Meaning of Composition - Information Value

Information value is one of the few categories of presentation and representational status that unify in textual space.

Information value is divided into two - given and new, ideal and real. Given is presented as something the viewer already knows and as a familiar & agreed-upon point. It is more often than not commonsensical and self evident. Elements of a picture are usually placed on the left. New however, is presented as something which is not yet known or not yet agreed upon by the viewer. It can be 'problematic’ as well as ‘contestable’. Instead of the left, elements are placed on the right.

Example of Given and New

Ideal on the other hand is the idealized or generalized essence of the information, also known as the most salient part. The upper section of the sheet tend make some kind of emotive appeal, showing us ‘what might be’. It shows us the world ‘as it is’, and our perception of it. Moreover it is unmediated by communnication. Real however presents a more specific and ‘down-to-earth’ information. The lower section, in contrast to the upper section, tend to be more informative and practical, showing us ‘what is’. It is based on our interpretations of our perception (from ideal) and it is mediated by communication. It tells us that reality does exist, but our perception can only be subjective and selective. (McQuail and Windahl, 1993: 25)

Example of Ideal and Real

References:


Kress, G. & van Leeuwen, T. 2006. Reading images. Chapter 6: The meaning of composition.

Oakley, Todd 2005, ‘Implied narratives in medical practice,’ in Language & Literature, vol. 14, no. 3, p.295-310. (UNISA electronic library)

Schriver, K.A. 1997, Chapter 6 in Dynamics in document design