Is a Picture Really Worth a Thousand Words?

That’s a good question especially coming from someone who makes a living with words.

Back when I was in the journalism program at the Cronkite School at ASU, we were asked to select one of three disciplines – editorial, public relations or photography. I didn’t fancy myself a hard-hitting news reporter and most of my pictures turned out blurry or off-center, so public relations was the winner. It has worked out pretty well, I’d say.

However, time and time again throughout my career, I’ve been tasked with making sure there are photos to accompany a project.  Whether hiring a professional photographer or taking one with my smartphone, having images to go with my words has been a constant.

But has it been a strategic decision? Should it be?

My answer to these questions is sometimes and definitely.

And according to Paul Bowers it should always be part of your communications strategy.

We talked about the power of visual storytelling and how to use images and video to further the messages you are sharing on this week’s Copper State of Mind.

Paul shares his insights on the relationship between the creative process and the communications strategy and lets us in on his “secret sauce” for getting the best out of your subjects at a photo or video shoot.