Who, What, Where, When

Definition

Who, What, Where, When are fundamental elements used to construct informative and accurate captions in news photography. These elements provide essential context for the viewer, allowing them to understand the subject matter, setting, and timing of the image, thus enhancing the overall storytelling of the photograph.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In caption writing, 'Who' refers to the individuals involved in the photograph, which could include names, titles, or roles to give proper identification.
2. 'What' pertains to the action or event being depicted in the photo, clarifying what is happening and its relevance to the audience.
3. 'Where' identifies the location of the event, providing geographical context that can affect the interpretation of the image.
4. 'When' indicates the timing of the event captured in the photo, helping viewers understand if it is recent or part of a historical context.
5. Including all four elements helps create a complete picture for the audience, making the photograph more engaging and informative.

Review Questions

• How do the elements of 'Who' and 'What' enhance the understanding of a news photograph?
  • 'Who' provides essential identification of individuals involved in the event or scene, while 'What' describes the action taking place. Together, these elements offer a clearer narrative that allows viewers to grasp not only who is featured but also what is happening. This combined information helps to engage viewers and gives them a more comprehensive understanding of the image's significance.
• Discuss how including 'Where' and 'When' can change a viewer's perception of a news image.
  • 'Where' and 'When' add crucial context that can shift how an audience interprets an image. For instance, knowing that a photo was taken during a significant event in a specific location can influence how viewers perceive its importance. This information may evoke feelings of urgency or relevance depending on current events, making these elements essential for accurate storytelling.
• Evaluate how effectively using 'Who, What, Where, When' can impact journalistic integrity in news photography.
  • Effectively using 'Who, What, Where, When' ensures that captions are accurate and informative, which upholds journalistic integrity. Captions that provide complete context help prevent misinformation and misinterpretation of images. By faithfully representing the subjects and events captured in photographs, photographers and journalists reinforce their credibility and maintain trust with their audience. This thorough approach fosters responsible reporting and enhances public understanding of complex issues.

Related terms

Caption: A brief explanation or description accompanying an image, providing context and additional information for the viewer.

Context: The circumstances or background information surrounding an event or subject that help explain its significance.

Visual Narrative: The use of visual imagery to tell a story or convey a message, often enhanced by captions and context.