1. Caption Writing
An Introduction

2. Three Parts to a Caption
Lead-In
Sentence One
Sentence Two

3. Part One – The Lead-In Capture the reader’s attention
Identify which photo the caption relates to
One-two words, or a short phrase
Serves as a mini-headline
Set off with larger font or a different typeface
Be consistent!!

4. Sentence One Written in present tense
Identifies and describes the content (who, what, where, when)
GO BEYOND THE OBVIOUS!!
Focus on little-known details
Answer the readers questions
Use specific names, visual nouns and action verbs
Try to avoid starting with names

5. Sentence Two Written in past tense
Presents after-the-facts information
Focuses on the why and how
Gives readers answers to their questions

6. Optional Add a direct quote as sentence two
For sports, add the outcome of the game, or the significance of the play

7. Exceptions Team Pictures: Use First Row, Second Row, etc.
List first and last names
- Locate a roster so names are correct
- Not sure who someone is, ask some who would know

8. Exceptions Group pictures: a group is counted as six or more people
Organization pictures: follow the same guidelines for team pictures

9. Checklist Don’t start with names Avoid opinions Keep things consistent
Don’t state the obvious
Use first and last names
Mark rows if necessary
Avoid made-up information
Avoid opinions
Keep things consistent
Use the right tense
Answer all questions about the photo content