Course handoutCulture and storytelling
Photography and storytelling
How photographs tell stories — and why permission matters.
Theory and discussion only · Community education, not accredited training
Key takeaways
- 01Framing, light and small details shape the story a photograph tells.
- 02Always ask before photographing someone, and accept “no” without question.
- 03Permission to take a photo is not permission to share it.
In this course
01How a photograph tells a story
- Look for a moment that shows feeling or action
- Small details can say a lot
- Objects and places can tell stories without people
- Think about what the viewer will notice first
02Framing, light and composition
- Get closer and fill the frame
- Try placing the subject off-centre
- Check the background for distractions
- Use soft natural light where you can
- Hold still, or rest your arms on something
03Photo essays and captions
- Plan a beginning, middle and end
- Choose a small number of photos, such as five to ten
- Mix wide views and close details
- Keep captions short and accurate
04Asking permission to photograph people
- Ask first, every time
- Explain how the photo will be used
- “No” needs no reason
- Ask a parent or carer before photographing children
05Sharing images: consent and choice
- Taking a photo and sharing it need separate permission
- Tell people where the image will appear
- Remove images when asked
- Hands, objects and places can tell a story too
Talk it over
- Think of a photograph you remember well. What story does it tell?
- What might lead someone to decide not to be photographed?
- How could you tell a person’s story in photos without showing their face?
- What should happen if someone asks for their photo to be removed?
Reflect
Plan a short photo story of five pictures. What would each picture show?
How would you ask someone for permission to photograph them? Write the words you would use.