Big bold images in a slide can make an effective backdrop for presentations. Not only are these graphics exciting and engaging, they can be seen and understood quickly so that the audience can keep their focus on the presenter and his or her comments.
This images are also general enough that the speaker can steer the discussion to whatever direction and depth seems appropriate for the occasion. But general images can also be wide open to interpretation — possibly leaving the audience a little distracted as they try to understand the direction of that particular section of the presentation. Adding a few well-chosen words to the image can help narrow the context and give the audience a frame in which to understand and assimilate the presenter’s words.
Listeners will appreciate the guidepost and will be able to keep their attention where it belongs: on you the speaker.
