Gaze & Identity

The Gaze is a theory that describes the way the audience interprets and views a certain image. The gaze can have different effects on the viewer, depending on the category it falls into. This can either empower the viewer or challenge them. The four most common types of the gaze, in which an image can be visualised are the spectators gaze, the extra-diagenic gaze, the intra-diagetic gaze and the look of the camera.

The spectators gaze empowers the viewer by allowing them to freely look upon the subject, as the subjects eye are diverted away from looking out of the image and into the viewers eyes. Here is an example of an Calvin Klein advert which portrays the spectators gaze.








In contrast to the spectators gave which empowers the viewer, the extra-diagetic gaze challenges them. This is because now the subject is directly addresses the viewer by the subject looking straight at the spectator.








The intra-diagetic gaze is the theory behind a subject gazing at another subject in the image. This empowers the viewer as the subjects are allowing you to gaze upon their relationship.

The look of the camera depicts the gaze of the photographer/film maker directed at the subject, inside the image. Here is an example of work by photographer Richardson, in which this image was used to promote the brand Sisley. Richardson is well known for appearing in his own photos, with and without his camera.