Doing Visual Analysis
From Theory to Practice
- Per Ledin - Södertörn University, Sweden
- David Machin - Örebro University, Sweden
Visual communication shapes our perceptions and experiences of the world. This is not only a question of photographs or video, but also the design of websites, the use of data visualization software, the branding of packaging, and even the design of buildings and furniture.
Doing Visual Analysis: From Theory to Practice provides a concrete set of tools to research and analyse this wide range of visual data. Showing students how to apply the right mix of methods to their own research projects, it equips them with the skills to break down and analyse the range of contemporary visual communication. The book:
- Provides examples of how and where certain tools can be used in a project or dissertation
- Discusses the type of research questions best suited to different tools and methods
- Shows students how to mix approaches and use tools alongside other methods, such as content analysis or interviews
Doing Visual Analysis is an essential companion for students and researchers of visual data across the social sciences.
A cogent and accessible book that explains how meanings are made through visual and material resources. A must-read for those interested in conducting visual analysis.
Doing Visual Analysis places visual communication at the heart of the political and social organisation of the everyday. It provides an excellent introductory 'tool kit' for researching how visual materials shape what we do, how we think, and how we experience the world.
"Recognizing that research questions are generated within a context of everyday life experiences and specific media use, this book guides students to good research design as it trains them in analytical skills. This innovative social semiotic approach is distinct among such texts and will benefit students and scholars alike."
Gives an solid insight to research fields concerning a semiological approach. I appreciate especially the chapters Packaging and Space design as they are normally not in focus in introductory literature and fill a certain gap. Doesn't convey a complete overview of image theory but illustrates nicely how one could conduct visual studies.
Easy to read style; logical progression of ideas; clear examples to demonstrate theory; very practical approach to deciphering the semiotics of advertising.
Well written and interesting. very suitable for under-graduate researchers.
This is an accessible and useful text for undergraduates and Masters students to use. The very good use of examples of analysis and application of theory make it one of the few textbooks in this area that really takes the student reader through the various processes of sampling, application of theory and analysis in a lively and critical fashion. It does exactly what it promises, assists your students with applying theory to practice.
Sage College Publishing
