What are the steps in making a photo essay?

The idea behind a photo essay is that one photograph can convey a story far more effectively than a thousand words can. It takes some skill and practice to tell a great photo story, but it can be rewarding.

Step 1: Pick a topic that you love and care about.

Choosing a subject that matters to you makes the entire process easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re documenting a major event, like a political crisis or a family’s first month of life, or something more personal, such as a family’s home environment, finding what moves you is essential to creating a compelling essay.

Think about a thematic or narrative approach to your topic, and select photos that show a specific part of the story or illustrate a larger point. For example, if you’re creating an essay about the environmental crisis in China, choose a wide range of images that illustrate how different parts of the country are affected by the situation.

Consider a variety of shots for your collection, from wide-angles to close-up details. This way, you’ll have options if any of your main images need to be changed or you need a new angle for an overall shot.

Plan your shoot:

Having a plan for when and where you’ll be taking photographs can help you to stay on track with your project. It also gives you something to work with if things go off schedule. It doesn’t have to be rigid so you can allow flexibility, but sorting out shoot times, shoot dates, and shoot locations will give you a clear picture of what you’re working toward.