Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima

Taken by Joe Rosenthal on February 23, 1945

-black and white photo
-flag whipping in the wind
-complex, organic shapes
-implied shapes (clouds)
-brush and bramble in foreground
-ocean in background
-strong impact of the flag contrasting against the pale sky

Describe

Principles/Analyze

-visual interest is focused on the struggling soldiers in the center and then pulled up to the flag
-highly contrasting dark and light areas add raw, simple emotion, blocking out the distractions color often brings
-diagonal direction of the flag unifies the picture, connecting the two sides of the photo
-through bending down, man on the far right entices the eye to not stay in the center, but move around the photo and examine other elements
-dark bramble at the bottom keeps the piece grounded

This famous photo, taken during World War II, exudes a deep sense of horror and outrage as viewers witness the struggle to raise our nation's flag. However, in doing so, it also successfully represents glory and the powerful message of never surrendering, no matter what ordeals are brought against you. The diagonals of the flag and the soldiers' bodies convey their determination and pride in raising our flag. The black and white colors strip away all disorder to relay the simple promises all Americans take: "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America..."

Interpret