Storytelling in photography is a skill that some photographers have yet to master, and some stumble upon by accident. The art of storytelling involves being able to take the camera and use your photo to tell the viewer what is going on and invoke some kind of emotion in them. Not only does this skill set apart the wheat from the chaff, but one can also use the art of composition to achieve this amazing feat.  

Storytelling in Photohgraphy

Storytelling is either very personal or very practical/educational, when the context of the photo is taken into consideration. For example, if an individual were to take a photo of a wedding, a birthday party, they are doing so to capture a moment and bring to light the personal feelings they have and want to share them in the world. But if a wartime journalist were to take a photo of a famine stricken and dissolute area, they are doing so to inform the public of what is going on (the feelings invoked in the audience are entirely up to them). Here’s another article if you want learn more about storytelling!

Composition in Photography

Composition has to do with the different angles, tools and framing choices the photographer decides to use to correctly convey what they have they are viewing through their eyes. Not only is it the practical way of conveying your photo, but it allows amateur artists to create a story if done correctly.  

Check out this other article, by Anton Gorlin, that takes a more practical and experienced approach!

The last, and most important point to bring to light when discussing storytelling and composition is how the audience will view and perceive it. Where some may view a war photo as terrible, some may not be moved at all. Cultural and personal experiences are what gives photos meaning as everyone thinks differently. So, the true way that one knows that one has told a story through a photo is by getting everyone to feel the same emotion. 

If you liked this article, you’ll love this one!

References:

Featured Image: Sean Bagshaw

Storytelling Image: Paul Nicklen

Composition Image: Anton Gorlin

Storytelling Article: Sunshine and Shadow Photography

Composition Article: Anton Gorlin