Pictures

The second part of our layout equation

Words + Pictures = Layout

Pictures, or images, are representative of or similar to a real subject. They can be realistic or abstract and have great potential for expression because they do not rely on language. Remember that pictures were used as a means of written communication until the advent of the alphabet. Pictures are essential to graphic communication.

A popular psychological theory describes brain function as being lateral, or divided into left and right hemispheres. The functions of the right side of the brain are said to be intuitive, holistic and contextual, while those of the left side are said to be analytical, literal and logical. With this as our model, the combination of words (literal) and pictures (intuitive) can combine to create a more powerful message than one or the other alone.

Consider, for a moment, the word

vote

Alone, it's not very compelling. We understand what the word means, but that's about it. No emotion, no compelling call to action. It's abstract. Now combine it with a powerful image and :

AIGA Poster Competition Entry

Symbols

What do you think when you look at these pictures?

These pictures are symbols which allow communication without relying on language or written words.

A symbol is something --- such as an object, picture, written word, a sound, a piece of music, or particular mark --- that represents (or stands for) something else by association, resemblance, or convention, especially a material object used to represent something invisible. Symbols indicate (or serve as a sign for) and represent ideas, concepts, or other abstractions.

–Wikipedia.org, Symbol

Verbal or written messages can often require more mental processing than a clearly crafted pictoral image. Symbols distill the essence of a concept or message into a neat little packet : man, woman, access, mail, money, no entry...