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Magazine Professionals
For all of us working in the field of magazines - publishers, editors, art directors, designers, sales and marketing, distro and fulfillment - whatever it is. Time to have meaningful conversations about the direction of this medium and business model.
Also - if you're just interested in magazine publishing, etc - please join. Having outside-the-profession debate can be good since most all of us consume this medium or have at some point.
Network Leader: Smith+Fritzy
samantha reynolds
Hi I've just joined so forgive me if this question has been asked but I'd love some tips from people in the industry on how to break in to travel writing and photograhy for magazines. i write well and take great photographs and have tried to contact the editors of my local glossies to see if they are interested but it seems like they don't reply to emails! (ok it's only been a couple of weeks and i do live in Cape Town, South Africa which is not a fast paced place!) Thank you so much.
Melissa Breau
I was thinking about the role of the internet and its influence on the types of content created; I think web writing inspires two particular types of content -- immediate content and evergreen content.
People either tend to write something so news worthy and "right now" that by tomorrow it'd be obsolete (except as history) or they write something generic (how many posts are there on fav. wordpress plugins).
Thoughts?
Tony Forte
With technology changing quicker than Lady Gaga changes outfits at an awards show, it’s hard to tell what’s a fad and what’s here to stay. QR Code is here to stay and you might want to be in the know. Read here for more on this tech phenomenon: http://www.urbanprofessor.com/2011/01/18/bar-hopping-hop-on-board-the-ri...
55 weeks ago from Creatively Inspired, Magazine Professionals, Graduate Students, Interns and Personal Branding3 more
Joseph A Engle
As someone that studied magazine creation and design in school, but has never had a job in the industry (I strayed to web design almost immediately), what would you recommend doing in order to break into working on the creative end of magazine production?
Penina:
There is a lot of crossover in thinking between editorial design for print and web. If you haven't yet designed for magazine/editorial websites, ...MoreThere is a lot of crossover in thinking between editorial design for print and web. If you haven't yet designed for magazine/editorial websites, then it may be a natural first step back toward the industry.
What are your favorite magazines? Where do you want to go with this?
69 weeks ago
What are your favorite magazines? Where do you want to go with this?
69 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman
I keep telling people that AOL isn't down for the count. This article is a good briefing on why - http://bit.ly/cGEPAD - Freelance writers looking for work should hit up AOL's properties.
84 weeks ago from Hire A Freelancer, Social Media and Magazine Professionals1 more
Joy Kennelly:
Thanks for the heads up Rebecca. I write for www.patch.com which is also ...MoreThanks for the heads up Rebecca. I write for www.patch.com which is also AOL owned and I've been impressed with their editorial staff. Might be the west coast version of Seed?
84 weeks ago
84 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman:
Wow, Patch is a very niche, local play. Very smart... if they had one in my town, I'd read it over the local news site.
84 weeks ago
84 weeks ago
Khem Na'khi
What are your thoughts about an audio magazine? I produced an audio magazine a couple of years ago called WTFM? (What's The Future of Music?). Exploring the future of music, discussing the pros and cons of the music label, artist, and fan, and acknowledging independent and progressive music artists. Listen to some tracks here: www.myspace.com/khemnakhi. I would like to hear what you all think as far as an audio magazine being a new push for magazines in the future.
Anisha
I have a question. As a freelance writer, when's the best time to pitch an idea to a magazine- before or after contacting the subject? I usually pitch the idea to the magazine and see if they are interested before the I contact the subject but a few times, esp. when the subject is high profile, I've been left hanging. Just wondering, what the protocol is. Any thoughts?
TOP IDEA:
Raven Moore
Q. My organization is in the middle of launching/developing an online magazine focused on human rights and social justice work (similar to the now defunct NEED magazine). What's the best way to approach creating/developing a niche (online) magazine? Thoughts?
Sadya Siddiqui recommended this
Smith+Fritzy:
I think you're definitely right in that assessment. Realistically, distribution and format really made magazines what they are. People have wanted ...MoreI think you're definitely right in that assessment. Realistically, distribution and format really made magazines what they are. People have wanted to replicate the idea of them online, but the Internet changes both things and we just don't use the space the same way. Things are instant, things are read differently, too many formats, etc. Create a good website - then let the magazine come from it.
87 weeks ago
87 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman:
I would also add marketing and promotion. Once you have the content side set, develop strategies to acquire readers. In theory, this should be ...MoreI would also add marketing and promotion. Once you have the content side set, develop strategies to acquire readers. In theory, this should be happening at the same time.
