Assignment - The Photo Essay

A photo essay is a collection of photos that help tell the story of something or someone or a group of people engaged in something. Vague? Well it should be. Almost anything could be used for your photo essay.
Find something that has to do with your connection to Lakeshore - either the school or the community. It should be something that interests you. Check with Ms. Silverman once you have a topic in mind.

Types of photos:
Action - people doing. People engaged in an activity. Not posed.
Reaction - people reacting to something. These shots show emotion and add so much to the human aspect of the story.
Environment - what are the physical surroundings? Get a wide shot that shows the whole space you're telling the story about. Also, you can try to capture the 'vibe' of the environment - the mood - are people happy/sad/excited etc.?
Detail/Close-up - Find some interesting details that can help show specific aspects of the story you're trying to tell. Get some well composed close up shots to demonstrate this.
People - more candid shots of people that can help add to the depth of the story you're telling.

Step 1: Choose your topic. Find a topic that can be narrowed down to be as specific as possible so that you can capture this 'story' in 5-10 photos.

Step 2: Make a list of photo ideas so you don't forget anything when you're shooting. Write down specific ideas you might have to capture action, reaction, environment etc. Show this list to Ms. Silverman with your story idea for a mark and approval BEFORE going out to shoot. Then, take the list with you so you don't forget anything!

Step 3: Go out and shoot. Sign out a camera for when you need it and start shooting!

Step 4: Edit. Find 5-10 photos that tell the story. Make each of the photos you choose the best compositions, but also the best variety to help tell your story. Edit them to improve contrast and cropping.

Step 5: Submit to the drop folder in a folder you call Photo_Essay_lastname_firstInitial. AND post them on your blog with a caption that explains each photo. Captions should add information, and not just state the obvious. They should include accurate names and dates and information.