A rich picture is a free-form, visual representation of a complex situation, designed to capture the diverse perspectives and subjective experiences of those involved. It's not about creating a precise, technical diagram; instead, it's about sketching out the messy reality of a situation using symbols, doodles, words, and connections. The purpose is to explore and understand, rather than to define or solve. Rich pictures are particularly valuable in food systems analysis because they allow us to capture the inherent complexity and subjectivity of these systems. They acknowledge that food systems are influenced by a multitude of factors, including social, economic, environmental, and cultural elements, and that these factors are often perceived differently by different stakeholders. 

For example, a rich picture of a local food market might include drawings of farmers, consumers, vendors, and government officials, along with symbols representing resources, challenges, and relationships. It might also include speech bubbles to capture the diverse opinions and concerns of these actors. Crucially, a rich picture is not intended to be a definitive representation of the situation. It's a tool for exploration, a way to spark conversation and generate insights. It's a snapshot of a particular moment in time, reflecting the perspectives and biases of those who created it.