Photojournalism

Though I am not a photographer (we have a brilliant team specifically for that!), I actively collaborate with the Midway's photojournalists to shape the visual dimension of my stories. From the beginning of an assignment, I consider how images will function alongside the text. I communicate my story angle, the central themes and the moments I anticipate may carry visual weight through detailed descriptions for the photojournalist to use as guidelines. These conversations help ensure that photography and writing develop in tandem rather than as separate components assembled messily at the end.

Photo Direction

When possible, I accompany photographers on shoots. Being present allows me to participate in decisions about framing, setting and subject emphasis, while also giving me a deeper understanding of how visual storytelling operates in real time. I’ve realized that a photograph can shift a reader’s interpretation just as much as a paragraph can, and that small choices (where a subject is standing, what enters the background, which moment is captured) can, like certain words, subtly alter tone and meaning. Observing and discussing these decisions has strengthened my ability to think beyond written language.

Picking Pics

My involvement continues after the images are taken. I often help select photos that best align with the story’s focus and write captions that provide clarity, accuracy and context. Caption writing demands precision: names, locations, and actions must be correct, while the language must remain concise and informative. This process reinforces the same standards of accuracy and ethical responsibility required in reporting.

The Message

These collaborations have broadened my understanding of journalism as something inherently multidisciplinary. Working with photojournalists has taught me to see storytelling as a shared endeavor, one that depends on trust, communication, and a mutual commitment to conveying truth. Even without holding the camera, I contribute to the visual integrity of our publication by ensuring that images and text work cohesively to inform the reader.