The impact of images on our daily lives is not only due to their visual appeal, but also to how the human brain handles them. It has been discovered that images are processed up to 60,000 times faster than text, a figure that explains why they are so effective in communication.
This is because the brain is designed to prioritize visual information. Since ancient times, humans have depended on their ability to interpret visual signals quickly, whether to detect danger or recognize food.
When looking at an image, the visual data travels directly through the visual system to the cerebral cortex, where it is immediately interpreted. In contrast, text requires a more complex process: it must first be read, then deciphered, and finally understood. That is why, when faced with an image and text at the same time, attention is directed first to the image.
In marketing it is used to capture the attention of consumers with striking photographs.
This phenomenon is used in many areas. In marketing, for example, it is used to capture the attention of consumers with striking photographs or attractive graphics before they even read a headline. On social media, it is noted that posts with images receive more interaction than those that only contain text.
Furthermore, images also improve information retention. Up to 80% of what is seen is remembered, compared to only 20% of what is read. That is why, in presentations, publications or digital content, the use of images reinforces the message and makes it more memorable.
In conclusion, the human brain favours images because they are fast and effective. This fact not only explains why images dominate the digital world, but also how they can be used to convey messages in a clear and lasting way.
Pictured here is Francis "Frank" Evans (born 18 August 1943) a British bullfighter better known as "El Inglés". He is the only British bullfighter currently in existence. Photograph © jesusdominguez.com
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Hence the wise saying made it clear that a picture is worth a thousand words.