1. CAPTIONS A How To

2. Why Captions? Captions do more than state the obvious 0 Explain what the readers don’t know or can’t see 0 - Consider the 5 W’s 0 - Get your facts straight! Do some investigating

3. Types of Captions (vary with function of caption) 1. ID Caption: Identifies individuals and offers a brief explanation of the photo’s content 2. Summary Caption: Highlights the most important aspects of the 5 W’s 3. Expanded Caption: Answers the 5 W’s and provides additional details, often direct quotes from individuals pictures

4. Types of Captions Cont’d 4. Quote Caption: Provides insights & info through the words of the subject of the photo or someone closely related to the activity 5. Group Identification: Identifies the group as well as the individual members by first and last names, beginning with the front row and continuing to the back row. 6. Collective Caption: Consists of two parts. One caption serves as an overview of all photos in the collection, giving information and insights relevant to all. The second identifies or briefly describes each individual photo.

5. Sports Captions 0 Require specific details & understanding 0 Must identify all players in the photo by name, jersey number, and position 0 Details about the results of the action in the photo or the impact of this particular play on the outcome add depth

6. Captions follow 3 Steps Gather the info to explain the photograph. - Remember the 5 W’s - Describe a pivotal moment at the event - Tell us something we CAN’T see in the picture

7. Step 2 Create a verbal/visual connection by brainstorming a list of attention-getting impact words that come to mind. - Use STRONG action verbs - Look for words and/or phrases used by the person featured in the photo (if you’ve interviewed them) - Develop a lead-in. (Keep reading to find out what this is )

8. Step 3 Write the caption! Be sure to choose the best format for the job!

9. Consider Design… Caption Format: 1. Lead-in: Serves as a mini-headline for your caption. You can use catchy words/phrases OR make bold font choices 2. 1 st sentence: identifies individuals and explains what’s happening. *Remember the 5 W’s* 3. 2 nd sentence: Adds info and insights, includes interesting info that relates to the photo. This info should enhance the caption 4. EVERY WORD COUNTS! Be very intentional and strategic in your writing

10. Practice Writing Captions for the following photos…