Caption

writing

Its
as
easy
as

1
2
3

The Lead-In. Used to capture the readers attention, it signals

to which photograph the caption relates. It can be one or two
words or a short phrase. This lead-in serves as a mini-headline
for the caption. Often, it is typeset in a different typeface or size to
give it added impact. BREAKING FREE
Sentence One. Written in present tense, the first sentence
completely identifies (who, what, when, where) and describes
the content, focusing on interesting, little-known details that go
beyond the obvious. It answers the readers questions concerning
the action of the photo. Use specific names, visual nouns and
strong action verbs. Avoid starting a caption with the name of an
individual or the group. In the winter musical, seniors Charlotte
Gunn and Taubert Nadalini perform a duet from the Disney hit
High School Musical.
Sentence Two. Written in past tense, it presents behind-thescenes facts. This part of the caption often focuses on the why
and how. It supplies readers with answers to their questions and
should tell about something that cannot be seen in the photo.
The pair performed as Gabriella and Troy, while other starring
roles included freshman Link Lipsitz as Ryan and Hockaday
student Ashley Rich as Sharpay.
Optional. To add a personalized touch, writers have begun to add
a direct quote as the last sentence in the writing. Performing in
the winter musical was the highight of my high school career,
said Gunn of her experience.
Extra Notes: In sports captions, add the outcome of the game
and the significance of the play pictured. For group pictures, use
FRONT ROW: BACK ROW: and list first and last names.

WRiTING | A c t i v i t y
1,2,3 Yearbook Curriculum, 2010, Jostens, Inc.

Its
your
turn

1
2
3

Caption
Facts
Using the format from the previous page,
write a caption for a photo in your book.

THE LEAD-IN

SENTENCE ONE
PRESENT TENSE

SENTENCE TWO
PAST TENSE

QUOTE

optional
WRiTING | A c t i v i t y

1,2,3 Yearbook Curriculum, 2010, Jostens, Inc.