It can jog memories or raise questions. It can be beautiful. It can convey authority. Most often, it informs. And, it can surprise.
Nothing is more important than the trust of photographers.
Since they are not employees, but freelancers, photographers often operate from a disadvantaged position. No one else will be. Smooth the way for the photographer. Make certain that the proper research has been done before an assignment and that there is actually something to photograph. Often, something that sounds intelligent doesn't look good in photographs.