Explain how the following visuals could influence your reaction to a news story.

Video footage of refugee camp, in which thousands of people are living in tents and suffering from lack of food and medical care.

A photograph of a politician in handcuffs being led away by the police.

I know how I would react. But your teacher wants to know YOUR reactions.

The visuals can greatly impact your reaction to a news story by evoking emotions and providing tangible evidence. Let's break down the influence of each visual:

1. Video footage of a refugee camp:
- Emotionally engaging: Seeing thousands of people living in tents and suffering from scarcity of food and medical care can create empathy and compassion. It allows you to connect with the struggles and challenges faced by refugees firsthand.
- Humanizes the issue: Visuals emphasize the real people affected by the situation, making it more relatable and personal. It can help you better understand the gravity of the refugee crisis.
- Adds context: Video footage provides a comprehensive view of the camp, showing the living conditions, overcrowding, and the overall situation. This context gives a deeper understanding of the challenges faced and the urgency for action.

2. Photograph of a politician in handcuffs being arrested:
- Shock value: The visual impact of seeing a politician in such a compromising situation can create a strong reaction, often one of surprise or disbelief. This image challenges the perception of authority or power previously associated with the individual.
- Implies wrongdoing: The use of handcuffs and police presence suggests that the politician is involved in unlawful activities or is being held accountable for alleged misconduct. This visual strongly influences the perception of guilt or wrongdoing, potentially leading to negative sentiments towards the politician.
- Enhances trust in journalism: The photograph acts as evidence supporting the journalist's claims and establishes a higher level of credibility. It validates the reliability of the news story and offers transparency that can resonate with the audience.

In both cases, visuals provide a direct, impactful, and often emotional connection to the news story, enhancing your understanding and shaping your reaction. It is important to consider that visuals alone may not provide the complete context, so it's essential to analyze accompanying text or additional sources to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the news story.