A hidden story.
Images can tell a strong nature story and this can be a powerful Ingredient.
The images that tell a nature story without requiring an explanation are probably best but they can also be rather gruesome.
The poor ladybug in this image seems to be the center of unwanted attention by the cyanobacteria. Is this ladybug the victim of microcystin poisoning? Has this cyanobacteria strain turned carnivorous?
Nature stories like this one, with stories that are cryptic, are not as strong in appeal. Most viewers prefer to know what’s going on even though in many cases it is a less flattering picture of Mother Nature.