Visuals have been a way for a person to express themselves since the beginning of time. Cavemen used to draw on the walls of the caves, and now there are digital drawings, paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art. Photography is another way people express themselves. The common phrase, “a picture says 1,000 words” exemplifies that one can analyze an image and find the purpose the artist had when creating it. The photo essay “Forced Friends” by Kristen Schandall, displays a growing family. It begins with three people two adults and a baby and ends with a group of seven people. The last image in the sequence contrasts the title as it displays a family who is close and happy, nothing is forced. This image of a group of people on the water depicts a sense of family and togetherness. The elements of this image such as the colors, background, camera view, and expressions ring true to the image of a happy family, and the display of the eternal bond that they have with each other.

Immediately after looking at the image the first thing that is seen is the seven people in the center of the frame. The bright color of orange is draws the attention of the viewer first. Two boys are in the bright color. From prior knowledge, many times the youngest of a family or twins share similar clothing and often own the same clothing. Also, the smaller of the boys is sitting on the lap of another.  Using this knowledge and the visual of these two boys it can be inferred they are in fact the youngest out of the family, as they look the smallest and have been forced in to matching each other. One can also notice the life jackets are only on three of the people and the two boys are both wearing the same colored one as well. The author did not need to include color in this part of the picture but it is used to show the importance of the people.

The background of the image seems to be the ocean or lake. There is water and ripples extending outward towards a concrete structure. This lack of a busy background brings more focus to the group of people that is present. The water is calm and stable, allowing the viewer to focus on the center image of the people. In the far corner of the picture there are rocks and vegetation. That could have potentially been a great view nonetheless their image cuts that out to allow the viewer to focus on the people in the photo. There is sunshine however, the sun is not shone in the image, just the rays of light. The sunshine also allows the view to make the assumption that it is a nice day. The background of this image also depicts the potential that this is a family vacation or outing.  

The camera view of this picture emphasizes the importance the author had on the people. The people are the center of the shot and takes up a most of the space in the frame. However, the author does not have a close up of the people. This is because in a close up only the faces would be important. This medium shot version of the picture catches simple details that help portray the image. At the bottom center of the image we notice many legs tangled and weaved together. While we can also tell, this is a small space, we notice that it is comfortable. The young boy is sitting on the woman’s lap; this supports the assumption that she is the mother.  Also, when looking at the angle the picture was taken it can be perceived that the two people in the back are the parents and the rest are the children. The picture could have been from the opposite angle could depict a different story. However, after looking closely at this small detail we can assume that this is in fact a picture of a family. They are extremely close as they are crammed up in the front of the boat, and there does not seem to be and uncomfortableness. This shows that it is a familiar feeling, and they have spent time together.

The facial expression of all the family members show bright smiling faces. The author made sure to include this to show how happy this family is to be together. This aspect of the image appeals to one’s emotions.  The view of this happy family is contagious and after seeing this it can make the viewer happy as well. Looking at the eyes of the family members, some of them are squinting. This is evidence of the prior assumption of the sun being out and the rays being viewed in the image. The sun insinuates brightness, which allows the view to put together that it is a beautiful day. The idea of a beautiful day can possible contribute to this loving families’ happiness. The author chose this angle for the camera to have these facial expressions for the viewer too see. When looking closely it can be seen that the smiles are all look very similar. The top lip on each person is very thin as they smile and parenthesis are formed on the sides of their cheeks. Their eyebrows have a similar arch to them.  This helps the viewer to undoubtedly see them as a family, and a happy one for that matter.

After closely analyzing this image it is clear to see that it is a family on a vacation and that this family is having a great time and are happy.  This is ironic considering the title of the piece is “Forced Friends”.  The entire essay revolves around the creation of this family and at the end the happiness they share. This can be assumed from all the visual evidence in the photograph.  The element of color gave us a glimpse in the aspect of the group being a family This also helped to see the family was the focus. The background also gave the impression of the family being the focus. While it also gave evidence of this being some type of vacation. The camera angle and shot gave us very important details. It gave evidence to confirm the family assumption as well as the roles in the family. Facial are expressions are another form in which people communicate and the expression are evidence of the happiness this family felt at the point the photograph was taken. With all the visual elements, the author photo can be proven to be an image of a happy family on a vacation.
