Visual storytelling; How one photographer gets the right image and tone

by Sarahbeth Maney
ProPublica

Last month, reporter Anna Clark and I hosted an in-person photo gallery and group discussion about what motivated us to tell stories of Flint, Michigan, residents 10 years after the start of the water crisis and to talk about how we work to understand the communities we serve. As a visual fellow at ProPublica, I’m focused on documenting the lives of people in our stories through photography. Throughout history, photography has been a powerful tool for recording moments in time, providing visual evidence and evoking emotions that urge us to understand experiences outside of our own. Here are suggestions for aspiring visual storytellers who may find themselves in similar situations.

Ask “Why Does This Story Need to be Told?”

Anna and I previously worked in Flint in different capacities: I interned as a photojournalist at the Flint Journal; Anna wrote a book, “The Poisoned City: Flint’s Water and the American Urban Tragedy.” To us, Flint is not just a news story, it’s a complex place full of real people who have been and continue to be denied adequate resources and support. We wanted the public to know that generations of Flint residents still live with physical and psychological challenges. By sharing what Flint residents think accountability would look like, we were able to show how many feel betrayed by the failure to hold anyone criminally responsible. They also remain frustrated by how long it’s taking to fix the local water system and the lingering mental wounds that may never be repaired.

The photo essay gave a glimpse into the experience of three residents and how their present-day concerns, fears and decisions are shaped by the water crisis. Over about four months, I made frequent visits to Flint — stopping by nonprofits, churches, after-school programs and other places that are part of everyday life. I spoke with incredibly kind people. Some wanted to help me; others were hesitant, usually because they wanted to move on or felt things would never change. Robert McCathern, Teagan Medlin and Jacquinne Reynolds granted me a great deal of trust. They were able to open up and make themselves vulnerable because of their commitment to cultivating change for future generations. I tried to represent that through the environment in the photographs.

Be Sincere With Your Approach

During the discussion at the visual storytelling event at Totem Books in Flint, we asked residents to ponder what type of stories resonate with them most, what questions they wish someone would ask them and who is one person they would like to interview. We discovered a common thread of wanting to feel more connected as neighbors and fellow human beings.

Then we flipped the exercise to challenge ourselves as journalists and receive questions from residents. “Why Flint?” one participant asked us. We told her how we’d come to admire the community and wanted to present a multidimensional view of it to readers. “Something about this place seems to get in people’s blood,” the participant told us, and it does seem that for a city of its size, Flint has attracted a disproportionate number of storytellers — even before the water crisis. And yet, some residents still wonder: What has changed? Over the past decade, Flint residents have been in the public eye not by choice, but as a result of a disaster created and prolonged by public officials. So what does that mean for us and our responsibility as storytellers?

Being in the business of transparency requires us to also be transparent with the communities we document. Without transparency, it’s hard to build mutual trust, especially in communities that have faced betrayal and have had little control over how their stories are shared with the world.

During the early stages of the project, before lifting my camera to make any photos, I listened to Flint residents and learned about their stories, then let what they told me naturally guide the photos I made. Early on, I also stressed that I believe their stories are important to share because people outside of Flint should know that for many Flint residents, the crisis is still not over.

I also should note that our stories go through many layers of revisions and fact-checking. From beginning to end, I tried to communicate how the project was developing and made sure that our sources were aware of how the story would be framed, how they would be portrayed and how they would be quoted. Once the story was published, I followed up to gauge how they were feeling, and later made them aware that photographs of them would appear at our galley in Flint.

Look for Connection and Insight

The beauty of visual storytelling is that the story can always change shape. Let go of any assumptions and let the story lead you where it may. Anna and I learned so much by taking this approach.

We found that, after a decade, many residents are still waiting for the change they want to see. The flood of the resources and attention Flint initially received has dwindled. But one of the reasons I wanted to revisit this story is because of the people I’ve met and will continue to meet. The city has introduced me to people who care deeply about their community and embrace one another with generosity, care and compassion. And I learned about a host of local programs, from the Flint Rx Kids program that provides financial support for mothers to the McKenzie Patrice Croom Flint Community Water Lab, which trains youth to give back and provides free water testing. Although communities like Flint shouldn’t need to be resilient, we can learn from their empathy, advocacy and support for one another during hard times. My job is to make photographs, but a big part of the fulfillment I get is from making connections.

