I. Introduction
The world is filled with different mediums, each with their unique qualities and applications. For communication, artistic expression, and beyond, understanding the different types of mediums can help you select the right one for your purpose. In this article, we will explore seven examples of the most common types of mediums in the real world, artistic realm, communications, unconventional mediums, innovative forms, and strategies for selecting the most effective medium.
II. 7 Examples of the Most Common Types of Mediums Used Today
A medium is a means of conveying something from one place or entity to another. It can be a physical substance or digital platform through which messages, ideas, and expressions are communicated. Here are seven of the most common mediums used today:
1. Print Media
Print media is one of the traditional forms of communicating information to the general public. Magazines, newspapers, and brochures fall under print media. These mediums are typically printed on paper and can be used to share information over a large population. Magazines, for example, use images, graphics, and columns to provide information on various topics such as fashion, health, travel, lifestyle, among others.
2. Broadcast Media
Another medium for communication is broadcast media. It involves the transmission of audio and video signals across radio, television, and other electronic mediums. Broadcast media provides information to remote areas and allows simultaneous distribution of news updates to a large audience. Radio stations, for instance, employ the use of streaming services, making it possible to listen to their shows from anywhere in the world. Streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime employ broadcast media to deliver movies and TV shows to audiences globally.
3. Social Media
Since the advent of the internet, social media has become one of the most prominent mediums for communication. Social media enables users to communicate and share user-generated content across different platforms. Facebook and Twitter, for example, allow users to share posts and tweets containing texts, images, and videos. Instagram and TikTok, on the other hand, are primarily image and video-sharing platforms.
4. Outdoor Advertising
Outdoor advertising employs the use of billboards, posters, flyers, and banners to send a message or offer across to the intended audience. This medium is useful for spreading a message in a specific geographical location. Billboards, for example, can be seen by drivers and pedestrians alike, while posters and flyers can be placed in public places such as parks and cafes for people to see and read.
5. Graphic Design
Graphic design is a visual medium that involves creating art that communicates a message or concept. Graphic designers employ the use of graphics, images, typography, and color to create designs for a range of purposes, such as advertisements, packaging, and branding. The impact of graphic design is most apparent in the packaging of products such as food, beverages, and cosmetics. The design contributes significantly to the attraction and appeal of products on supermarket shelves.
6. Photography
Photography is a visual medium used to convey an event, emotion, or concept through the use of images. It involves capturing images using a camera and editing them to highlight specific aspects of the scenario. Photography is used in advertising, editorial, and social media to evoke emotions, attract attention, and relay a message.
7. Video
Video is becoming one of the most prominent mediums for communication due to its ability to convey a message more vividly than other mediums. This medium is suitable for storytelling, educational content, product demos, and marketing purposes. Videos are shared on different platforms such as social media, television, and websites, making it accessible to a wide audience.
III. Understanding Mediums: 7 Real-World Examples Explained
Now, let’s have an in-depth look at the seven different types of mediums, their usage, advantages, and disadvantages.
1. Print Media
The usage of print media has significantly reduced with the advent of digital marketing. It is often more expensive to produce and distribute material over print media, with examples being newspapers, magazines, journals, brochures, and newsletters. However, print media has a higher potential of targeting specific groups or demographics with personal distribution, making it a great choice where the reach of an electronic device is not accessible, such as in rural areas or places where connectivity is poor.
2. Broadcast Media
Radio and television are two of the most used forms of broadcast media. Radio shows reach a large audience, and they are significant in news, entertainment, and educational broadcasting. Though television has similar uses, it gives the advantage of a visual and an audio experience, making it the better choice for video content and advertising, among others.
3. Social Media
Social media is now one of the most powerful forms of media, with the largest number of users present on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Social media allows people to share content easily. It is extensive in reaching certain demographics of consumers because of its targeted advertising, personalized content, and relevant connections. However, social media also has some disadvantages that include the spread of fake news, cyberbullying, and the possible break down of social interactions from an over-reliance on social media.
4. Outdoor Advertising
Banners, posters, flyers, and billboards are also common forms of communication medium, serving the purpose of drawing attention and creating impressions to a largely passive, outdoor audience that might include drivers and pedestrians. Outdoor advertising, like other forms of media, has various advantages and disadvantages. For instance, there is a high probability of exposure, but the audience is less targeted than social media or other media.
5. Graphic Design
Graphic design is indispensable for various reasons. It enhances branding, makes digital and printed media appealing, and creates an identity for businesses that sets them apart from their competitors. Graphic design creates visual appeal and recognition, serving as a medium that is vital for advertising and other forms of promotion. However, it can also be expensive, and the quality might be compromised when the correct expertise is not used.
6. Photography
Like graphic design, photography is a medium that is visual. Used in various fields, including journalism, commercial and advertising, social media, and personal use. Photography captures emotions and moments that are otherwise hard to express in any other form. With the popularity of photography, there are also various camera types, and understanding what camera best conveys an intended message is essential.
