What effect does framing have on the impact of an image?

Framing plays a critical role in how images are perceived and interpreted by an audience. By selectively choosing what to include or exclude within the frame of an image, a communicator can guide viewers' attention to specific elements, thereby influencing their understanding and emotional response.

For instance, a photograph of a protest can be framed to highlight the intensity of the crowd or to focus on a single individual, which can completely alter the narrative and the viewers' emotional reaction. This manipulation of focus can create different interpretations; an image framed to emphasize unity can inspire hope, while one that highlights conflict may evoke fear or concern. Through careful framing, the impact of the image is significantly shaped based on what narrative or emotion the communicator aims to convey. This significance of framing is essential in mass communication, where the context of the image can shape public perception and opinion.