A planned photography schedule avoids the expense of unneeded photos and ensures that you will have media-acceptable photos.

A Winning Photo (Media Standards):

• Must have good lighting, composition and action.

• Must stand on its own with a brief explanatory caption (cutline) to justify its use.

• Must be professional quality. (If you take your own photographs, use a single lens reflex model camera with a high quality zoom lens and separate flash unit that will provide illumination for distant shots, such as those taken at shows. If your camera offers the option to imprint the date/time on the photograph, do not use that option.)

• Must be in sharp focus. Choose a clear photo with less impact over a fuzzy photo that tells your story completely. In this case, some coverage is better than no coverage.

• Must have subjects grouped closely together, preferably with the most important person on the left-hand side of the group, so she will get the first mention in the caption. (Limit the size of the group to four or five people when individual names will be captioned.)
  
  
• Must have neat and tidy foregrounds and backgrounds (no patterned wallpaper, mirrors, etc. to detract from the subject).
  
  
• Has glossy finish (because it reproduces best).
  
  
• Is usually black-and-white (because it reproduces best). Send color prints or transparencies if the editor requests them. Typical sizes are 3 1/2" x 5"; 4" x 6"; 5" x 7"; and 8" x 10".
  
  
• Is never attached with paper clips.
  
  
• Has a label on the back that:
  Identifies the persons in the photo by name and title, or identifies the subject of the photo.
  Provides the information contact's name and address/phone.
  States photographer credit and copyright information.
  
  
• May be a way to secure media coverage, especially if your event clashes with a major news incident.

Helpful Hints:

• Use protective cardboard to prevent damage to the photo when mailing releases with photos.
  
  
• Note W/PIX on the release when including a photo.
  
  
• Do not expect to have your photo returned from the publication unless a prior agreement has been reached with the reporter or editor.
  
  
• Choose a horizontal photo rather than a vertical one. It is often proportioned better to fit across a publication's vertical columns.
  
  
• Tape the photo at the top edge of the stationery and type the caption below. When folded, the stationery protects the photo's surface.

• You may ask the press photographers for prints but don't get in the way of their assignment.
  
  
• Professional and amateur photographers may cover your event for a minimal fee to gain exposure to your group.
  
  
• Search the World Wide Web for more information on taking and using photography effectively.

 

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