The first in a series about the art of storytelling in album design. Every day at Queensberry we create books and albums about wedding days, birthdays and family celebrations. Years of looking at all those photos have convinced us that storytelling is an important part of the design process. It really will help a book stand head and shoulders above others that simply have a bunch of people looking awkwardly at the camera and smiling - no matter how good the individual photos may be! So what is it about a good story that captivates your attention, takes you on a journey, and gives you a sense of connection? Is there a formula? Is it something intangible? Is it the coming together of all the right ingredients at the right time that creates something amazing? I believe that (like most things) mastering the art of storytelling is 10% talent and 90% practice! I also believe that mastering a few basic principles will have you well on the way to success. Here are two thoughts to get started. 1. Those automated programs that lay out your pages in just a minute or two don't design albums, they just spray paint them. Zero time expended, yes, but zero value added. Yes, you can do that in Photojunction too, but we don't spend a lot of time persuading you it's a good idea! 2. Getting to know the people in your viewfinder (not just the main characters, but the supporting cast, and how they interact) makes it a lot easier to tell a story about them. That's two things the shoot 'em and forget 'em school of professional photography can't be bothered with! But take the trouble and you'll be adding real value for your client, and in due course your bottom line. Next: Chronology creates flow. Anna