children’s health and are instead contributing to the problem.
Finally, we notice that the only source of light in the room is the TV. This suggests that the child spends a lot of time sitting in front of the screen, leading to an inactive lifestyle and further contributing to the problem of obesity.
By breaking down the visual elements of the picture and analyzing how they support the message, we can effectively annotate the image and use it to support our own arguments. Whether you’re analyzing a cartoon, photograph, or other type of image, the same principles apply. By treating visual features as persuasive techniques, we can gain a deeper understanding of the message being conveyed.