We closed out our event in Flint by making photographs of attendees that they could have as keepsakes. One woman, who told me she had recently been displaced from her home, said she was going to email the photos of herself to her grandchildren who live in another state. It reminded me that photographs are invaluable in many facets of our lives. They keep us connected.


Series: A Closer Look:Examining the News
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Sarahbeth Maney is ProPublica’s first Diamonstein-Spielvogel Visual Journalism Fellow, focused on documenting in-depth investigative stories through photography.


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Keywords: Photojournalism, Visual Storytelling, Telling stories through pictures, More than taking pictures, Documenting history

Moving in: How to build connections in your new community

SNS - Moving to a new city can be an exciting adventure, but it often comes with the challenge of knowing how to build community connections. Establishing these connections is crucial for creating a sense of belonging and developing a supportive network in your new environment.

When you feel connected to your community, you’re more likely to feel at home and less isolated. Building relationships with neighbors, joining local groups, and participating in community events can significantly enhance your experience in a new city. These connections provide emotional support, practical help, and opportunities to engage in social activities, all contributing to your overall well-being and happiness.


Once you’ve settled in, attending local events is a fantastic way to build connections in your new city.

Whether it’s finding a friendly face to share a cup of coffee with or someone to rely on in times of need, the benefits of fostering community connections are immense. Here are practical steps to help you quickly and effectively build these essential ties in your new city.

Ease Your Move In and Engage with the Community
Navigating the challenges of relocating to a new city involves more than just unpacking boxes. It's also about settling into a new life. One of the first hurdles many face is the logistical and emotional strain of the move itself. Companies like A2B Moving and Storage DC specializes in helping individuals and families transition smoothly to their new homes. With a comprehensive range of services, including packing, transportation, and storage solutions, they alleviate much of the stress associated with moving. By handling the physical aspects of the move, expert movers free you up to focus more on integrating into your new community and less on the details of the move itself. Hiring a professional mover ensures that your belongings are safely and efficiently relocated, allowing you to build those new community connections with peace of mind.

Build Community Connections: Join Local Groups and Organizations
After you unpack and settle into your new home, joining local groups and organizations can be a great way to build community connections. You can join various groups depending on your interests and hobbies. Hobby clubs, such as book clubs, gardening groups, or cooking classes, offer a chance to meet people with similar passions. Sports teams and fitness classes, like soccer leagues, running clubs, or yoga sessions, provide opportunities to stay active while socializing. Volunteer organizations are another excellent option, allowing you to contribute to the community while connecting with like-minded individuals.

Finding and joining these groups can be straightforward, with a few practical tips. Start by checking community bulletin boards at local libraries, coffee shops, and community centers for flyers and announcements. Online platforms like Meetup, Facebook, and local community websites are valuable resources for discovering local groups. Attend local events and ask residents about groups they are part of. Don’t hesitate to contact organizations or group leaders to express your interest. You'll quickly become a part of the community by actively seeking out and participating in these groups.

Attend Community Events
Once you’ve settled in, attending local events is a fantastic way to build connections in your new city. These events, such as festivals, markets, and town meetings, are crucial in fostering a sense of community. They provide opportunities to meet new people, learn about local culture, and discover community resources. Whether you’re interested in art fairs, music festivals, or local farmers' markets, there’s always something happening that can help you feel more integrated into your new surroundings. Town meetings are especially valuable as they offer insights into local issues and allow you to voice your opinions and participate in decision-making.

