5 Reasons Why You Should Submit to Magazines (And Where to Submit)
I've seen a lot of back and forth from photographers about submitting to magazines –– some think it's a great idea, and others are not so fond. As the creator of a submissions-based magazine, it may seem like I'm a little biased, but hear me out. As a creative, I believe magazine submissions can absolutely be worth your time professionally. Here's five good reasons why you should submit to magazines.
1. Create new connections and build your team.
Magazine submissions typically require the efforts of a crew to put a quality shoot together. This can include makeup artists, hair stylists, wardrobe stylists, models, and can expand so far as nail artists, prop stylists, set designers. Creating editorials for submission allows you to explore relationships with different creatives and figure out who you share a good vibe with. As you meet more people and develop these relationships, you can start to put together teams of your favorite people to work with; the ones who you know you can get the shot with.
2. Establishing credibility.
Many established artists once started with magazine submissions. They built their portfolios with magazine spreads and editorial credits. Who would you rather hire – the photographer whose work has been proven successful through the acceptance of several publications, or the photographer without that credibility? Submissions are a great way to establish yourself on a smaller scale to bring your career to the next level.
3. Network with editors.
For a lot of independent magazine editors, their magazine is not their full-time job. They are often involved in other facets of the industry. If you develop a positive relationship with an independent magazine editor through consistent, high quality work, who knows where their next career move might take you?
4. Get your work exposed.
No one likes to be paid in "exposure". Sometimes, however, exposure is one of the most valuable pieces of the puzzle to land your next big gig. The combined social followings of many magazines can be a huge advantage and can lead anywhere from gaining followers to enticing your next client.
5. Be a part of something wonderful.
If you're considering submitting to magazines, you're a creative. What creative doesn't want to be a part of something that is truly wonderful? Seeing your work laid out in the a magazine spread –– whether it's print or digital –– can be so inspiring for a creative. Flip through and find yourself amongst dozens of other talented creatives. Be a part of something great.
Ready to submit? Stay tuned for my do's and don'ts of magazine submissions, coming soon. For now, you can review Atlas Magazine's submissions guidelines and check out this list of some of my favorite submissions-based magazines below.