Picture it:

5 tips for working with newspaper photographers

You’ve finally convinced an editor that you story is worth telling. And miracle of miracles, she wants art! After the excitement begins to fade, panic sets in. What will I wear? Where will we take the photos? I look terrible, what if this person doesn’t like me? Good art is a crucial element in an effective news story. Lots of people read newspapers from cover to cover, but many more scan pages for points of interest. They’ll be drawn in by a photo and caption, then read the full story. You’ve been given a wonderful opportunity. How do you make it even better? If you are blessed and fortunate, an editor will send a photographer to your home or business. So work with 'em: 1. You’re going to have your picture taken. You can’t lose those last 10 pounds or have your eyes done. Live with it. Don’t insist that a photographer take only shots of your product, your business signage, your office. In this case, you are the story, even more than a building or logo. 2. If the photographer and reporter arrive together, ask to have your photo taken first, when you’re fresh. 3. Make sure you’ve touched up your look before the photographer arrives. It’s impolite to make someone wait, and you may be delaying another assignment. Which makes a photog cranky. 4. Be patient and open to suggestion. A photographer is trying to make you look good, because that makes the newspaper look good. 5. At the same time, don't be afraid to (respectfully) make suggestions that will help the photographer tell your story. On your own If a photographer isn’t assigned to cover your story, you can still save the day by submitting photos. A portrait of yourself and photos of your product or service in action - with an emphasis on the word “action” – will work very well. A good set of professional photographs can be worth their weight in gold, used again and again. Of course, the cost can be prohibitive for someone who’s just starting out. Whether you have a traditional film or digital camera, you can take images that will get you by until your budget allows more. Make sure you’ve got fresh film, enough memory and batteries. Pay close attention to framing your subject, lighting, background and focus. Think LIVELY. Unless you have a reputation as a terrible photographer. Then, think, “HELP.” If all of your pictures are blurry, badly framed, too dark or too light, do not tackle this project. Ask a friend, check with the members of a local photography club. Under no circumstances should you tackle this project yourself. Because the only thing worse than no photo is a bad photo.

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