If a single picture is worth a thousand words, imagine the value of a well planned and executed photo essay. This course explores the creation and sequencing of images in the tradition of the great photo essayists by examining both the creative methods and practical aspects that make up a picture story. 

Students will become familiar with the skills to produce extended photographic narratives, exploring the process of producing sets of imagery that conveys a story or idea having little written narrative support. Photographs will be analyzed not only for their stand-alone creative content but also for their ability to introduce dynamic sequential transitions and conclude a picture story with maximum visual effect. Course topics will include defining a point of view, creating key images such as establishing shots, environmental portraits and detail shots as part of the overall photo essay, photography and lighting equipment, and learning how to edit one’s own work. Marketing photo essays and self-book publishing – completing the project - will also be discussed.

The goal of the presentation by award-winning photographer Mark Edward Harris is provide the knowledge and inspiration to create a well-rounded picture story. 

Mark’s assignments have taken him to more than 100 countries on six continents. His books include Faces of the Twentieth Century: Master Photographers and Their Work, The Way of the Japanese Bath, Wanderlust, North Korea, South Korea, Inside Iran and The Travel Photo Essay: Describing A Journey Through Images.