Portfolio Task 7- Constructing the Other

Compile an annotated photo essay that analyses the visual and linguistic construction of a specific other within a magazine, journal, periodical or newspaper of your choice. You could focus on gender, race, class, sexuality, fashion, etc but make sure that you comment on how the construction of such an 'other' secures and stabilises the identity, and sense of self, of the publication's core audience.







The Sun 16 February 2010

This is an article from The Sun detailing the 'John Terry saga' after his personal life was exposed in the build up to the World Cup. Viewers of the article are immediately drawn to the headlined "JT'S GOT WAHEY WITH IT". The term 'wahey' is common British slang referring to playful, sexual natures. Partnered with the photo of John and his wife embraced on a sunny holiday, it conveys a sense of relaxation and sex between a couple. However, with John Terry's back turned to the viewer and the "WIFE KISSES CHEAT TERRY" headline above the photo, it's as if the article is trying to engineer a sense of envy and disgust towards him. Having your back turned can be considered 'rude' in certain circumstances, and the choice of photo seems to highlight a lack of respect from John Terry.

Being on the front page, the information disregards the Footballing aspect. In this sense, people of both genders can apply themselves seeing as Football is particularly male orientated. The Sun has constructed a soap operah-esque situation out of the personal lives of sportsmen, typical of British media. Footballers are often associated with large sums of money, and even the advertisments replicate this association. The 'Euro Holiday' segment corresponds to the holidaying of John and his wife, whilst the 'Brit Lottery win' demonstrates his possible bank balance.