Photographic propaganda

The use of photographs to influence public opinion in favour of a political ideal or government policies may be on a national or international level. Photographs may be used as posters, in newspapers and journals, and as stills from propaganda films. Some propaganda using photographs may be in advertising form. They may convey official, government or subversive information, which may be misleading or intentionally doctored to show a scene which did not exist in reality. Photographic propaganda may induce conformism, apathy, idealism or alienation and conflict. It may strengthen government control and existing injustices, inequalities and exploitation. Its particular significance lies in the fact that it can convey propaganda to people who are illiterate or who do not like to read.