Who, What, When, Where

Definition

Who, What, When, Where refers to the essential questions that help provide context and clarity in news photography captions. These four components ensure that the viewer understands the key elements of a photograph, including the subject, the action taking place, the timing of the event, and the location where it occurred. Properly addressing these components helps create informative and engaging captions that enhance the viewer's comprehension of the visual story being told.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Captions should be concise but informative, typically not exceeding two sentences in length while still covering the who, what, when, and where.
2. Using present tense in captions can make the action feel more immediate and engaging for the audience.
3. It's important to identify all individuals in a photo by full name on first reference, particularly for public figures or subjects involved in notable events.
4. When writing captions, context is key; providing background information can help the audience understand why an event is significant.
5. AP style emphasizes clarity and accuracy in caption writing, with a focus on factual representation without editorializing.

Review Questions

• How do the components of who, what, when, and where contribute to effective caption writing in news photography?
  • The components of who, what, when, and where are fundamental to effective caption writing as they provide a complete framework for understanding a photograph. 'Who' identifies the subjects involved, 'What' describes the action taking place, 'When' establishes the timing of the event, and 'Where' specifies the location. Together, these elements ensure that viewers can grasp the essential details quickly and effectively, making the image more impactful.
• In what ways does AP style influence how captions are crafted concerning the who, what, when, and where?
  • AP style provides specific guidelines for crafting captions that emphasize clarity and factual accuracy while covering the who, what, when, and where. For instance, it stresses using full names for individuals upon first reference and encourages present tense for immediacy. These guidelines ensure that captions are not only informative but also consistent with journalistic standards that prioritize straightforward communication without embellishment.
• Evaluate how mastering the who, what, when, and where can enhance visual storytelling in news photography.
  • Mastering who, what, when, and where enhances visual storytelling by ensuring that images are accompanied by clear and informative captions that provide essential context. This understanding allows photographers to connect with their audience on a deeper level by guiding viewers through the narrative portrayed in their images. By effectively communicating these four elements, photographers can create a more engaging experience that not only informs but also resonates emotionally with viewers.

Related terms

Photojournalism: A form of journalism that uses images to tell news stories, emphasizing truth and accuracy in depicting events.

Caption Writing: The process of creating text that accompanies an image to explain or provide context for what is depicted.

Visual Storytelling: The art of conveying a narrative through visual media, using images to evoke emotions and communicate messages effectively.