Caption writing in progress

   All photojournalists have certain ways they tell a story through their pictures.  A picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes a caption below the pictures explains more.

   Captions tell readers who, what, where, when, why and how.  These key answers help the reader to understand more about the picture.  

   Usually your first sentence is where these answers are located, and the information should always be accurate or they could lose their credibility.  Otherwise, the photojournalist could lose credibility.

   The Associate Press style guide is a tool that journalists use to help standardize the spelling, punctuation and grammar in their captions and stories.  The AP Stylebook is used by the vast majority of newspapers in the United States.  Journalists could lose their jobs or be less credible if they do not follow AP standards. 

   The AP Stylebook is the bible to journalists.  Many journalists keep their guide with them at all times for reference. 

   I use the AP Stylebook regularly.  Being the Editor-in-Chief of the Outlook, I want to be a good role model for my staff.   We keep copies of the book in our office for staff to use daily.  

   It is difficult to follow the AP Stylebook due to it being different than other formats that I have used.  It is a learning experience and it will come natural to me.            

Rossford Fire/ Rescue Explore Post 790 participate in a mock disaster Saturday July 12, at Owens Community College.  Fire departments from around Northwest Ohio helped the Explores get experience in the field of Fire and EMS services. (Photo by Katie Buzdor)