Abstract

This article investigates the caption as a distinct compositional element in British and American media, tracing its definitions, etymology and divergent practices. Drawing on professional guidance, comparative terminology (caption/cutline), and cross‑cultural examples (including Georgian usage), the study demonstrates how captions can operate as titles, descriptions or compact photo‑essays. It examines why captions remain understudied – chiefly because they are often authored by subeditors and eclipsed by headline research – and considers contemporary shifts in photojournalism driven by technology and market differences between the UK and continental Europe. By combining conceptual analysis with practical guidance from practitioners, the article argues for recognising captions as independent, narratively significant elements within multimedia journalism.