Kuvasarja

Kuvasarja is a form of visual storytelling that uses a sequence of images to convey a narrative, document a process, or illustrate a situation. In Finnish media and photography, the term refers to a cohesive set of photographs or images arranged in a logical order to guide the viewer through the story. The sequence can be short or long and is typically accompanied by captions and, in journalistic contexts, a brief text providing context, time, place, and key participants.

The purpose of a kuvasarja is to build meaning through progression. The order and framing highlight changes, developments, or cause-and-effect relationships that a single image might not fully capture. Each frame supports the overall narrative, while captions explain essential details and may identify people, locations, and moments. An introductory note or concluding element may frame the narrative or offer a takeaway.

Contexts and formats: Kuvasarjoja are commonly published in newspapers, magazines, books, and online platforms. They can present documentary topics, events, or everyday activities, and may be shown as grids, strips, or slideshows. In online media, they are often integrated into galleries or carousels, sometimes with interactive features.

Ethics and practice: Effective kuvasarja relies on accurate sequencing and honest representation. While storytelling may emphasize certain aspects, it should avoid misleading rearrangements or manipulations. The format is distinct from comics (sarjakuva) and is closely related to the photo essay and documentary photography in its aim to communicate through images.