Caption Writing An Introduction

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

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!!

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

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

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

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

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

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