It’s probably true that most people don’t get excited about annual reports. But they can be exciting, especially when they are telling a real story - and great photography is one of the best ways to deliver that message.

Whether you’re wrapping up a big year or sharing your organization’s long-term impact, your visuals can do more than just “fill space” between the numbers. Here’s how to make your annual report photography feel intentional, human, and story-driven.

This year, one of my long-time clients, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), is celebrating their 125th anniversary. This year-long celebration of course includes many events and awards, but also features several issues of their alumni magazine dedicated to honoring PCOM’s past, present, and future.

Annual reports are essential tools for highlighting key achievements, financial data, and strategic plans within an organization. While the data is important, the numbers only tell part of the story. To fully engage readers and showcase your organization’s mission, using professional photography is a game changer. High-quality visuals help create emotional connections, boost credibility, and ensure that your report resonates with stakeholders, clients and potential customers.

As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on all the interesting jobs and people I’ve gotten to work with this year. 2023 has been a unique journey – one filled with incredible opportunities, challenges, and growth. As a professional photographer, I have been fortunate to work with a diverse array of businesses and universities, each with its own distinct story to tell.

If you are involved in the business side of things for any sort of big business, non profit, or educational institution, then annual reports are nothing new to you. The yearly publication — whether produced in digital or print (or both!) — is a showcase of your institution.