Photograph Checklist

The photograph answers who, what, why, when, where and how.
The photograph is newsworthy – it says something.
The photograph has a clear subject. Does the picture draw the viewer’s eye to the subject?
The photograph draws the viewer’s attention to the subject.
The photograph is simple with no extraneous information or clutter (try to select photo opportunities with a plain background).
A caption is included with the photograph that provides proper name, ages of subjects and a full description of the action.
The participants in the photograph have signed consent forms.
The photograph shows the subject from a front or side-view angle, if possible.
The photograph has the proper balance of shadow and light (facial features are not lost in shadow, for example).
The photograph does not crop out faces, limbs, etc.
Avoid “Grin and Shake” photos, such as photos of check passings for donations, etc. Instead, photograph an example/story of how the donation
will benefit others.

Colorado State University