How to Sign "Image"

To sign "image," start by holding your non-dominant hand flat in front of you, with the palm facing your dominant side and fingers pointing up. Form a 'C' shape with your dominant hand and place it near your eye or cheek. Then, move your dominant hand down to place the 'C' shape flat against the palm of your non-dominant hand.

Examples Using "Image" in a Sentence

1

That is a beautiful image.

To sign this, start by signing 'beautiful' with a sweeping motion across your face. Then, sign 'image' by bringing the 'C' handshape from near your eye down to your flat non-dominant palm, showing exactly what is beautiful.

2

Can you send me the image?

Begin by asking the person to 'send' it to you, directing the motion toward yourself. Then, clearly sign 'image' by placing your dominant 'C' hand against your non-dominant palm to specify what you are waiting to receive.

3

The image is blurry.

In ASL, you establish the subject first. Sign 'image' by moving your 'C' handshape from your face to your stationary non-dominant hand. Afterward, use the sign for 'blurry' by rubbing your hands together with open fingers in front of your face.

How to Sign "Image"
To sign "image," start by holding your non-dominant hand flat in front of you, with the palm facing your dominant side and fingers pointing up. Form a 'C' shape with your dominant hand and place it near your eye or cheek. Then, move your dominant hand down to place the 'C' shape flat against the palm of your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'image'—which is also commonly used for 'picture' or 'photograph'—is highly iconic and visual. The dominant hand starts near the eye, which represents the act of looking at something or capturing a visual memory. The 'C' shape itself mimics the edge of a picture frame or a camera lens. Moving it down to the flat non-dominant hand symbolizes taking that visual memory and physically placing it onto a surface, like printing a photograph.
Signing Tips
When signing 'image,' focus on keeping your non-dominant hand steady and flat, acting as the 'canvas' or 'frame' for the picture. Ensure the 'C' shape on your dominant hand is clear and touches the palm of your non-dominant hand firmly. The movement from the face to the hand is key—it represents taking something you see with your eyes and placing it onto a physical surface. Keep your facial expressions relaxed unless you are describing the image.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is using a flat hand or an 'O' shape instead of a clear 'C' shape for the dominant hand, which can confuse the meaning. Another frequent error is moving the non-dominant hand up to meet the dominant hand. Remember to keep your non-dominant hand completely stationary like a wall or canvas, while only your dominant hand moves down from your face to make contact.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Image" in a Sentence
1

That is a beautiful image.

To sign this, start by signing 'beautiful' with a sweeping motion across your face. Then, sign 'image' by bringing the 'C' handshape from near your eye down to your flat non-dominant palm, showing exactly what is beautiful.

2

Can you send me the image?

Begin by asking the person to 'send' it to you, directing the motion toward yourself. Then, clearly sign 'image' by placing your dominant 'C' hand against your non-dominant palm to specify what you are waiting to receive.

3

The image is blurry.

In ASL, you establish the subject first. Sign 'image' by moving your 'C' handshape from your face to your stationary non-dominant hand. Afterward, use the sign for 'blurry' by rubbing your hands together with open fingers in front of your face.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'image' the same as 'picture'?

Yes, in ASL, the sign for 'image' is exactly the same as the sign for 'picture' or 'photograph.' The context of your sentence will let the other person know which English word fits best. You don't need to learn a separate sign for these related concepts.

Does it matter which hand I use for the 'C' shape?

You should always use your dominant hand for the moving 'C' shape, and your non-dominant hand as the stationary flat surface. If you are left-handed, your left hand will form the 'C' and move to your right palm. Consistency with your dominant hand is important in ASL.

Should my non-dominant hand be facing me or sideways?

Your non-dominant hand should be held sideways, with the palm facing your dominant side, not facing directly toward you. This creates a natural surface for your dominant hand to easily place the 'C' shape against it without having to twist your wrist awkwardly.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!