Times in our towns

features of the year A feature photo introduces readers to the subject of a story and provides the visual backdrop for the narrative.

The feature picture is difficult for photographers because, like much photojournalism, there isn’t much time for planning. On the way from one assignment to another with a tight schedule, a picturesque moment may unfold in front of the photographer. He or she has to stop everything -- often the car -- and capture the shot. Other times, the photo goes with a story, and it’s unclear how visual the event will be. The photographer has to plan for anything and come away with gold.