A picture is worth a thousand words. The right editorial photos can speak volumes. Beyond the essentials of resolution and focus, I look for several quick but critical elements.
1) Eye Contact
They say the eyes are the gateway to the soul, and the power of eye contact in editorial photos can’t be overstated. It’s a subtle way to connect the subject and the reader. Imagine two photos of the same individual; one where the subject’s gaze meets the viewer and the other where it doesn’t. The first invariably draws the reader into the narrative, creating an instant, unspoken dialogue—forging a connection from the reader to the subject and story. Eye contact engages, making a story or message relatable and memorable.
2. Movement
I’m often drawn to photos where the subject is captured mid-action. Especially when combined with extensive text, an action shot provides vitality and energy to a design layout. Compare these two photos of figure skaters. The dynamic line of motion in the second is far more captivating than the first. It encapsulates the sport’s grace and provides a short visual pause for the reader.
3. Strategic Potential for Text Placement
In editorial layouts, particularly magazine spreads or covers, the availability of usable text space is a priority. For cover photos, I generally look for compositions where the top portion has clear space for the title without infringing on the photo integrity. For inside spreads like the example below, I like open spaces where I can creatively wrap the text in and around the subject. The art lies in balancing the image’s integrity with the text’s readability to create a cohesive blend.
While these are just a few factors in selecting the perfect editorial photo, they are undoubtedly important. Images shouldn’t simply complement the written content; they should elevate the entire narrative experience, transforming a simple photograph into a compelling piece of visual storytelling.