Photography

Introduction

Transforming Surgery—Changing Lives:
AO’s purpose is the basis for the new AO visual language concept.

The concept reflects the attributes human, authentic, and engaged along with the overarching brand design idea: the power of our global community.

This concept is reflected across all photography categories: The AO Foundation, people at the AO, scenes from events, studio photography, and teaching and practice scenarios.

Download additional guidelines:
– Photography guidelines

Download assets

Surgeons at work, teaching, practicing, course scenes, detail shots
AO members, socializing, networking, visitors, group pictures
Courses, congresses, symposia
Internal, external, online
Products, detail shots, instruments, research

Photography

Photography concept

Human.

Engaged.

Authentic.

Community 
The AO’s imagery reflects professionalism of AO people communicating information in a spirit of camaraderie.

Innovative and inspirative
We want to promote excellence in patient care and outcomes in trauma and musculoskeletal disorders.

Diverse 
We are proud and want to show our global network. We appreciate different views, new perspectives, and ideas.


Positive 
We want to show our passion and the joy of working in AO’s global network.

Respectful and appropriate 
We do not show anyone in bare or inhumane situations and ask ourselves whether each picture is ethically justifiable (ie, do not show dead bodies or excessive drinking).

Honest and realistic 
Our photos capture real situations and authentic human emotions. We depict people and situations as they truly are in everyday life. We don’t add people to the photos afterwards.

Photography

Visual expression

  • reduced color scheme (blue, white)
  • warm expression
  • balanced, well-composed
  • clean, tidy
  • neutral backgrounds
  • groups of people
  • interplay between clear and soft focus
  • simple and minimalistic
  • bright
  • strong contrasts
  • direct and bold
  • exposing and vivid
  • realistic

Natural 
Ideally, we use natural daylight or minimal artificial lighting for a natural, realistic, and positive look. Flash equipment is used only to simulate natural daylight.

Bright 
White space enhances the brightness and clarity of the images. If possible, try to find bright scenery.

Contrast 
Contrasts in light and colors emphasize the key details of a story. To keep images realistic, we make use of contrasts that are clear but not excessive.

Warm 
Use an aesthetically clean yet warm-toned color scheme.

Direct 
Check for good compositions: Soft foreground, focus on the area of interest, soft background. Find the right focus.

Simple 
Try to focus on the important object by creating a composition with calm backgrounds and few details.