The words “Photo Essay” suggest a group of photographs that might be used in a book or magazine and arranged to explore a theme or tell a story.

Unlike a written essay, this approach focuses on pictures instead of words, and because pictures tell a complete story, some may feel the photo essay is more complete.

Of course, the creative opportunity for the essayist is expanded with photos, and chances are gained to find new ideas for the essay each time it is viewed. The problem with this is that the viewer may not see the message intended as clearly as with a written report, which excludes what the author is not interested in.

Many people take a photo daily without even considering that they are making a photo essay of their own life or those around them.

Black and White photos convey their message and can imply news, bleakness, and matter-of-fact messages compared to color, adding life. Living at a time when almost everyone is carrying a phone with a great camera, the whole idea of a “Photo of the Day” is a trending idea.