The story of a single picture

Invite participants to uncover personal memories, foster connections, and enhance creativity by crafting short stories inspired by photos.

Duration: 80 minutes for 10 participants. 10 minutes for introduction, 10 minutes for selecting a photo and reflection, 20 minutes for story preparation, 3 minutes per person for presentation.

Difficulty level: 3/5

Preparation

• Smartphones or digital devices with access to personal photos.

• Access to free stock photos

• A quiet, comfortable space to reflect and share

• A screen or projector to present photos

Introduction

• Setting the Context: Inform participants beforehand to select a meaningful or memorable photo from their phone gallery—one that holds a personal story or significant meaning for them— or from stock photos—one that evokes their emotions. Encourage them to approach the task with creativity and authenticity.

• Guiding Reflection: Suggest that participants view their photo not merely as an image but as part of a larger narrative:

• A scene in a story.

• A metaphor for something meaningful.

• A moment in time that invites expansion.

• Encourage them to focus on emotions, perspectives, sensory details, or unnoticed elements within the picture.

• Ask participants to take a few moments to browse their photo gallery or free stock photos. and choose an image that resonates with them—whether it represents joy, adventure, family, something symbolic, or simply evokes a strong personal connection. If they struggle to choose, suggest focusing on the emotions tied to the images they browse.

• To deepen their engagement, encourage participants to reflect on different angles of their photo. Use the following prompts to inspire creativity:

  • How would a stranger interpret this photo?

  • What might this image symbolize in your life’s journey?

  • What would the people in the photo say about it? How might they describe the story?

  • What other emotions or thoughts does this photo evoke that aren’t immediately visible?

  • How does this photo connect with moments from your past or aspirations for the future?

  • Are there elements missing from the photo? What would you add to complete the story?

• Once everyone has selected a photo, provide time for participants to craft a short story based on their chosen image. 

  • It can be either a true or fictional story, but it is suggested that it should relate to the feeling the picture evokes.

  • The story should be concise, designed to be shared in about 3 minutes.

  • Encourage participants to weave in sensory details, emotional reflections, or imaginative elements that enhance the depth of their narrative.

• Technical preparation: Connect a large monitor or projector, and ask participants to send or provide their chosen photos.

• Sharing: Invite participants to share their stories with the group, presenting their pictures on a screen if possible.

  • They can either display the photo while sharing the story or describe it if they prefer not to show it.

  • Emphasize the importance of active listening and creating a supportive environment where all personal narratives are respected and valued.

Wrap-up

Conclude the activity by guiding a group reflection. Use the following questions to encourage introspection and discussion:

• How did the photo inspire your story?

• Did it bring up any unexpected memories or emotions?

• How did sharing your personal story feel?

• Did the exercise change your perspective on the picture you selected?

• Were there any new insights or connections you discovered about yourself or others?