Visual Storytelling:
The Art of the Photo Essay
with Charles Rex Arbogast (Associated Press, Chicago, USA)
Overview
A compelling photo essay, like a well-written narrative, follows a structured progression with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
This course will introduce participants to the fundamentals of visual storytelling through photography, equipping them with the skills needed to create impactful photo essays. Whether working individually or in teams, students will focus on key photographic elements explored during the initial discussion phase.
Field Experience
Participants will engage in supervised, hands-on practice at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, applying the principles covered in class while receiving real-time feedback and guidance.
Course Theme: “A Day in the Life”
Participants will document a chosen subject througha combination of:
- Portraits – Capturing individuals in their environment.
- Environmental Scenes – Depicting people interacting within a space.
- Detail Shots – Highlighting key visual elements that contribute to the story.
Beyond technical skills, the course will emphasize:
- Researching and understanding the location.
- Engaging meaningfully with subjects.
- Identifying and utilizing quality natural and artificial lighting.
Course Structure (2 Days)
- Day 1 - Discussion & Theory
- Time - 3 PM to 6 PM
- What to expect - Introduction to visual storytelling, composition, lighting, and narrative structure.
- Day 2 - Fieldwork, Presentation and Critique
- Time - 9 AM to 12 PM and 3 PM to 6 PM
- What to expect - Practical application with guided instruction at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Analysis and feedback session, with the possibility of an evening presentation for a wider audience
This course will provide participants with a strong foundation in photographic storytelling while fostering creativity, technical proficiency, and critical analysis.
Note: Participants are invited to bring their cameras or mobile phones for the Saturday photo shoot session.
About the Instructor
Charles Rex Arbogast, is a native of Columbus, Ohio where he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography & Cinema from The Ohio State University. Mr. Arbogast has worked for newspapers in South Carolina and Virginia, and more than 35 years as a staff photographer with The Associated Press in three states, New Jersey, Missouri, and Illinois. Mr. Arbogast has lectured, been a faculty member of one of the nation’s premier sports photography workshops and continues to pursue his own private photographic projects.
Mr. Arbogast’s photojournalism assignments have spanned the spectrum of photojournalism from world conflict, sports, natural disasters, everyday life, and American politics. A winner of numerous awards he and his colleagues have been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize twice for work covering presidential campaigns. In January of 2024, Mr. Arbogast welcomed his first grandchild and proceeded to document his life.