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Chapter 362The next step was to conduct a visual analysis: in each visualization, we identified the type of visualization, for example, map, photograph, diagram, infographic, cartoon. In addition, we used a visual content analysis (Bell, 2001; Rose, 2001) to code what the visualization depicts, for example, natural landscape, industrial site, people, words. We then used the type and content to identify similar visualizations. Finally, in those similar visualizations, we coded the visual storyline by performing a detailed analysis of the key themes and the particular way they are represented in (Rose, 2001, pp. 151–158).3.4 Empirical examples: visual storylinesTo show a possible interplay between the visual and textual storylines and to be able to make ‘grounded’ claims (meaning, claims that are associated with the controversy in the three locations, see Rogers, 2013), we selected as empirical examples three types of visualization: photographs, maps, and infographics. We ensured that these types of visualization, which occur the most in our dataset, are evenly distributed over the three internet regions. While photographs suggest a seemingly authentic representation of reality, maps and infographics are two types of data visualizations designed to communicate data in a more graphic and easily accessible way. We selected those cases that we believe illustrate in the most interesting way the four dynamics between the discursive storyline and the visual storyline discourse coalitions employ.3.4.1 Confirmation of one discourse coalition: the example of photographs of flames in the NY controversyIn the NY shale gas controversy, previous research identified the environmental threat discourse coalition (Dodge & Lee, 2017). Actors belonging to this coalition – environmental organizations, members of the public, public officials, and lawmakers – use a discursive storyline that focuses on the undesirable environmental impacts of fracking by casting doubt on existing knowledge and the preparedness of institutions (Dodge & Lee, 2017, p. 21).Two actors in this coalition, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and Sierra Club, both use photographs of flames. NRDC uses a photograph of someone who ignites a flame from a flow of water on the ground and narrates a storyline of Efrat.indd 62 19-09-2023 09:47