Visual elements
A tipsheet by Jessica A. Knoblauch, Knight Center for Environmental Journalism. (This tipsheet was gleaned from the 2006 Society of Environmental Journalists national conference.)
Download a printable version of this tipsheet
In a super-busy world, journalists must catch readers’ attention fast. Graphics are an efficient way of doing so.
Consider:
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A good graphic is the same as a good nut graph. It should illuminate the gist of the story (Dina Cappiello, Houston Chronicle)
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Graphics are good for timelines, data trends, comparative data, maps, sequential events, report cards and any complicated process or concept (Lisa Stiffler, Seattle Post-Intelligencer)
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Good graphics require good reporting. (Cappiello)
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Don't just hand over your copy and expect the graphics department to come up with a visual. Pick out what you want to illustrate to make the process much easier. (Stiffler)
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Imagine yourself as the reader. Would the graphic that you're considering interest you?
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Think multi-media for the Web version of your story. See www.soundslides.com to create an audio slideshow to accompany your next article. Back to top