87 weeks ago
87 weeks ago
Susan Johnston
Recently, we talked about what turns us off online ads for freelancers. I recently compiled a list of six red flags that I avoid: http://www.urbanmusewriter.com/2010/06/6-red-flags-for-writers-to-avoid-... Anyone care to weigh in?
87 weeks ago from Freelancing, Magazine Professionals and Copywriters1 more
Sunny Shakula recommended this
Jeremy Feldman:
In this business, you quickly establish a reputation. If you want to be known as the bargain basement copywriter who is willing to work for cheap, ...MoreIn this business, you quickly establish a reputation. If you want to be known as the bargain basement copywriter who is willing to work for cheap, answer those kinds of ads. If you want to be known as a consummate professional whose work is worth something, then hold out for the better paying jobs. The basic rule of thumb is not to undercut yourself. Decide what you feel is a fair rate, based on the market you're in, and stick to it. Sometimes, that means turning down work. But, you'll profit in the long run.
87 weeks ago
87 weeks ago
:
Great blog post Susan! There are so many red flags now that anyone can post for help online. Back in the old days (i.e. pre-web bonanza feeding ...MoreGreat blog post Susan! There are so many red flags now that anyone can post for help online. Back in the old days (i.e. pre-web bonanza feeding frenzy) my freelance assignments were contracted through networking,and getting to know editors with similar tastes and views. There is so much to look out for now when searching for work, and a writer has to invoke their cynical nature at all times!
84 weeks ago
84 weeks ago
Susan Johnston
I just posted an open thread on my blog about the most unusual way I've found a freelance writing gig: http://www.urbanmusewriter.com/2010/06/open-thread-hey-howd-you-get-that... Anyone else care to weigh in?
88 weeks ago from Copywriters, Freelancing and Magazine Professionals1 more
Smith+Fritzy
It's been a while people. We're in the middle of our busiest production cycle of the year, two issues at the same time with a third that starts during the last quarter of the other two's cycles. I get super - duper - stressed this time of year (as art director for smaller companies, I act as production manager, too.) I've been working nights and weekends for the past month and I've been drowning. How do you manage your deadline stress?
Smith+Fritzy:
Well, four years of trying to figure out how to make this production period work hasn't worked yet. Some things are just part of the publishing ...MoreWell, four years of trying to figure out how to make this production period work hasn't worked yet. Some things are just part of the publishing world and the capabilities of our companies. I used to work way more than this when I was younger - we used to push out 2-4 magazines a month between two of us, and worked 70-80 hours a week. So comparatively, it's not as bad because it's only one month a year, but this year it's just taken a real toll on me. I know this coming year, there's going to be a change, whether it be handing one of the magazines off to someone else... but it's just hard for me to let go of either magazine. They're my babies, you know?
92 weeks ago
92 weeks ago
EricHFriedman:
I know! That's where the "pre-trained" temps idea came from. I usually bring in anywhere from 3-5 interns, train them months before anything is in ...MoreI know! That's where the "pre-trained" temps idea came from. I usually bring in anywhere from 3-5 interns, train them months before anything is in the pipeline, make sure it's a great learning experience, and then sometimes, they agree to be hired back as freelancers for the big pushes we have. At the very least I have a LOT of contacts that are all over the place, and the satisfaction that we could have possibly helped get people their first 'break.'
92 weeks ago
92 weeks ago
julie houta
Hey everyone,
I would like to introduce you to a great international online magazine http://thepowerplayermag.com/Thepowerplayermag/Home.html. Let me know what you think! I am trying to market it abroad. Any idea?? Thanks
Smith+Fritzy
OK - not quite magazine related, but for those of us in creative fields, I enjoyed this... http://dontevenreply.com/view.php?post=87
Smith+Fritzy
How many of you keep magazines you buy? Do you throw them out when the new issue comes in or do you store them for reference later? I recently cleaned out my office and recycled a few boxes of old magazines. I still have boxes and boxes of old magazines, and it's a real inconvenience. I'm looking forward to when we actually can store all of this on an iPad or whatever... easy storage, easy cataloging, searching, article linking... this above the "futuristic looking" mags it's touting. Thoughts?
paulmacp:
I tare important articles and file them. I have started scanning and trashing lately. I hope to be all digital very soon.
