There are many ways to tell a story with a camera. Some photographers catch a moment as it happens and let the picture speak for itself. Others arrange or edit the image to create a particular feeling. Others again use photographs to record the events and people in their lives. In every case the aim is the same: to make the viewer feel something.
If you are telling a story in several pictures, they should work together. You might keep one style throughout, or vary it from shot to shot. How you do it matters less than whether the pictures add up to a single story.
What does photo storytelling mean?
Photo storytelling is the art of using photographs to tell a story. It can capture a moment, record an event or simply convey an emotion. Photos are often combined with words to add context.
By using colour, composition, timing and framing consistently across a series, a photographer builds a narrative that goes beyond a single moment. A photo story can record a person's life, illustrate a complicated issue, or express joy, sadness or nostalgia.
What makes a photograph tell a story well?
A good storytelling photo is understood at once. Ideally the viewer needs no explanation. That is why composition and lighting matter so much: everything in the frame should support the story.
The other essential is emotion. You want the viewer to feel something and to connect with the picture. Colour, tone, expression and even props all help. Pictures that make people feel something are the ones they remember.
When does a story fail?
A story fails when the viewer cannot tell what the picture is about, or feels nothing. The cause may be poor composition, a lack of emotion or a muddled narrative.
Never forget why you took the photo. It is the most important question to ask when you decide on composition and settings. Once you know what you want the picture to say, it is easier to see what does not belong. Move, or crop, to lose anything at the edges that distracts. If you cannot fix it in the camera, editing may do it.
Five ways to be a better storyteller
- Make the subject obvious. Do not let other things in the frame compete with it. The viewer should know straight away where to look.
- Watch composition and light. Think about angle, viewpoint and framing, and about how the light falls on your subject.
- Look for emotion. Decide how you want people to feel, and look for the expression, gesture or detail that will make them feel it.
- Experiment. Storytelling is not one style. Try different colours, framing and timing, and find a way of telling stories that is your own.
- Keep learning. However long you have been taking photographs, there is more to learn. Study the work of other photographers and work out how they did it.
Conclusion
Any author will tell you that the key to a good story is knowing what it is. The same is true of photography. Know the theme and the message before you pick up the camera, and let them guide every decision, from the light to the subject. With practice it becomes second nature.
A story in pictures deserves to be seen. Our picture frames are made to measure, including frames that hold a whole series in one mount, and we are glad to advise on the best choice.
Call EasyFrame on 01234 856 501 or email sales@easyframe.co.uk. We are happy to talk it through even if you do not want to buy.