Psychology of Layers
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When talking about visual information, we must understand that images have a big influence on our perception. They do this by capturing our attention, provoking some kind of sentiment in us, and, more importantly, they communicate a hidden message without the need for words. In this blog, we would like to highlight a more complex technique: overlaying two images. What makes this approach so extraordinary is that it influences the perception of the viewer in a more subtle way.
The best way we can describe image overlays is as the technique of overlaying one or more images over a background image. To be clear, image overlays are not only about an image looking aesthetically pleasing, but it is actually about cognitive manipulation. Yup, you read that right. It is possible to add context, depth, and meaning to a simple image with the help of layers, turning it into a tapestry of emotions and information.
One of the most important aspects of image overlays is how they can create a hierarchy of visual elements. How come? Designers manipulate the contrast, opacity, and colour of images in order to guide the viewers' eyes and focus to where they want. This way, designers make sure that the most important information and elements are seen first, which makes this hierarchical structure pretty effective to prioritise certain information.
Many artists use image overlays to provide context. Let's take a historical photograph, like a picture of the aeroplane that the Wright brothers invented in 1903, and overlay modern visual elements of planes in the 21st century. This contrast serves as a narrative that puts the invention of aeroplanes together with their presence today. In other words, the overlay adds a backstory that would be otherwise absent.
Emotions are deeply rooted in perception, and image overlays can be used to evoke a specific response. Colour psychology can also play a big role here, since it can also be used to make viewers feel something in particular. Moreover, overlays can serve as some kind of intermediary for symbolism by using known icons and concepts that create an emotional trigger. Curiously, companies use this technique to create an emotional connection between themselves and their customers.
Image overlays are such an intriguing subject because they can either deepen the understanding of a person or completely confuse them. How? By making the viewer's brain work hard to decode the multiple layers and the connection between all of them. However, it is utterly important to mention that they are extremely well-planned for their complexity to be enriching rather than overwhelming.