Caption (text)

A caption is a brief explanation or title accompanying an illustration, photograph, cartoon, or other visual media. Its primary function is to provide context, describe the visual, identify subjects depicted, or otherwise enhance the viewer's understanding of the image.

Captions are typically placed directly above, below, or beside the image they describe, with a clear visual connection established. They can range in length from a few words to several sentences, depending on the complexity of the image and the desired level of detail.

Effective captions are concise, informative, and accurate. They should avoid stating the obvious, instead focusing on providing new information or insights that might not be immediately apparent from the image alone. They should also be written in a clear and engaging style to draw the reader's attention.

Captions are crucial for accessibility, allowing individuals with visual impairments to understand the content of images through screen readers or alternative text descriptions. They also play a vital role in ensuring that images are properly understood and interpreted, particularly in contexts where the meaning might be ambiguous or open to interpretation. In journalism, captions often adhere to strict factual standards and attribution requirements.