Booth at Crystal Lake Art Fair in August

Shoppers try on jewelry at the Red Ember Forge booth at the Crystal Lake Park Art Fair on August 3. There are always events in a community that can help newcomers meet new people and start networking with residents with similar interests. Art fairs and community festivals are great places to make new friends.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Finding information about upcoming events can be simple with a few strategies:

  • Community Bulletin Boards: Check bulletin boards at local libraries, coffee shops, and community centers.
  • Local Newspapers: Browse the events section in local newspapers or online editions.
  • Social Media: Follow local community groups, pages, and event listings on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
  • City Websites: Visit the official city or town website for a calendar of events and activities.
  • Word of Mouth: Talk to neighbors and new acquaintances about events they recommend.
  • Regularly attending these events, you stay informed and find countless opportunities to meet people who might share your interests, such as gardening tips or home renovation ideas, enhancing your sense of belonging in the community.

Utilize Social Media and Online Platforms
Social media and online platforms play a significant role in helping newcomers connect with community members in a new city. These tools make finding local groups, events, and activities that match your interests easier. Platforms like Facebook have numerous community groups where residents share news, recommendations, and social gatherings. Joining these groups can provide insights into local culture and events, helping you feel more at home.

Flamenco dancer teaches workshop

Dancers learn the art of Flamenco during a workshop at Lincoln Square Mall in Urbana in March 2023. Finding groups that match your social interest is relatively easy, thanks largely to groups posting activities on social media.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Nextdoor is another valuable platform specifically designed for neighborhood connections. It allows you to communicate with nearby residents, share resources, and stay updated on local happenings. Meetup is ideal for finding social groups and activities based on your hobbies and interests, whether a book club, hiking group, or a professional network.

Engage with Neighbors
Building relationships with your neighbors can greatly enhance your sense of belonging after moving to a new city. Engaging with the people who live around you not only creates a friendly atmosphere but also establishes a support network. Here are some effective strategies and activities to help you connect with your neighbors.

Initiating Conversations
Starting a conversation with neighbors can be as simple as a friendly greeting. Introduce yourself when you see them outside or during casual encounters in common areas. Ask about local recommendations, such as good restaurants or parks, to show interest in their opinions. Sharing small favors, like offering help with carrying groceries or lending a tool, can break the ice and open up further dialogue. Hosting a casual get-together at your home, like a coffee morning or a barbecue, provides a relaxed setting for more in-depth conversations.

Friends playing mixed doubles tennis
Participating in recreational sports groups is a great way to have fun and meet new people.
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Neighborhood Activities
Participating in neighborhood activities is a great way to foster connections. Block parties are an excellent opportunity to meet multiple neighbors in a festive environment. You can suggest organizing one or join if there's already a plan. Local gatherings, such as community clean-ups or holiday celebrations, also unite neighbors. Joining or forming a neighborhood watch group can build camaraderie and contribute to the safety of your area.

Participate in Local Initiatives
Getting involved in community projects and initiatives can significantly impact your sense of connection in a new city. These activities allow you to contribute positively to your surroundings and help build stronger ties with residents. For example, participating in local beautification projects, such as park clean-ups or tree planting, can bring you together with neighbors who share a common goal.

Volunteering at community centers or local schools provides opportunities to meet people and make meaningful contributions. Joining neighborhood safety initiatives, like a watch group, promotes a safer environment and fosters trust among residents. These efforts can lead to lasting friendships and a deeper sense of community. Much like creating cozy spaces in your home, participating in local initiatives helps you feel more settled and integrated, making your new city feel like home.

The Importance of Building Community Connections
Knowing how to build community connections in a new city is essential for creating a sense of belonging and developing a supportive network. Engaging with neighbors, joining local groups, attending community events, utilizing social media, and participating in local initiatives can significantly enhance your experience and make your new city feel like home. These connections provide emotional support, practical help, and opportunities for social interaction, contributing to your overall well-being and happiness. Don’t hesitate to take the first step – introduce yourself to a neighbor, attend a local event, or join a community project.


