Learn the Art of Visual Storytelling with John Lehmann

There is more than one way to tell a story.

For John Lehmann, award-winning photojournalist for The Globe and Mail, photography presents opportunities that just aren't available with the written word. "For me, visual storytelling is about sharing with the viewer a story they normally wouldn't get to see or understand, and provide insight," he says.

Take this photo essay about professional wrestlers Lehmann published in The Globe.

In a series of diptychs, we see photos of the wrestlers in their full fighting kits next to photos of them out of costume, in their day jobs. The contrast highlights the theatricality of the wrestling world, and situates the performers in the realm of the mundane.

"I loved the duality of the wrestlers' lives, and that's what really drove me to tell their stories," Lehmann says.

Lehmann's work has appeared in many publications and taken him all over the world, including to five Olympic Games and the Boxing Day tsunami in Southeast Asia. He's captured polar bears in Canada's north, and accepted months-long assignments in China and Russia.

On Saturday, Nov. 21, Lehmann will be sharing his documentary photography skills in a day-long Tyee Master Class, where participants will learn how to develop their own visual storytelling style through content, composition, and creativity -- "the most important elements of any image," Lehmann says.

The class is intended for those who already understand the fundamentals of photography and are looking to further develop their storytelling technique.

In the first half, Lehmann will share his philosophy on photojournalism and the art of visual storytelling today.

"As with most people in journalism, I now need to keep abreast on the latest technology and how to incorporate it into my storytelling," Lehmann says. "Social media has become a main tool for finding stories and driving viewers to these stories."

The second half of the class will delve into the dark art of editing. Participants will take part in an editing exercise, whittling down scores of images to tell a comprehensive visual story that will appeal to a viewer.

It all takes place in the beautiful Post at 750 studios in downtown Vancouver, and includes coffee, lunch, and a reception with a splash of beer. What better way to unwind after a great class?

Don't miss the chance to hone your documentary photography skills in a Tyee Master Class on Nov. 21. Seats are still available. Register here.

In the meantime, follow John Lehmann's latest work on Instagram.