The Importance Of Images In Visual Communication

Images are highly effective in conveying not only messages, but also portraying feelings. Through observation of images, we understand their visual communication to the viewers. Looking at the previously attached image, taken by an unknown photographer in 1872, we initially see a dentist providing treatment, as his assistant pulls back the patient’s head using a piece of cloth. The reality is, there is more to images than just surface reflection such as this. A more profound remark is that ignorance is bliss – or so we like to think. Ignorance will often times give rise to a feeling of fear. Whether one is being ignorant towards a situation in the world or ignorant to a simple task, a simple action, or the simple truth, one matter we certainly

As expected, the field has evolved and improved with time, yet ‘dental-phobia’ remains a big part of the original dental experience.

In this stock photograph, we see everything a person with a so-called ‘dental-phobia’ case is afraid to experience. We further learn, from the image, what the “fear” is. Though projected in black and white, one can sense the tense feelings that rule in the room as the dentist and his assistant take overpowering positions, dominating the patient - leaving him feeling helpless.

Old man — the dentist — rests his leg up on the wooden chair, where the patient has assembled himself prepared but fearful of treatment. As the dentist uses one hand to forcibly push back his head, he utilizes only the right hand for treatment. Needless to say, that no other tools are being used, such as a mirror or an explorer; hence the use of only one hand – one tool – pliers. His carelessness goes to further show, as one takes a closer look at his facial expression — with is eyebrows looking like a single bushy bar above his eyebrows, his heavy lidded eyes are causing a vertical wrinkle on his forehead. The dentist’s body language proves his ignorance causing