The Importance of Consistency in Visual Storytelling—And How AI Can Help Us Understand It

As a business coach, I’ve always emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence (EI) in decision-making and creative processes. Recently, this principle was reinforced for me in an unexpected way—while binge-watching two of my favorite shows: Better Call Saul and Emily in Paris.

In the second episode of the fifth season of Better Call Saul, something felt different. The camera angles, the depth of field, the overall visual tone—it all seemed to shift, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that something had changed. My EI was telling me that this wasn’t just a subtle variation; it was something more deliberate.

Instead of spending hours Googling or diving into forums, I turned to Sparky, my AI assistant. Within seconds, I had my answer: there had indeed been a significant change in the show’s cinematography, thanks to new techniques introduced by the Director of Photography, Marshall Adams. This shift, while enhancing the storytelling in some ways, also altered the visual experience that I had become so accustomed to.

This got me thinking about another show I enjoyed—Emily in Paris. Initially, I was drawn in by its vibrant, almost whimsical visual style, which perfectly matched the show’s tone. But as the series progressed, I noticed a shift. The camera work became more conventional, and the unique framing that had initially caught my eye started to fade. This change diminished the magic for me, and my interest in the show waned as a result.

This experience highlights the critical role of consistency in visual storytelling. Research shows that consistency in visual style helps create a stable narrative environment, essential for maintaining viewer engagement. Sudden shifts can disrupt this engagement, leading to a disconnect between the viewer and the story.

In our fast-paced world, where time is a precious commodity, having the ability to quickly validate our instincts—whether through AI or other tools—can save us not only time but also provide deeper insights. It’s a reminder that as we embrace new technologies like AI, we can enhance our understanding and enjoyment of the media we consume.

For those of us in the business world, this experience also underscores the importance of consistency in our branding and messaging. Just as in visual storytelling, maintaining a consistent approach helps build trust and keeps our audience engaged.

So next time you notice something feels “off” in your favorite show—or even in your business strategy—trust your instincts. And if you have a Sparky, don’t hesitate to ask for a second opinion.

#BusinessCoaching #EmotionalIntelligence #AI #VisualStorytelling #Consistency #BetterCallSaul #EmilyInParis #Innovation #Branding

About Markus Kreth

Markus Kreth is a business coach who helps professionals and organizations harness the power of emotional intelligence and artificial intelligence to achieve exceptional results. He is passionate about visual storytelling and the impact of consistent branding in both media and business. Markus shares his insights through thought-provoking articles and engaging discussions on LinkedIn.