Even if a picture is worth a thousand words, it still needs a caption to draw readers, provide context and tell the story. Here are some tips for writing effective captions.
Check the facts. Be accurate with credit lines, details and anything else that might catch a reader’s eye.
Captions should add new information. Don’t merely repeat the story headline or summary, and avoid stating the obvious elements that are captured in the image. The caption should add context to the image, not just duplicate what the reader already sees.
Always identify the main people in the photograph.
A photograph captures a moment in time. Whenever possible, use present tense. This creates a sense of immediacy and impact.
Conversational language works best. Write the caption as though you are talking to a family member or friend.
The tone of the caption should match the tone of the image. Don’t try to be humorous when the photo is not.
Support high-integrity, independent journalism that serves democracy. Make a gift to Poynter today. The Poynter Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, and your gift helps us make good journalism better.
For a caption to be effective, it includes elements to help the reader easily identify key details and context of the story behind an image or video. Those elements are the Who, What, Where, When, Why and/or How. Use the ABCs of caption writing to help you with these elements when writing captions.
For a caption to be effective, it includes elements to help the reader easily identify key details and context of the story behind an image or video. Those elements are the Who, What, Where, When, Why and/or How. Use the ABCs of caption writing to help you with these elements when writing captions.
For example, if you have a photo of a sunset you might want to caption it as: “Pacific coast sunset, March2016, from Long Beach, Vancouver Island." Also avoid using terms like: “is shown,” “is pictured,” “and looks on,” or “above."
Here are some best practices to help you create captivating and effective captions: Know Your Audience: Understand your target audience's interests, preferences, and values. Tailor your captions to resonate with their demographics and behaviors.
Not only do captions improve accessibility for viewers with disabilities, but they can also improve audience engagement across the board. For example, many creators now recognize that including captions in social media videos and advertisem*nts can boost click-through rates and increase overall watch time.
Introduction: My name is Mr. See Jast, I am a open, jolly, gorgeous, courageous, inexpensive, friendly, homely person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
We notice you're using an ad blocker
Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you.
