Decoding Photographs: Media Languages in Action

What is the symbolic meaning of the colonial outfit?

• Celebration of British heritage

• Critique of the idea of “discovery”

• Advertisement for a costume party

• Representation of tourism

What emotional impact does this image create?

• Fear and anger

• Joy and celebration

• Sadness and hardship

• Relaxation and peace

Which media language technique adds to this impact?

• Black and white tones

• Bright colour filters

• Overhead drone angle

• Motion blur

What is the photographer celebrating in this image?

• Sport and action

• A music concert

• Traditional Aboriginal culture

What media language technique is most important here?

• Fast shutter speed

• Bright studio lighting

• Use of natural light and smoke

• Wide angle distortion

What is striking about this image?

• The girl’s eye contact with the camera

• A background of warplanes

• The use of filters

• Her smile

What deeper message might the photo be sharing?

• Celebration of school life

• The strength and resilience of displaced people

• A model campaign

• Cooking traditions

What are symbolic codes in photography?

• Filters you add on Instagram

• The deeper meanings behind colours, clothing, or objects

• The part of the image that's out of focus

• The file size of an image

Why do we analyse photographs from different cultures and times?

• To study fashion trends

• To learn how photography was invented

• To understand different perspectives, stories, and histories

• To learn how to take selfies

What does the composition of a photo refer to?

• The colours used

• The way elements are arranged in the frame

• The camera brand

• The file type