Key Ingredients for Visual Storytelling
Storytelling, when rooted in care, can move hearts as powerfully as science ever could. Christina Mittermeir
Do you have a story to tell? I’ve been asked to present a short talk at my camera club this week on photojournalism. I’ve created a list of key ingredients that help build a visual story. My interest is wildlife, but these points can be used for any subject. What’s your passion?
1. Begin with the topic that you care about.
Big Tusker Tim was known as a gentle giant and ambassador for his species. I dreamed of meeting him on safari. ©kathykarn
2. In wildlife photography let the animals take centre stage. Know your subject, location, and background.
The tusks of a “Big Tusker” bull elephant weigh over 100 lbs (45kgs) each making them targets for poachers and the ivory trade. The only one who needs ivory is an elephant. ©kathykarn
3. Choose images that work both individually and together.
The bond between an elephant calf and its mother is one of the most profound and essential relationships in the animal kingdom. Elephant calves depend on their mothers for nourishment, protection, emotional support and social development. ©kathykarn
4. Images that evoke emotion engage the viewer and add impact.
Hundreds of elephants of elephants came right to me, like mourners to the bereaved. They shattered the wall of my grief and opened my heart with their silent, calm procession. ©kathykarn
5. Use a variety of images: details, wide angles, closeups, environmental settings.
An iconic Amboseili morning: Mt. Kilimanjaro, flat topped acacia trees and elephants. ©kathykarn
6. Take images from different perspectives.
I lay on the floor of the truck so I could get down low. ©juliuspilipilimemusi
7. Stay consistent in your style tone and coloration.
Eco friendly sustainable tourism is part of the solution for saving endangered species and supporting the people who co-exist with them. ©kathykarn
8. Provide context. Show the setting the people and the culture. Characters help viewers identify with the story and sustain interest.
An experienced guide plays a key role in a great adventure. My Maasai guide, Pilipili, understands the land, the elephants and the people. We share a love and deep respect for elephants and the lessons they can teach us. ©juliuspilipilimemusi
What you have to do is get into the heart. And how do you get into the heart? With stories. Jane Goodall
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