The job of the photojournalist is making a storytelling photograph that connects with the viewer.

3.1Straight to the Heart: Making a Photo a Quick Read

The first step to better photographs is thinking through the assignment.• before the shoot• after the shoot

3.1Straight to the Heart: Making a Photo a Quick Read

Storytelling photography isn’t only about technical skill. Two things all photographers should carry with them: patience and curiosity.

3.2Emotional Impact: Storytelling Skills

Your job is to record real life – you are a journalist, after all. Reporters cannot fabricate stories, so photojournalists should not fabricate photos.

3.2Emotional Impact: Storytelling Skills

Simplicity is an important element of making great photos. The key is to eliminate non-essential elements from the frame to reduce distraction.

3.2Emotional Impact: Storytelling Skills

Galleryphoto by:Eric Gardner, Bronson Junior/Senior High School, Bronson, MI

Galleryphoto by:Ashley Hensley, Duncanville High School, Duncanville, TX

Composition is all about planning, positioning and arranging elements in a photograph so that the image communicates as powerfully as it can.

3.3Power Plan: Elements of Composition

Center of interest: Make sure the main subject of your photograph is obviously the most prominent item in the photo.

3.3Power Plan: Elements of Composition

Galleryphoto by:Karen Fitzpatrick, Cresenta Valley High School, La Crescenta, CA

To apply the rule of thirds, you need to visualize your viewfinder being divided into nine separate areas. Your subject will be placed at one of the intersections of the lines.

3.3Power Plan: Elements of Composition

3.3Power Plan: Elements of Composition

3.3Power Plan: Elements of Composition