WHY? is the key to great storytelling photos

Fuji X-E2, 18-55mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/2.8, 1/6

Great Photos Often Ask WHY?

When I look at this photo above I want to know not just what they are doing, but rather the more important question WHY.

My mentor Don Rutledge talked about how photographers need to approach their work like a child asking, "Why is the sky blue?"

I have written a few times on this blog about the importance of WHY.

When I meet students of photography I like to ask what other interest do they have other than photography. I am asking this because when I look at their portfolios none of the photos have a passion in them. I don't feel the photos.

We make the choice on what we are going to photograph. If you understand WHY you like to photograph something you are understanding what is the core emotional connection between a subject and the audience.

I recommend watching this TED talk by Simon Sinek on the importance of WHY

  

I like the simplicity of understanding of reversing our normal way of talking. Get to the heart of the matter is what he is saying.

When I meet those college students they are often telling what they like to do and how they like to do it but seldom do they ever tell me WHY.

This key to not just storytelling—it is core to finding the PURPOSE in your life. Once you understand why you like to do something it is much easier for you to chart the course for the rest of your life.

Key to a successful story:

• Why should the audience care?
• Why does this matter to the subject?
• Why does it matter to you?

Here is the Law of Diffusion and Innovation that Simon Sinek talks about in the video

Click on image to see larger and to read more here is a link