7. Video
Video has become the go-to medium for most forms of communication. Videos provide the audience with information that is not possible through other mediums, and it evokes emotions quickly. Used for commercial advertising, educational materials, and entertainment purposes, videos present everything for which the audience prioritizes illustrations. Still, like other mediums, several elements must be taken into account to achieve an effective message through video.
IV. From Paint to Pixels: A Look at 7 Types of Artistic Mediums
Artistic mediums are an ideal way for artists to create one-of-a-kind pieces of art. Here are seven types of artistic mediums and how each is used:
1. Oil Paint
Oil paints are a traditional medium that makes artworks vibrant. Oils take a while to dry, making it more comfortable to work into the painting, or redo areas or fix mistakes. Creating depth and realistic textures is achievable by layering oil paint. Paintings made with oil paint are admired for their vibrancy and depth and are treasured by collectors of fine art.
2. Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is more versatile than oil paint because it dries fast and is easy to mix and clean up. Acrylic paint produces bold and flat finishes and can create a “puddling” effect ideal for abstract artwork. With the right combination of additives, acrylic paint can also create a textured surface like oil paint.
3. Watercolor Paint
Watercolor produces an endless variety of organic paintings with beautiful gradients that are influenced by the amount of water used. Artists love watercolors because it is easy to transport and clean, which also makes them an excellent choice for illustrators. Watercolor art is admired for the soft, transparent look it has, especially when used for landscapes or figures in architecture with its atmospheric applications.
4. Charcoal
Charcoal is an expressive and messy medium that offers marks with dramatically dark, romantic, and haunting effects. Artists use compressed charcoal for detail, vine charcoal for soft gradients, and powdered charcoal for smoother surfaces. The methods to blend and lighten charcoal are similar to that of paint, which can be used effectively to create a range of effects from portraits to drawings.
5. Colored Pencils
Colored pencils are an ideal medium for creating detailed art with lots of intricate patterns and colors. With the right techniques, colored pencils can be used to mimic oil paint or watercolors. Beyond that, they are an excellent tool for artists that like to work on small surfaces or for coloring and shading in illustrations. The relatively low cost of colored pencils also makes them an accessible introduction to artistic mediums.
6. Photography
Photography is also an artistic medium and is used to capture unique moments, landscapes, portraits, and wildlife, among others. Photography as an art form requires for the photographer to identify the right composition, lighting techniques, and camera settings that evoke a particular feeling.
7. Digital Art
Digital art is where the artist uses digital tools like a computer, tablet, or phone to create art. It is a medium that has evolved due to technological advancements. Various software and apps like Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Procreate allow artists to create graphics illustrious colorful designs that can easily be reproduced. Digital art also allows for easy modification or editing at any time, making it one of the most flexible artistic mediums.
V. Exploring the World of Communications: 7 Types of Media We Use Daily
Understanding the different types of communication mediums is essential to understand their impact on messages and how they are received by the audience. Here are seven forms of communication mediums:
1. Verbal Communication
This form of communication involves spoken words. Verbal communication is the most direct and personal form of communication as it is experienced with the senses. Verbal communication comprises varied elements such as body language, tone, timbre, pitch, among others.
2. Written Communication
Unlike verbal communication, written communication is indirect, and the receiver might not always know the intention behind the message. It is less personal but practical for documentation purposes, especially for corporations and organizations that need to communicate large amounts of information at a time. Written communication includes memos, letters or email, reports, and more.
3. Electronic Communication
Electronic communication is the use of electronic devices to pass on information, ideas, or expression. Electronic communication is more rapid than written communication and can make verbal communication more accessible across different time zones and regions. The internet, smartphones, and other digital devices are some examples of electronic communication media.
4. Audio Communication
Audio communication is a subset of electronic communication that involves transferring sound via radio, music, or podcasts. Audio communication offers businesses the chance to advertise effectively by creating commercials with sound effects and music that engender an impression or concept.
5. Telecommunication
Telecommunication is a type of communication that involves transmitting information like sound, data, and video via radio signals, satellite, or cable networks. With the availability of broadband networks that can transfer huge amounts of data, these telecommunication medium has evolved to the point of live video streaming, and quicker file sharing has become possible with peer-to-peer file sharing services like Dropbox.
6. Digital Publishing
Digital publishing is a media format that allows publishers to publish their content digitally over different internet channels, including websites and web portals, social media pages, and mobile applications. Publishers use digital media to enable mobile viewing and sharing, reach worldwide audiences, and lower distribution and publishing costs.
7. Interactive Communication
Interactive communication is a recent medium that involves the audience actively in the communication process to convey the intended message. Social media and other digital media channels are a part of interactive communication. Brands use interactive communication to connect directly to their audiences and create experiences with preferences and feedback.
VI. Beyond the Basics: 7 Unconventional Mediums for Creative Expression
The following is an introduction to the world of unconventional creative mediums and their usage, advantages, and disadvantages:
1. Glass Blowing
Glass blowing involves heating glass until it melts and is pliable which then it can be shaped or blown into unique art pieces.