What is a photo essay?

• A photo essay is very simply a collection of images that are placed in a specific order to tell the progression of events, emotions, and concepts.

1. Find a topic

• Choose a topic from the time period of 1920s-1930s California.

• Examples: migrant workers, immigration, agriculture/food shortages, etc.

• If you choose a different topic, you must clear it with me.

2. Choose 5 photos

• These photos should tell a story and convey an emotion.

• Do your research: before you choose photos, you should understand the background of the time period.

3. Create your captions

• Captions should be specific and detailed. Tell me who is in the photo, what they are doing, and why. Be sure to include any relevant historical data as well.

Create your layout

• Use power point to create a unique layout. This is your opportunity to be creative.