Photo Analysis

Whāinga ako: Lesson Goals

 To analyse and annotate a photograph by identifying key geographical features.

Annotate/annotation

Urban

Rural

Density

Transportation 

Recreation/recreational

What have photos got to do with Geography?

Geography is far more than just memorising maps and flags. It is the forensic analysis of our world. While a map tells you where a place is, Geographers use photos as visual data to investigate the "why" and "how" behind human life. This is where Urban Planning comes in. It is the practice of using geographical analysis to design cities that actually work for people. By looking at a photo, a Geographer does not just see a street. They see patterns of social inequality, environmental health, and economic flow. We use these snapshots to diagnose problems such as a lack of green space or a dangerous intersection and then use spatial data to build a more sustainable and functional future.

Annotating Photographs

Your Turn!

Below are three different photos of areas in New Zealand. They are used by humans but for quite different things and the impact humans have had on each spot is quite different. After analysing three photos, you will be asked to compare and contrast the photos. Make sure you use evidence from the photo to support your answers when needed! Be sure to use specific details. For example, don’t just say “a tree.” Be descriptive and say “a coconut palm tree.” (or whatever the tree may be).

Your job is to annotate and analyse them using the worksheet below.