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how to get your photos published: tips 41–50

22/12/2014

 
As a wildlife photographer, you probably dream of seeing your name on a multi-page photo story in a glossy magazine, but it's not always easy to get your work published. I've compiled 76 top tips to help you improve your chances. Here are the next 10...
Tip 41: Ask intelligent questions. Inquire about the mag's future photo needs and the suitability of any projects you are working on.

Tip 42: Be aware. Editors are always up against a deadline and don’t have a lot of time. It’s your job to make their job easier for them.

Tip 43: Give advance warning. Tell your chosen editor about anything big you are working on that you think they might be interested in, especially if you know they like your work.


Tip 44:
Phone calls aren’t always the best way to promote your photos – every editor's time is tight. And never ever pitch via social media!

Tip 45: Less is more. Email the editor about 10–15 of your best images that showcase the quality and variety of your work.

Tip 46: Choose wisely. When pitching, concentrate on the pictures that are best-suited to the mag, its readers and your story idea.
Don't just send everything you've got.

Tip 47: Target a section. Show you are familiar with the mag and have considered its needs by specifying which section you are targeting.

Tip 48: Think ahead. Many mags are “long-lead” which means that they work several months – or even years – ahead, so pitch early.

Tip 49: Keep it brief. Anything longer than a few hundred words will have the editor flicking to the next email (or making tea).


Tip 50: Be honest. If you've manipulated your images or used live bait, highlight this to the editor so they can make an informed decision about whether they want to use them.

There are still plenty more tips to come next week. Now you've pitched your story, it's time to impress with your professionalism and build long-term editorial relationships.

HOW TO GET YOUR PHOTOS PUBLISHED: 31–40

4/12/2014

 
As a wildlife photographer, you probably dream of seeing your name on a multi-page photo story in a glossy magazine, but it's not always easy to get your work published. I've compiled 76 top tips to help you improve your chances. Here are the next 10...
Tip 31: Be interesting. What every magazine wants is to sell more copies, so ask yourself how your photos can help them do that.

Tip 32: Build relationships with key editorial contacts. Getting published can be all about who you know.

Tip 33: Tailor your story. Don’t assume that one size fits all. Adapt your story angle to the readership and priorities of the magazine.


Tip 34: Getting published is not just about photos; patience, persistence and a willingness to study the magazine's needs are what count. 

Tip 35: Ask your friends. Ask other photographers if they have had success pitching to that mag before and, if so, how they approached them.

Tip 36: Get personal. Putting a face to a name can make the difference between getting an answer to your photography pitch – or not.

Tip 37: Introduce yourself. If the magazine is based in another country, you may need to build your relationships remotely. There's never a good time to phone – email is best!


Tip 38: Avoid the hard sell. Ask if the editor minds you sending over a few shots/ideas every so often and what format they prefer.


Tip 39: Stay in touch. Once or twice a year, send your stand-out shots with a friendly message. People do business with people they like.


Tip 40:
Meet up. Identify key contacts on the publications you wish to target and arrange to meet them at the next big photography event.

There are still plenty more tips to come next week. Now you have made a good first impression on your target magazine, it's time to sell them your story.

    Author

    Editor of various wildlife mags for almost 20 years and judge of most of the biggest wildlife photo comps.

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