What follows are a list of five questions I’m often asked from modeling talents when it comes to pitching themselves to publications. Enjoy!
Who should I contact?
You should seek to find the most relevant person in the magazine for the pitch you are sending in. For example if you excel at developing nutrition features and the publication has a nutrition editor – that is your go to person. If you are looking to write for their fitness section; seek out their fitness editor. The bigger the publication, the more layers of editing staff their tends to be. With smaller publications you may have the opportunity to connect and communication with staff higher on the editorial ladder.
What should I include in my pitch?
Pitches, for the most part, should be short and concise. Showcase who you are, what you want to do and why you should be considered. It is often encouraged to include relevant samples of you work. Photos if you are pitching yourself as a talent and sample articles if you are pitching yourself as a writer. This allows the editing staff to review your previous accomplishments.
What photos should I send?
If you are sending images, only send professional and relevant images that the magazine would run themselves. This shows that you can shoot in the style that the magazine features. Do not send images that conflict with the publications brand. Also when sending images; unless directed otherwise, do not send high resolution versions of the images that clog up the magazine editor’s e-mail inbox.
I haven’t heard back, should I follow up?It is completely permissible to follow up on a pitch. Realize that magazine editors are insanely busy and may not have time to respond to every e-mail. However, great editors are on the look out for great content for their readers. A polite follow up is certainly okay; but do not go overboard with constant messages. A regular follow up with new ideas and pitches is also a good idea.
What pitches work the best?
First off, pitches that indicate that you have seen and are familiar with the publication and what they feature separates it from a bevy of generic “copy and paste” pitches. The best pitches also answer what I call the “so what” factor. Meaning they illustrate what is in it for the magazine and it’s readers. What you are bringing to the table that matters – and why it matters. Is it a feature you are willing to write? Perhaps it is a new idea for content that you can help them develop. Perhaps it is something you already created that fits the magazine’s brand and style. These are just a few ideas. But focus on the “so what” factor of your pitch before sending.
James Patrick
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