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Ad Analysis

In ancient times, the most efficient method of advertisement was done through word of mouth. During the 15th and 16th century, the development of printing brought forth the first advances toward modern advertisement. By the 17th century, London had weekly newspapers that carried advertisements in their print. It only took until the 18th century before such advertising was in circulation. (Foster) We now live in an age that is dominated by propaganda that seeks to persuade the purchase of its particular product(s). What makes a convincing ad? Even though there doesn't look like much to an ad, everything is there for a specific reason. Advertising has developed into a fine-tuned art that uses specific colors, text, placements, pictures, and subliminal messages to hook their targeted consumer. Ads that have a similar product must find a more convincing method than their competitors in order to sway individuals for their business. For example, two compact car ads from Nissan and Plymouth. The two ads are presenting a product in the same category, but they take different approaches in an attempt to target different types of consumers and make more sales. By dissecting the two ads, they can be closely analyzed, compared, contrasted, and evaluated on which one is more strategically put together. The background of the ad, color of the vehicle, text, and the tone set are all key points of evaluation.
The background of Nissan's ad appears to be black, but it is actually the inside of a crash-test center with the lights off. The top portion of the ad is blank except for the vague outline of warehouse rafters and pipes running all throughout the ceiling. A good portion of the bottom of the page is consumed with the dark floor. The view gives the impression that the camera was almost set on the floor to take the picture and looking slightly upwards. Nissan's photographic preference for this ad enhances the middle of the picture due to the darkness of the top...