A picture is worth a thousand words. It is worth more when it is accompanied by a good caption. Photo captions are the most read body type in any publication especially when they often capture readers’ attention. This is so if the caption provides a context and background that will interest readers. Let’s take a look at a few pointers on writing captions for pictures that will engage your readers.

Be concise

Captions should be short and to the point. They are the words that deliver a punch to images. Having too many words in a caption will lose the impact it is supposed to have on readers. Instead, write clear crisp sentences that reflect the image.

Intrigue your readers

As a general rule, readers look at pictures first then the captions and back to the pictures again as they become interested and then proceed to read the story or article. A caption should intrigue readers in a way that it gives them information that they don’t otherwise know. When readers look back at the picture, they should be able to associate new ideas and facts with it. When the picture and caption is able to create an impact on readers, it will make them want to read on.

Use words to complete the picture

There are things which a picture is able to tell readers and some things which it cannot. A good caption helps to extend the basic story which the picture is trying to tell. The caption will provide the context such as dates, places, names and the significance of event, action or people within the picture. Even if the image is great but without a good caption, the effect is lost on the reader.

Capturing your readers’ attention with images and powerful words will help them to also form better memories of your content. So remember those tips to help you the next time you are writing captions for pictures!