Informative Images in Media: Types and Valuation
Informative Images: Types and Valuation
Rating Scales According to Technique
A) Actual moving images of events: These hold the highest valuation as they best capture actions and reflect the event accurately.
B) Photographic stills: These capture only a moment and therefore do not possess the same informational value as moving images, although they still hold informational value.
C) Infographic still or moving images: These are computer-generated images that transform other images. They can appear more realistic but do not represent a real collection of facts. They are still valuable and serve a purpose.
Rating Scales Based on Involvement with the Facts
A) Specific self-images or broadcast live events: These are the most attractive and create cohesion between the visual and oral elements.
B) Images of the events themselves, delayed broadcasts: The event is captured *in vivo*, and its dissemination occurs later. The crucial aspect is the real and direct link to the event. Sometimes, very brief images are repeated multiple times during assembly, causing distraction.
C) Images prior to or after what is narrated: The closer the recording is to the event, the more valuable it is.
D) Images of similar situations but not specific to the facts: The date of the recording must be indicated to avoid confusion.
E) Symbolic images or general context: These have a high metaphorical level, representing the different facts narrated orally but to which they relate. They are used when no image is available for the event. Careful selection is necessary to prevent neglect of oral expression.
F) Picture of the facts: These lack dynamic value and are used in the press when no other images are available. They have informational value but less than moving images.
G) Image file: These are images from an earlier time. Their valuation depends on the specific connection with the facts being reported.
H) Computer graphics, maps, graphs, and statistical representations: These clarify issues concerning the scene and can be used alone or with other images.
I) Illustrated but poorly related images with the facts as reported: These serve to eliminate the presence of the “talking head,” which can cause viewer neglect. It is preferable to remove them.
Rating Scales Based on Type of Personalities
A) Images of actors: The closer they are to the facts, the higher their information quality. They offer the human value of information, expressive features, and language skills. They attract viewer attention and should be presented as naturally as possible.
B) Images of witnesses: These hold a lower value than those of the protagonists but still provide important information.
C) Images of specialists and experts: These are valuable due to the authority and knowledge of the individuals. They are considered part of the information, acting as interpreters and commentators.
D) Testimonial images from the presence of a reporter at the scene: The reporter conveys their vision, not that of experts. There is a risk of including personal interpretation. Sometimes, the reporter’s presence adds more validity to the statements.
E) Images of correspondents: They provide a personal touch due to their location at the information point and are on the same level as the previous category.
F) Photographic portraits of personalities: These are archival photographic images or agency photos, valid as substitutes if other images are unavailable. Errors can occur if files are not updated.
G) Drawings, portraits, and caricatures of people: The better they describe the facts, the more valid they are. They utilize expressive visual resources to convey information effectively.
H) Talking head: In the absence of images, the presence of the reporter is preferable. It is the best way to avoid distraction and confusion. Avoid distracting clothing, hairstyles, or objects.