Photos or Illustrations: What Works Best for Easy Read Audiences?

When it comes to Easy Read materials, what kind of images make the biggest difference?

According to Shaun Webster MBE, a member of our Experts by Experience panel at IC Works, the answer is clear:

“I really like photos best because they show real things and real people. They are much easier for people with a learning disability like me to understand than a drawing.”

Yet, time and again, we see Easy Read documents that fall short of what truly works. Often, these materials—created by other providers before clients turn to us—share the same common issues:

Where Some Easy Read Documents Go Wrong

·         Overuse of Illustrations – many rely heavily (or even exclusively) on drawings instead of photos

·         Childish, Picture-Book-Style Art – some use cartoon-like images that feel patronizing to the intended audience

·         Sparse Image Support for Text – bullet points are often presented without their own accompanying images, making them harder to understand

Why Photos Are Often the Better Choice

While there are times when an illustration or diagram is necessary—such as when explaining abstract ideas—our panel of experts consistently tells us that:

·         Photos make information easier to understand because they connect directly to real-life experiences

·         Being treated like adults matters – Childish imagery can feel insulting and disrespectful to those who rely on Easy Read materials

·         Every key point deserves an image – Even short bullet points should be supported by a relevant visual to aid comprehension

Putting the Audience First

At IC Works, we don’t just follow Easy Read guidelines—we co-produce our materials with the people who actually use them. That’s why we prioritize clarity, respect, and accessibility in every document we create.

Because Easy Read isn’t just about simplifying text—it’s about making information truly work for the people who need it most.