Quick Guide: Taking Photos – Page 7

Instructional photos may:

• Outline a step-by-step process (i.e., “how-to” photos).
• Identify parts of a larger whole (i.e., parts of machinery).
• Identify tools (i.e., lab equipment).
• Identify elements of the photo itself (i.e., call-outs to shadows, lighting, composition, etc.).
• Consider the importance of what is being demonstrated.

Make a plan. 

• Write out the steps you want to cover ahead of time (this can inform captions later).
• Thoughtfully plan the environment and setup. Consider:
  • Is the lighting good?
  • Is the background clean and clutter-free?
  • Will you have access to the same space or equipment later if you need to retake photos? (This will help to maintain a consistent appearance between photos.)
• Do you need help from others? (See Licensing Considerations earlier in this guide.)

Examples of poor instructional photos:

Figure 7. In this example, which demonstrates how to take a succulent cutting, the eye is distracted by a cluttered background. Additionally, and most importantly, the reader cannot clearly see where the scissors are cutting, which is vital in this instance.

Figure 8. In this example of a succulent cutting, the eye is confused by the clutter that surrounds the important element. The image is also poorly lit.

Examples of good instructional photos:

Figure 9. In this image demonstrating a succulent cutting, the background has been improved, and the focal point leads the eye to the correct place to snip the plant. This is also a great example of depth of field.

Figure 10. In this image, the cut piece of the succulent is the sole focus, and size is clearly demonstrated by including a human hand for scale.