Browse All Products
en
Search products
Search products

TABLE OF CONTENTS

    Shocking Print Ads Everyone is Talking About

    user icon

    Emma Davis

    Content Writer

    Nov 8, 20243049 views

    Nov 8, 20243049 views

    Shocking Print Ads Everyone is Talking About

    TABLE OF CONTENTS

      The power of a good design is often measured by the reactions it gets. Most brands will try an appealing design to attract potential customers. Something that evokes positive feelings that people can later relate to the brand. However, that is not always the case; at times a design is deliberately made to shock viewers and raise some eyebrows. Usually you'll find these in either in the fashion industry -which usually tries to shock to stand out- or in ads promoting humanitarian causes, health campaigns and social initiatives. Shocking advertising can be crude and borderline inappropriate, but it does a great job when it comes to getting something noticed and discussed. After all, we can all learn a lot about ourselves by the way we react to certain art pieces. We gathered a few of these that we believe are creative in concept and well executed. They definitely got us thinking and talking! Before you scroll down: Remember to keep an open mind; some are not meant to be pretty.

      1. Domestic Violence Awareness shared by Gary Bembridge

      [caption id="attachment_6235" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
      Shocking Print Ads Everyone is Talking About Posted by Gary Bembridge on Pinterest[/caption] Shocking Ads 101: For full impact use a popular image in a completely opposite and unexpected way to get attention. Well, in this case it worked: they used a well known Disney princess to reach the female audience and create awareness against domestic violence. It definitely made us look twice and the short and specific copy really brings the concept together.

      2. Smoking Risks shared by Gary Bembridge

      [caption id="attachment_6236" align="aligncenter" width="580"] Posted by Gary Bembridge on Pinterest[/caption] Would you feed a cigarette to a baby? People have been trying to warn smokers of its imminent risks for years and that hardly ever works, this is just a more creative take for those ignoring softer advice.

      3. A Swimming Invitation shared by Danielle Cathers

      [caption id="attachment_6237" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Posted by Danielle Cathers on Pinterest[/caption] This is not only a very creative way to show a ‘before and after’ pic, it is also a motivation to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Would you go for it?

      4. A Claim for Non-Animal Tested Cosmetics shared by Mau Chiunti

      [caption id="attachment_6238" align="aligncenter" width="736"] Posted by Mau Chiunti on Pinterest[/caption] Regardless of the years of scandal the animal tested cosmetics has seen, some manufacturers continue the controversial practice. A shocking print ad like this attempts to raise customer awareness instead industry amendments.

      5. A Demand for Actions shared by Daren Herbert

      [caption id="attachment_6239" align="aligncenter" width="660"] Posted by Daren Herbert on Pinterest[/caption] Surely you have seen a ‘like this photo’ campaign to help a cause. The photo really doesn’t need much explaining.

      6. An Eco-Friendly Ad shared by Anna Negrini

      [caption id="attachment_6240" align="aligncenter" width="620"] Posted by Anna Negrini on Pinterest[/caption] This ad is cleverly designed to be a visual warning. It’s an interactive format and the message comes across clearly.

      7. A Smokey Bite shared by Anna Yelloh

      [caption id="attachment_6241" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Posted by Anna Yelloh on Pinterest[/caption] Not the best image to see right before having lunch, right? But when it comes to determined nicotine seekers, no graphic efforts seem to be enough.

      8. A Warning About Sugary Drinks shared by Kristy Ratliff

      [caption id="attachment_6242" align="aligncenter" width="650"] Posted by Kristy Ratliff on Pinterest[/caption] Perhaps you’ll think about it while drinking your next soft drink.

      9. Work Safety Awareness shared by Maria Leal

      [caption id="attachment_6243" align="aligncenter" width="560"] Posted by Maria Leal on Pinterest[/caption] WorkSafe is well known for its shockingly real images. They encourage workers and employers to make sure they are complying with all safety requirements.

      10. Gun Control Awareness shared by Flor Ocegueda

      [caption id="attachment_6244" align="aligncenter" width="736"] Posted by Flor Ocegueda on Pinterest[/caption] One of the most controversial issues in America portrayed in one picture. Shocking advertising seeks to appeal human emotion. For that to happen, it avoids softer messages we are used to seeing already, basically because it would not have the same effect on people. Advertisers aim at creating a debate around the controversial content, so that the main issue will also reach the desired audience. What are your thoughts on shocking print ads? Do they go too far? Leave a comment below and let us know!

      More from

      10 Business Card Design Trends for 2024
      story
      10 Business Card Design Trends for 2024

      589

      Business cards are still important for marketing in 2024. For e

      Emma DavisEmma Davis

      Nov 8, 2024

      50 Best Ideas on What to Say in a Birthday Card: Heartfelt Messages for Everyone
      story
      50 Best Ideas on What to Say in a Birthday Card: Heartfelt Messages for Everyone

      759

      Celebrating a loved one's birthday is a special occasion, and finding the perfect words to express your feelings can make their day even m

      Emma DavisEmma Davis

      Nov 8, 2024

      How to Make Business Cards
      story
      How to Make Business Cards

      8255

      Whether you're an established business magnate or an emerging entrepreneur on the rise, one thing remains undeniable:

      Emma DavisEmma Davis

      Nov 8, 2024

      What Are Pocket Folders: Boost Branding & Organization
      story
      What Are Pocket Folders: Boost Branding & Organization

      17240

      People often overlook the importance of pocket folders in businesses. This is the world of digital media where LinkedIn and Google g

      Nov 8, 2024

      Crafting the Perfect First Impression: Free Business Cards Templates and Maker
      story
      Crafting the Perfect First Impression: Free Business Cards Templates and Maker

      8257

      A well-designed business card is important for making a memorable first impression. It represents your brand

      Emma DavisEmma Davis

      Nov 8, 2024

      What The Size of Your Business Card Says About Your Brand
      story
      What The Size of Your Business Card Says About Your Brand

      7280

      A business card can help represent you professionally. These cards contain your contact info, job title, and company details. As a result, the

      Matthew PrinceMatthew Prince

      Nov 8, 2024

      Home
      Products
      Favorites
      Cart
      Account