It's all in the Wording

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes just one word can paint a lasting image on your mind. A single descriptive word paired with a favorite expressive photograph can speak volumes.

Usually these one-word sentiments assume the title position on a layout and set the mood for the layout. One-word titles aren't a new concept in scrapbooking. However, picking the right word can be challenging. Here are some tips for finding the right one-word title for your favorite photos.

• Look at the subject in your photograph. What expression does the person have on their face? Curiosity, frustration, surprise, or excitement are just a few facial expressions you might find.
  


• Use words that describe the relationships shown in your photographs. Friends, siblings, teachers, and relatives are all important relationships that can be captured in photographs. Words like companion, brotherhood, mentor, and family all help to emphasize relationships.
  


• Determine what words describe the events of the photograph. Does it display chaos, peacefulness, comfort, or adventure?
  


• Use a thesaurus. Often you'll have a basic word in mind, but want to look for something a little more interesting. A thesaurus can help you eloquently portray the perfect sentiment. For example, rather than "happy", use blissful, delighted, joyous, cheerful, enchanted, thrilled, or elated.

For this layout, I've used the title "Memories" because each photo holds years of memories for the house my husband's family lived in for twenty years. While I plan to include some written stories of the memories these photos trigger in my scrapbooks, this page serves to let his family come up with their own stories and memories when they look at the photos of their childhood home.

One-word titles can be very effective and are an easy way to polish off a layout. Take some time to find that perfect word to make a statement that leaves a lasting impression.

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