Definition & Meaning of "photo-essay"

What is a "photographic essay"?

A photographic essay, also known as a photo-essay, is a series of photographs that work together to tell a story or explore a particular theme or subject in depth. Unlike a single photograph, which captures just one moment, a photographic essay provides a more comprehensive view through multiple images. Each photo adds to the overall narrative by offering different perspectives, details, and contexts, and is often accompanied by captions or brief texts. Photographic essays are commonly used in journalism, art, and personal projects to convey complex ideas or tell compelling stories through visual means.