How to Read and Critique Images

Task 1: True or false? Tick the correct answer. Correct the false statements.

According to the video, it is acceptable to merely describe the

visual elements of an image without considering its context.

true false

Tim Larsen, The hug that never was (2012)

Contextual research includes gathering information about the image's situation in which it was created in.

true false

The critical interpretation focuses on summarizing the most important information and stating one’s opinion.

true false

Task 2: Complete the summary of the process of critical interpretation.

descriptive analysis contextual analysis critical interpretation

close __________of the image _________ the picture’s context interpretation of the image
Task 3: Conduct an analysis on this picture of Chancellor Scholz and President Selensky. Use
the questions as a guide.

Descriptive analysis
How many people are in the picture, the suggested relationship, and what do they look like (facial
expressions, gestures)?
What does the image suggest about their relationship?
How is the picture composed (foreground, background, colors, perspective)?

Contextual analysis
What is their political relationship? How are they connected?
Why was this picture taken and who is the target audience? Instagram, @bundeskanzler (posted on 16.02.2024)

Critical interpretation
Why does the image use these specific elements in this context?
Which context is this picture trying to create?