We know that students are snapping more photographs than ever before (largely thanks to photo options on cell phones). Now they can showcase a photograph and submit meaningful captions. “Pictory is a showcase for people around the world to document their lives and cultures. Anyone can submit one large, captioned image to each of Pictory’s editorial themes.” Give students an opportunity to submit their favorite photo and caption, but be aware….not all photographs will be published on this site and students can only submit one photo per category. The pressure of submitting only your best photo and caption should help encourage careful, thoughtful editing. Why just one photo? The editor of this site wants you (and your students) to pick your best image. The site is designed to help a diverse group of people put together collaborative photo essays.
I especially enjoyed exploring the images and reading the stories that were selected for the Overseas and Overwhelmed Pictory section. I do hope you will take time to peruse the photo essays included in that category. Currently there are several themes open for submission:
- The House I Grew Up In
- Local Delicacy
- The One Who Got Away
- Learning from Our Elders
- My Most Meaningful Image
Do’s and Dont’s as posted on the site…
- Do submit a photo that you took.
- Do write the caption yourself, and/or credit anyone who helps you.
- Do make sure your photo is at least 1000 pixels wide (at any height).
- Do pick one best photo for each theme, and make sure it’s a good fit.
- Do consider appropriateness for viewers of all ages when choosing your photo and writing your text.
- Don’t add text or watermarks to your images.
- Don’t stretch your photo in one dimension.
- Don’t send nude photos or inappropriate content.
- Don’t add borders to your image.
- Don’t send in illustrations, drawings, paintings, or other non-photographic images.