100 weeks ago
100 weeks ago
Shannon Coffey:
Save the paid subscription issues, recycle the free stuff. I also have a ton of vintage stuff I'm slowly selling off. But if I could have all of ...MoreSave the paid subscription issues, recycle the free stuff. I also have a ton of vintage stuff I'm slowly selling off. But if I could have all of that digitally, with an iPad to read it on, I'd be in heaven.
I do love myself some linear page format, and searchable pdfs of that stuff will be great. But the new Wired and other Conde Nast planned iPad versions are going to rock hard.
100 weeks ago
I do love myself some linear page format, and searchable pdfs of that stuff will be great. But the new Wired and other Conde Nast planned iPad versions are going to rock hard.
100 weeks ago
Melissa Breau
Hi all - there is a great piece in forbes, interviwing Cathie Black quite arguably the most successful woman in publishing today. Check it out - she discusses the viability of print as a medium and the importance of magazines using 360 degree branding.
http://www.forbes.com/2010/02/26/cathie-black-hearst-media-forbes-woman-...
Rebecca Thorman recommended this
Rebecca Thorman:
Thanks for sharing. I'm a big fan of Cathie Black - have you read her book? I enjoyed it; her candor results in some very useful stories.
101 weeks ago
101 weeks ago
Kristina Summers
I have done layout, design and photography for school and some independent work for smaller publications, but just how do you break into a big magazine, Say National Geographic? Any tips?
Smith+Fritzy:
For Design: This is another tricky one. It's sort of the opposite of the photography. You can't come in with ideas or stories and sell them. It is ...MoreFor Design: This is another tricky one. It's sort of the opposite of the photography. You can't come in with ideas or stories and sell them. It is typically a full-time job that takes experience and proof of competence in putting together magazines. To say what will get you in a seat at one of the larger mags, it seems to be networking and internships. Most people move up through internships, which most times you need to have been in a good design program or having a portfolio that proves your worth. Again, you're fighting to work for the top of the top - which in all honesty is just appearance these days. Probably 95% of magazines in production are ones you don't see at the bookstore or newsstand. There's nothing wrong with wanting to get into some of these places - it is very possible - but don't be afraid to look at the peripheral in your journey there.
102 weeks ago
102 weeks ago
Emily Moore:
Kirstina: I've currently got a friend that is working wit NatGeo, through a connection that she made while she was interning in the DC area. ...MoreKirstina: I've currently got a friend that is working wit NatGeo, through a connection that she made while she was interning in the DC area. Finding these sort of connections through internships is priceless and what I would definitely recommend.
102 weeks ago
102 weeks ago
Smith+Fritzy
A few days old, but pretty interesting: http://magculture.com/blog/?p=5647#comments
Looks pretty interesting. I won't dissect it for all the things, like how the ads are incorporated, but I will say this - from a production standpoint, what we'll save in printing costs we'll pay for in designers and programmers. Seriously - having to lay out articles in both vertical and horizontal positions? Ugh.
Joyce JeanBaptiste:
Wired Ipad it is leaving me in the dust. I am surely an amateur. I copy and paste from the internet when I advertise my business in my ...MoreWired Ipad it is leaving me in the dust. I am surely an amateur. I copy and paste from the internet when I advertise my business in my Newsletters. I am in the Flinstone age.It is true with this technology magazine writers will be like directors and musicians orchestrating their what is in in the content of their pages..I am a newbie on a shoestring budget right now.I am branding myself. Starting from scratch very small.I am only recently becoming computer savvy. But this video on the link you sent looks easy to grasp. to me. I am going to do more research about Wire Ipad. Thanks SF.
103 weeks ago
103 weeks ago
Smith+Fritzy
Dwell folding? http://bit.ly/cVATOm
Dwell is one of my favorite magazines - contemporary design and architecture, loved the photography, nothing to say bad about it. However, I haven't bought an issue in probably a year. Shelter mags have been dipping far before the recession hit - in a way, they were the precursor of the current problems.
Andrew Shell:
I've only picked up Dwell once or twice but it seems like a great mag. I love how the older ones are on Google Books. I wish more magazines ...MoreI've only picked up Dwell once or twice but it seems like a great mag. I love how the older ones are on Google Books. I wish more magazines would do that. It certainly can't hurt them, since I can't imagine too many magazines get a lot of money from selling back issues.
103 weeks ago
103 weeks ago
:
I was all over Dwell when it first came out and when they became too rich for my blood that's when I stopped buying it. I hope that they don't ...MoreI was all over Dwell when it first came out and when they became too rich for my blood that's when I stopped buying it. I hope that they don't fold. After Domino (my favorite) folded, it left a huge hole in the Interior Design Industry.
