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Abstract
Within the framework of visual agenda-setting, this study identifies the most memorable media images of Hurricane Katrina chosen by those closest to the event. Four hundred and sixty six Louisiana State University students responded to a qualitative survey 6 weeks after Katrina. Most participants chose the conventional, compelling, and repetitious imagery the media provided; thus visual agenda-setting was reflected in their choices. However, the closer the participants were to the news event, the more likely they were to abandon the dominant media image for one that struck closer to home: those affected chose personal images. Proximity appeared to mediate visuals and limit agenda-setting. This study also considered emotions evoked by the images as well as individual differences such as gender and ethnicity.
Note: All the images for this article are from a WWL television promotional video and used with permission, © 2005.