Here are three iconic images… the lone protester in Tiananmen Square… the burning towers on 9/11… a pencil-thin Mahatma Gandhi…
Each image evokes emotion. Each image communicates something without a single word of explanation.
When you use photography and imagery at your church, you have a phenomenal opportunity to make a connection with your audience. When used wisely, images can grip the listener (or reader) and make a statement that you can’t quite put into words. When used poorly, images can clutter and distract.
Don’t use imagery for the sake of using imagery. Use imagery because it can reach into someone and pull out something uniquely human. Use imagery because it helps people make connections.
Use imagery that doesn’t need words to communicate.
I often say to preachers that if they can’t communicate without imagery…they won’t be able to do it with imagery. It is enhancement to good communication, no a replacement for it.
Richard,
Definitely. I think that we get caught up in the tendency to “jazz things up” with some pictures or videos. In reality, we need to make sure our message is strong.
Thanks!