Reading an image - media codes by laith.

The image above is an advertisement from RBK featuring 50 cent, the first thing we can focus and analyse is the camerawork and positioning, This is a close up and the camera is specifically focused on 50 cent and his expression which is him being stern and serious which already gives off hints/clues as to what type of person he is. Moreover the camera is position just far away so that the scars on his shoulders are revealed, these scars could be a sign of what he has been through in the past which could demonstrate his determination and his resilience. The lighting is very dark and monochrome which is done on purpose as the point of the advertisement is not to focus on 50 cent but his message instead which is on the right hand side. The main slogan in this ad is the phrase "I am what I am"  which suggests that the main character 50 cent is a person who ignores other peoples opinions and focuses on himself and who he is and through the message on the right hand side he wants others to follow along with that mindset. Through further analysis the denotation in the message is that tomorrow may not happen so you should make the most out of today however the connotation would be that you should be strong and motivated at all times which is what the message wants the reader to do. In addition, the clothing that 50 cent is wearing is symbolic of who he is and where he came from as the clothing is often related with gangsters and people who live in harsh environments and it reveals that he is still who he is today even after all the fame providing the meaning that he is a person that doesn't back away from their past or morals. 

This is a Nike commercial which celebrates women's sports.

In this image we can focus on the idea that women are being empowered and this is done through the use of Serena Williams who is a professional cricket player. The camera directly focuses on a body shot and it focuses more on her hands and her movement to give an effect of action which can be seen through her attempting to strike a ball.  The lightning is dark but not monochrome as there is colour which can be seen through her bright white shirt which is symbolic of the colour of the Nike logo. Moreover, the infamous slogan "just do it" is placed on the bottom and it is quite small as Nike is already a big brand and they want to direct the focus onto the message above. The typography is quite casual however it provides an effect of seriousness as if Nike wants you to listen to the message seriously.