Announcements and news conferences. They are the same thing 90 percent of the time: a person at a podium. Is it important? Sometimes. Is it visual? Almost never.

Twice last week and yesterday I had the great fortune to photograph Gov. Martin O'Malley as he made pronouncements and announcements. Are they important? Yes. Is it really necessary to repeatedly show the readers O'Malley at a podium for the umpteenth time? I'd have to say no.

This idea is formulated after discussing this issue with some of the most respected people in the industry. But I have a job to do, and I must try to give an interesting visual expression of the event. To find the not-so-obvious, unconventional view charged with impact.

(Nikon D2X, Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8 @ 165mm, 1/350th @ f/4, ISO 250)

The sign gives an institutional look to the image. The varied windows in differing conditions show disrepair. The people behind the door give evidence something his happening in front of them, outside, hinted at by the out-of-focus, yet recognizable, O'Malley.

This image comes from the presser announcing the planned closing of the Rosewood Center. It is an institution, established in 1888, for the disabled.

The photograph says a lot more than the more literal view of the proceedings.

  (Nikon D2X, Tokina 12-24mm f/4 @ 12mm, 1/160th @ f/5, ISO 200)

The more expressive image draws the reader in, keeps them interested and forces more concentration. It can entice a more curious response and cause pause. This makes the viewer more likely to read the story.