The narrative level

The ‘narrative’ eye describes the world in the style of travel and documentary photography. The images give us an insight into worlds perhaps unknown to us, show special events and sometimes also want to influence our opinion and attitude. Strong images can change our state of mind, as well as the politics of a nation (for example images of the wars in Vietnam and Iraq).

Whilst photographs on a form level can still be completely neutral, those on a narrative level always somehow take a view on the event and occurrence that they are showing. These photographs are based on easily recognisable connections that are generally understood. Clear forms and a targeted picture composition enhance the power and effect of these images. We can usually still grasp and explain these photographs rationally. Owing to their greater or lesser, conscious or subconscious influencing of the viewer, the narrative level corresponds to the appeal aspect of the communication square.