100 participate at MLK Walk for Peace in Urbana

MLK Day
Just over one hundred people joined together to walk from Crestwood Park to Larson Park in Urbana for the MLK Walk of Peace on Monday. The event, commemorating the life and sacrifice of the Reverend Martin Luther King, was co-sponsored by the City of Urbana, HV Neighborhood Transformation, Housing Authority of Champaign County/Youth Build, The Urbana Free Library, the Urbana Park District, and the Urbana Rotary Club. "We know the sacrifices he and countless others made for the betterment of us as African-Americans and society itself," said Maurice Hayes, Executive Director of HV Neighborhood Transformations. "So often, our kids are misled by the wrong things. It will take us as adults in the room to lead them in a different direction to prosperity and to grow success."
Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

SJO senior organizing a holiday parade for Dec. 19

After taking part in the Sidney's Parade of Lights on December 5, Audrey Short thought it would be nice to have one closer to home in St. Joseph.

Mourning the loss of her classmate Nadiriah Edwards, who died from her injuries sustained in a tragic traffic accident north of the village days earlier, the St. Joseph-Ogden senior, like many others in the community, wanted to help the Edwards family. What better way to put the fun in fundraising than to have a St. Joseph parade with decorated golf carts, floats and vehicles making its way through town. Short posed the question on a Facebook, asking for a $5 donation that would go to the Edwards.

The response to inquiry was overwhelming enthusiastic and it didn't take long for Short's idea grow. Within hours the event planned for the December 19th had an impressive level of support from members of the Facebook group.

"The responses have been phenomenal! I love seeing how many people want to be involved in an event that has been planned with such short notice," Short said. "I’m ready for it to be December 19th! I’m so excited to see how everyone will decorate!

"I hope everyone has a good time," she added.

The parade route will start at the Middle School and entries can start lining up at 4:30pm for the 5:30 start.

"Get there early if you want to be in the front," Short said. "We will start rolling out at 5:30pm. Don’t forget your minimum entry fee of $5, there will be someone collecting it as you leave the middle school. We will also have two different vehicles collecting donations from others that are watching the parade"

The parade travel to Main Street and head north to Grand Avenue. Turning east, the procession will head to the St. Joseph Community Park. Short said she can be contacted by text or via messenger on Facebook if any one has any questions.

Organizing an event like this is a pretty impressive undertaking for a high school student. Short hopes the donations collected from participant entries and spectators along the route will help Nadiriah's family through the difficult days and months ahead.

"I didn’t know her that well but I had gone to school with her my entire life," said Short, who has committed to play softball at Spoon River College next fall. "We had multiple classes together and had been partners for various projects. She was such a sweet person to be around."

Flashback Friday: Win clinches 19th consecutive playoff appearance

Jack Bock carries the ball for the Spartans
This #Flashback Friday goes back to the 2009 football season. The explosive Jake Bock is slowed down by a Carlyle tackler during the Spartans' home game on October 17. The St. Joseph-Ogden football team posted their 6th win of the season after a impressive 41-7 win over the visiting Indians. The victory clinched the program's 19th consecutive IHSA playoff appearance. Bock ran for 165 rushing yards and tallied two touchdowns for SJO. Click here to see all 41 photos from that game a decade ago. (Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)

Cody Bohlen kicks PAT
Left: Cody Bohlen kicks an extra point for the Spartans. The win was extra special and dedicated to the wife of athletic trainer Casey Hug who recently underwent surgery for breast cancer. Players' helmets bore pink ribbons while many had pink shoe laces. Coaches and staff wore pink shirts and hats to show their support. Donations taken at the gate and proceeds from the 50/50 drawing were earmarked to help cover treatment costs. Right: Bock takes a hand off from Blake Hoveln during first quarter action. (Photos: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)

Huge catch by Dakota Hicks
Receiver Dakota Hicks leaps for a catch on the two yard line. The senior then stretched over the goal line to pile on another six points in the Spartans' rout over Carlyle that year. The Spartans went on to finish the season, 8-3. Click here to see all 41 photos from that game a decade ago. (Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)


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Oswego runner Kelly Allen
Kelly Allen lets out a roar while running in the half marathon course on Washington Ave in Urbana. Allen, hailing from Oswego, NY, finished the course at 2:33:30, good for 46th out of 75 runners in the women's 45-49 age group on Saturday. See more photos from the 2024 Illinois Marathon here.

Photos: Sentinel/Clark Brooks