Frame your messages like a photographer

I’ll be the first to admit I’m not a professional photographer, or some would argue even a good photographer. But I love great photos. Having worked for two decades in journalism, I’ve been around some great shutterbugs.

A worker guides a beam being placed on the Mountain Parkway. (Photo by David Stephenson)
A worker guides a beam being placed on the Mountain Parkway. (Photo by David Stephenson)

As a result, I’ve learned a few things about taking pictures. The process starts much the same way as good communications – with framing.

For photographers, framing is how to compose a photo. It’s what you include and don’t include in the picture. Framing draws attention to the photo’s subject, defines the image and provides context.

Framing communications is very similar. It allows you to set the tone of a message and how you present it. You create the words, decide the medium and messenger and provide the context to make your message convincing.

To frame your message like a photographer frames a photo:

Focus on the main subject. Ultimately, most communications have only one or two main points to convey to your audience. Stick to your focal points and make them central to your communications. Like a photographer, make sure the subject is clearly evident. Without focus, your audience’s attention will stray.

 Cut out unnecessary information. Often minor points and information that are not pertinent surround your subject. In communications, we sometimes describe this as noise, and it can interrupt or disrupt your message. Like a photographer, cut (or crop) the information that doesn’t complement your main message. If that means remaining ultra-focused on the subject – like a close-up photo – do it. Save useful additional information for later messages.

 Choose the right moment. A big part of getting the right picture is taking it at the right time. We’ve all seen this. You snap a photo just as everyone’s eyes close. Sending a message at the right time is just as important. If it’s too early, you probably don’t have all the information you need or your audience isn’t ready to receive it. If you’re too late, you might miss the chance to be convincing or guide a discussion. Timing really is everything.

Communications is an art much like photography. With careful attention and practice, communicators too can compose beautiful pieces of work.

Share This Article
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email
Pinterest
Holli Sullivan

Indiana Secretary of State Holli Sullivan to Join Regional PR Firm C2 Strategic Communications

C2 Strategic Communications, a leading regional public relations firm, announced that departing Indiana Secretary of State Holli Sullivan will join the company next month. Sullivan will lead the team’s Indiana business operations, which includes large-scale transportation, infrastructure and energy clients from Indianapolis to Evansville. Sullivan’s experience as an industrial engineer, Indiana legislator and the state’s

Read More »
C2 Strategic Communications wins PRSA "Landmarks of Excellence" Awards

C2 Strategic wins multiple PRSA “Landmarks of Excellence” Awards

Multiple public relations and marketing communications projects by C2 Strategic Communications earned praise at the 2021 Landmarks of Excellence Awards by the Public Relations Society of America Bluegrass Chapter. Members of the C2 Strategic team attended the Oct. 14 event at the Kentucky Derby Museum to network, celebrate a successful year and receive their awards.

Read More »

Louisville’s largest public relations firm continues to expand with addition of senior strategist Dominic Manecke

C2 Strategic Communications is excited to announce the latest addition to its all-star team of public relations professionals. Dominic Manecke, an award-winning communications expert with extensive experience working alongside a multitude of corporate leaders and government officials, joins C2 Strategic as senior strategist in its Louisville headquarters. Dominic comes to C2 Strategic after more than

Read More »
Scroll to Top