Photos, photos, photos: The power of visual communication
By harnessing the power of images, church communities can foster deeper connections with their followers online.
MEDIA BYTES
By Rev. Marty Levesque
According to Albert Mehrabian, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles only 7% of a message is conveyed through words, whether in person or on social. The remaining 93% comes from nonverbal cues, with a massive 55% attributed to body language, including facial expressions.
A simple image of a clergy member with a genuine warm smile can instantly create a sense of approachability and connection.
This image, without a single word, conveys warmth, welcome, and spiritual guidance. It might even spark a feeling of welcome and community.
Likewise, a photo of a diverse congregation celebrating holy days with joy or reverence, depending on the day, speaks volumes. Vibrant colours, shared expressions of joy, and the overall atmosphere of unity creates a powerful message of community, perfect for Easter Sunday.
Meanwhile, during other seasons like Lent and Holy Week, images ought to take a more reflective tone or risk communicating unintended messages.
The tone of a message can also be conveyed visually, 38% of communication according to Mehrabian. A peaceful image of a church bathed in warm sunlight evokes feelings of serenity and contemplation. This can be particularly effective for promoting prayer services or quiet reflection during Holy Week.
By harnessing the power of images, church communities can foster deeper connections with their followers online. A well-chosen photo can not only inform about upcoming holy days or parish events, but it can also evoke emotions, inspire reflection, and strengthen the bonds of faith.
Rev. Marty Levesque is the rector of All Saints’ in Waterloo. He served as diocesan social media officer.