MIGRAIN: reading an image

 Alezey

TYPES OF MEDIA CODES: reading an image

Technical codes

Technical codes include the following:

• Camerawork/photographic
• Lighting
• Sound
• Editing

Written or verbal codes

• Language/words
• Slogan or anchorage text (for advert)
• Cover lines / main flash / title (for magazine cover)
• Dialogue (if analysing a TV/film text)

Written codes are sometimes called lexical codes 

Symbolic or non-verbal codes

• Mise-en-scene (CLAMPS)
• Body language/facial expression
• Colour codes
• Typographic codes (e.g. font/typography)

Narrative codes

• Enigma codes: something that creates a question the audience want to see answered.
• Action codes: something that promises drama

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Reading an image - media codes blog tasks

TECHNICAL CODES:

The camera focuses closely on his face, which brings out his serious expression and connotes how he feels. The low-key lighting makes the poster feel intense, which supports the dramatic tone. There is no sound as it is a poster advertisement. The editing of the split screen collage implies past vs present which links to his previous bad experiences but the good side indicating moving on.

WRITTEN/VERBAL CODES:

The written quote, “Where I am from, there is no plan B…” works as an enigma code, although it works as a motivational message and tells us about 50 Cent’s tough/past environment and the need to seize the moment. The phrase “I am what I am” shows his self-identity and confidence. The Reebok logo is a clear example of branding, and links 50 Cent to a popular company and emphasises cultural identity within fame.

UNWRITTEN/NON-VERBAL CODES:

The black and white colour scheme denotes seriousness and connotes hardship. The fingerprints are important signifiers representing identity and possibly a criminal past, highlighting 50 Cent’s tough background. Together, the image and quote create a myth of 50 Cent as a determined survivor. Especially from the bullet holes in the quote, representing gunshots and the trauma he faced.  50 Cent’s direct eye contact with the camera creates a connection with the viewer and shows confidence. His serious facial expression and the camouflage cap give off a tough, “street” vibe that matches his public image. These visual signs tell us about his personality without words.

NARRATIVE CODES:

Enigma Code:
The quote “Where I am from, there is no plan B” raises questions about 50 Cent’s background and the challenges he faced, making the audience curious about his story.

Action Code:
His serious expression and direct gaze suggest determination to act, implying a narrative of survival and encouraging to make the most of today.

TECHNICAL CODES:
The photo uses high-key lighting and a blue colour schemes to create a serious and realistic mood. The plastic water bottle is in the water making it the signifier, which is sharply focused, and highlights the bottle as the main subject, emphasising pollution’s impact.

WRITTEN/VERBAL CODES:
The phrase “Your Waste is Fatal” is a strong directive message aimed at the audience, as if its holding them personally responsible. It creates an enigma code by making viewers think about how their actions affect the environment and the consequences of pollution.

UNWRITTEN/NON-VERBAL CODES:
The plastic bottle shaped like a bomb at the point of the water perspective is a signifier harming wildlife and the effects of human waste on the environment, and emphasises environmental protection. The stark contrast between nature and pollution creates a myth of human destruction threatening the planet.

NARRATIVE CODES:

Enigma Code: 

The image makes viewers question as to why it looks like a bomb. This mystery draws attention and encourages people to think about the hidden danger of ocean pollution — how something as harmless as a plastic bottle can be deadly to marine life.

Action Code:

The visual of the bottle in water that looks like a bomb implies an imminent disaster, suggesting that pollution acts like a weapon against marine life. It motivates the audience to take action like reduce plastic waste and protect the ocean.