1, 2, 3 Expanded Caption Writing

STEP 1 - LEARN Expanded captions have three parts. A lead-in A first sentence in present tense A second sentence in past tense An optional quote as a last sentence

EXPANDED CAPTIONS IN THREE STEPS // 1 THE LEAD-IN. Used to capture the reader’s attention, it signals to which photograph the caption relates. It can be one or two words or a short phrase. The lead-in serves as a mini-headline for the caption. Often, it is typeset in a different typeface or size to give it added impact. An example would be “BREAKING FREE” 2 SENTENCE ONE. Written in present tense, the first sentence completely identifies the who, what, when and where and describes the content, focusing on interesting, little-known details that go beyond the obvious. It answers the reader’s questions concerning the action of the photo. Use specific names, visual nouns and strong action verbs. Avoid starting a caption with the name of an individual or the group. An example: “In the winter musical, seniors Charlotte Gunn and Taubert Nadalini perform a duet from the Disney hit High School Musical.” 3 SENTENCE TWO. Written in past tense, it presents behind-the-scenes facts. This part of the caption often focuses on the why and how. It supplies readers with answers to their questions and should tell about something that cannot be seen in the photo. An example: “The pair performed as Gabriella and Troy, while other starring roles included freshman Link Lipsitz and Ryan and Hockaday student Ashley Rich as Sharpay.” OPTIONAL To add a personalized touch, add a direct quote as the last sentence in the writing. An example: “Performing in the winter musical was the highlight of my high school career,” said Gunn of her experience.

St. Mark’s School of Texas [TX] BREAKING FREE In the winter musical, seniors Charlotte Gunn and Taubert Nadalini perform a duet from the Disney hit High School Musical. The pair performed as Gabriella and Troy, while other starring roles include freshman Link Lipsitz as Ryan and Hockaday student Ashley Rich as Sharpay. St. Mark’s School of Texas [TX]

Loudoun Valley High School [TX] LAST MOMENT At Senior Night Dec. 17, Ny Gillis and Molly Russo receive a flower from Coach Jenifer Cooper-Barrlow. The coaches and teammates honored the work the seniors put towards the team. “My favorite event is bars because I have something to hold on to. Swinging through the air is thrilling and such a rush,” Ny said. Loudoun Valley High School [TX]

STEP 2 - PRACTICE Using the 1, 2, 3 process, write an expanded caption for the photo on the next slide.

1 THE LEAD-IN. One or two words 2 SENTENCE ONE. Written in present tense, the first sentence completely identifies the who, what, when and where and describes the content, focusing on interesting, little-known details that go beyond the obvious. 3 SENTENCE TWO. Written in past tense, it presents behind-the-scenes facts. OPTIONAL DIRECT QUOTE Because this is practice, you may use fake facts and names. Real captions must ALWAYS be factual. Amanda Pankhurst, Amboy High School [IL]

STEP 3 - DO Choose a photo from the photos on the caption class page that you have not used yet. On notbook paper, write an expanded caption for it using the 3-step process.