A series about storytelling in album design. Every great story has a beginning, a middle and an end Part of what makes a story interesting is the way it's told. It pulls you in, leads you along a path of discovery and ends with a satisfying finale. I've already mentioned the importance of chronology, and I'll have more about the middle later, but what's the secret to a strong beginning and a satisfying ending? The beginning Writers spend a lot of time on their first paragraphs. They know if they don't kindle your interest they leave you cold. If you're not sure what should go on your first page here are a few ideas. • Use one of the best shots from the formal portrait shoot. This works well as a dramatic introduction to the heroes of your story. • A detail shot, or series of shots (bride's dress, flowers, shoes, wedding stationery, rings etc) works to introduce the theme or style of the story without giving too much away. So does a photo of the setting, especially if it's somewhere particularly special. How about dawn breaking over the reef on the day of your Fiji destination wedding? If it’s a series of shots I'd use white space and keep the images small and intimate, just enough to spark interest in your viewers. • Our translucent titles make a soft and elegant introduction, and are a classic feature of any book. They let you know who, what and when, and you can get a lovely effect by partially revealing a photo underneath. The end A strong ending can be a problem. You may well have started the album with a "hero shot" that's not in chronological order, but it's best to finish with a great shot from the end of the event. But that isn't always easy, especially if you haven't been hired for the whole event. I believe a strong ending requires a little planning (on your own and your clients' part - the bride and groom). This is a case of shooting for the album with the end result in mind. Here are some ideas: • The bride and groom's first dance, or them on the dance floor with guests (a no-brainer really!) • B&G leaving the reception. This can work really well if the B&G have planned a nice leaving event, like a tunnel of guests holding sparklers. Maybe even suggest that they do plan something fun to end the night with. The thought never crossed my mind when planning my wedding, but I wish I'd organized something a little special. • B&G leaving in car. Why not hop in the car with them for a second so you can get a better shot from the front seat? • Shot of the reception venue at night. This can work well as a nice 'step back' reflective kind of ending, especially with the guests inside, or if the building is particularly beautiful and well lit. Next: Highlighting the heroes