Visual Language Syntax

In this picture we see an older man in full military formalwear standing and saluting while looking to his left. He is in the forefront of the picture but located in the bottom right corner. He is shot from the chest up and cast in shadow so you cannot clearly make out his face but his medals and the details of his uniform are still mostly recognizable. The shadows make the soldier unidentifiable and ambiguous, injecting a somewhat somber tone. Behind and above his is an american flag waving from a flag pole in in the background. The sun is shining from behind it making it appear somewhat translucent against the bright blue sky framing the picture. The flag appears to be waving in the wind.

Responses: Military, Patriotism, American, Proud, Somber, War, Freedom, Respect, Elders, Bravery, Remembrance, Formality, Ritual, Fallen Soldiers, Casualties, Memories, Battles, Inspiring, Nationalism, Duty, Honor, Dedication, Brotherhood

Symbols:
American Flag- Symbolizes the country as a whole, specifically the 50 stars are a symbol for each state and the 13 stripes representing the original colonies to declare independence from England. This symbolizes the unity of the country and the history of where it has come from to where it is now. The U.S. flag is also a symbol of patriotism and nationalism as well as pride.
Uniform- The uniform is a symbol for authority and respect, as well as bravery and obedience. People in positions in power most often wear uniforms denoting their elevated status. Those in uniforms are also bound by duty and they imply loyalty and honor.
Medals- Medals on uniforms are earned for bravery in the line of duty and represent; combat, valor, bravery, and honor.
Clear blue sky- Symbol for hope and a bright future, implies warmth and clarity.

Composition:
Although the focus or positive icon in this image are the soldier and the American flag, the soldier is located in the bottom right his image is given the positive, dominant position by being located in front of the flag. The flag, however is somewhat imposing because it is so large in the picture that it extends beyond the upper and right boundaries of the image. The soldier appears to be looking left, or backwards, as if to salute the past. if the image was mirrored he would appear to be looking into the future perhaps.