The meaning of what is seen is subject to individual interpretation. Designers can influence a viewer's perception. In the example below, viewers may interpret the picture in different ways. A designer can direct the learner to perceive pictures as he intends them to be perceived by placing emphasis on particular aspects of the picture.
Emphasis is used in graphics to attract attention and to dramatize certain aspects.
Many techniques can be used to create emphasis in a graphic. These may include using light against dark, color against black and white, detail contrasted by lack of detail, variation of size, distortion, and movement. Below are examples of different ways in which a designer can emphasize that faces are what he intends the viewer to see.