Basic Visual Language

For many years, presentations have (sadly some still use it like that) been treated like some kind of word document – blown up, shortened into bullets to create a “see-all” document, read with enthusiasm (come-on!) by the presenter.

Now that some of us, know how important it is to create a visual impact, using any presentation software, we also need to understand the basics of the Visual Language. Ask any photography enthusiast – amateur or professional and they will give you a clear guide to this language.

So why is it necessary, to use this photo-language in presentations? Simple because, this is a universal visual language – used widely by all visual creators – artists, cartoonists, photographers, video-makers etc. And Presentation does fall into this category of  visual expression.

Now, here I am going to explain this Basic Visual Language. (If you want to know about Rule of thirds, I suggest you grab hold of Presentation Zen)

Long Shot (LS)

A shot that shows a scene from a distance. This is the least effective picture to communicate. You are far, outside the action.

Medium shot (MS)

A shot that frames subjects normally from the waist up. You are nearer. It is like the way you talk to people. It is used to introduce subject to your audience

Close up (CU)

A shot taken at close range, inches away or zooming into a subject’s face or object. It directs the audience to an important element.

Extreme Close up (ECU)

A very intimate shot

Medium Close up (MCU)

A shot that frames subject normally from chest up. It is close, but not too close.

Extreme Long shot (ELS)

A shot that gives the viewer “geography” – you see the whole area. You can see a lot of detail in the surroundings

Establishing shot (ES)

A shot that shows where you are. It establishes where the action takes place

Over the shoulder (OS)

A shot of a subject taken over the shoulder of another

Favoring shot (FS)

A shot that favors the subject who is talking

Point of View (POV)

A shot that shows what the subject is looking at

This is the language you need to use when you are dealing with images, drawing or even text. When you understand the power of this Basic Visual Language, then you will notice significant impacts in your presentations.

Go ahead, use this Visual Language and Make great presentations.