I now look at http://www.lonnymag.com/, it sort of fills the void that Domino left behind.
Ciao!
103 weeks ago
I now look at http://www.lonnymag.com/, it sort of fills the void that Domino left behind.
Ciao!
103 weeks ago
Smith+Fritzy
How many of you read your local magazine. I'm guessing here, but almost every city or at least your closest larger city, has their own magazine and lots of them are free. Do you read them? What's your opinion of them?
Secondly, just a reminder, there's a webinar tonight at 9 PM EST. Join the chat, it's a lot of fun.
Rebecca Thorman:
I read and enjoy our local madisonmagazine.com and ibmadison.com - I think they're both pretty good, with the exception that they focuse a lot on ...MoreI read and enjoy our local madisonmagazine.com and ibmadison.com - I think they're both pretty good, with the exception that they focuse a lot on a lot of the local figureheads over and over again. I think they're getting better though.
103 weeks ago
103 weeks ago
Smith+Fritzy:
Thanks Rebecca. I'm beginning to wonder if the focus these local mags give to those figureheads can alter how close people feel to their own ...MoreThanks Rebecca. I'm beginning to wonder if the focus these local mags give to those figureheads can alter how close people feel to their own communities. I will say, the local mags I design right now are actually geared to the community and not stroking the egos of the rich and powerful. But ones I've previously worked on, and places I've lived, tend to make me feel disjointed from the community itself. Should it be a reflection of the community or are the ad dollars worth more?
103 weeks ago
103 weeks ago
Smith+Fritzy
I wanted to shoot off a few good websites those of you interested may like (if you don't already visit them). www.aphotoeditor.com is a great site to visit to get inside the head of a magazine photo editor, with lots of advice from lots of working pros. www.magculture.com/blog is a great blog for people who really LOVE magazines, mostly European as it's written by Englishman Jeremy Leslie. Lastly, www.magazinedeathpool.com ... it's eerily funny.
Emily Moore
What tips do you have for someone who is trying to break into the magazine industry?
Melissa Breau:
Also, the best way to become a writer is to write. People will want to see samples. While there are mixed feelings on this, I say find a place or ...MoreAlso, the best way to become a writer is to write. People will want to see samples. While there are mixed feelings on this, I say find a place or two to submit just enough "free" content that you can say .. here is proof - i have good ideas and i can carry through on them.
104 weeks ago
104 weeks ago
Emily Moore:
Thank you guys for your help! I'm definitely going to pursuit all of your recommendations. I'll let you know how it goes!
103 weeks ago
103 weeks ago
I received more confirmation about the importance of networking. Most of all I will apply getting to know editors of magazines more. I need to focus on editors and photography editors of magazines. I live in Asia now but I have made connections with lots of people of various industries and I don't even speak the language. People are more receptive here as opposed to Europe (even if I would prefer living there) but I feel that circumstancea may plant my feet here for awhile.
To Smith+Fritzy:
I have some magazine work experience and my photos can be found in a major design book by Tom Dixon (http://www.tomdixon.net). I two possible incredible opportunities with a two huge magazines. It would send my career to higher heights.
Shannon Coffey:
Hey Felicia! I love those two, almost like brother and sister. BTW, your photos are fantastic. I especially like your interior stuff. If you'd ...MoreHey Felicia! I love those two, almost like brother and sister. BTW, your photos are fantastic. I especially like your interior stuff. If you'd like to see what a beginner is up to, I've got some shots up here: http://www.dudethatwasepic.com.
Hope to see you at the next one!
104 weeks ago
Hope to see you at the next one!
104 weeks ago
Melissa Breau
What's the biggest lesson you've had to learn professionally?
Neeraj Bhushan:
The best professional lesson that I learnt was that one should be a mute spectator to all wrongs in one's office and just be bothered about one's ...MoreThe best professional lesson that I learnt was that one should be a mute spectator to all wrongs in one's office and just be bothered about one's bread and butter. If one goes mad with the truth and starts speaking the truth, one is not liked. One cannot change any system, hence one should be part of that system!
104 weeks ago
104 weeks ago
Smith+Fritzy:
@neeraj I think that's definitely true, but I think more so it's about learning compromise. Realizing that though we tend to think we have the ...More@neeraj I think that's definitely true, but I think more so it's about learning compromise. Realizing that though we tend to think we have the logical truth in an argument, we have to learn to accept there's always different ways to view it. That and arguing only gets you so far - usually out the door.
104 weeks ago
104 weeks ago
