Images, Power, and Politics by Sturken and Cartwright is an important piece of literature for web designers and content creators to understand. This article dives into the complex relationship between images, power, and politics in modern society. It examines how visual representation can be used as a tool of control or manipulation depending on who creates it. As web designers, we have the unique opportunity to craft powerful visuals that can shape public opinion or attitudes towards certain topics. We must consider this responsibility carefully when creating content for our clients or ourselves. As Sturken & Cartwright point out: “Visuals are not neutral; they carry with them specific meanings which are linked to their context” (Sturken & Cartwright).
Our designs should always strive to accurately represent the subject matter while avoiding any potential bias or manipulation through subtle design choices like font selection or color palette. Visual representations can play a major role in spreading awareness about these issues but they must be handled delicately so as not to perpetuate any negative stereotypes associated with them (Sturken & Cartwright). For us as web designers and content creators to do this effectively, we need to have an understanding of how visual representation affects people’s opinions on various topics – something that this article provides insight into through its examination of the historical roots behind image-making practices today (Sturken & Cartwright). For example, here are two images that will reflect different emotions once a person takes a look at them; however, it is according to each individual’s perspective and what the image commands. When you think of water you could think of serenity or disaster and even though both of these images include water, they spark a different emotion based on the person.
In particular, it emphasizes that web designers should consider how their choices around color scheme or subject matter might influence viewers’ perceptions and attitudes towards certain topics or organizations. For example, if a website is intended to promote progressive values then using bold colors such as reds and oranges could help convey those messages more effectively than traditional blues or greens which may evoke feelings of conservatism instead. Similarly choosing an appropriate background image could also be used in order to send out a strong political message – one which reflects both the company’s values as well as aligning itself with popular opinions on current issues. One thing this article makes clear is that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach when it comes to designing visuals; what works best will depend on individual contexts and goals.
