Otto Vondrak wrote:You're missing the point about not being compensated in Railpace. Getting your work in print is an important first step... Railpace is a good way to be recognized and get your name out there. For instance, when they meet you trackside, they may recognize your work and realize that you are serious about photography and offer tips or directions to good locations! Money is nice... but do you want to get published or are you just worried about getting paid?
But there comes a point where you have to say enough is enough. The first time you see your photo in print is about the only time you'll get excited about it. A paying magazine is less likey to use a photo that's already been run in another magazine. If you're not getting any money the first time a photo is published, assuming your name is already "out" there, you're not getting anything at all. I had been collaborating with Railpace on a series a few years ago but ducked out halfway through it once it clicked I wasn't getting any more out of it than a free magazine.
Getting your material into feature articles in magazines is again different. If you have a story idea, pitch it to an editor. Let him know your background, your experiences, and where you have appeared in print previously. If you are a relative unknown, you may be asked for some samples before they commit to a feature. Maybe you know someone who regularly contributes to the magazine who can vouch for your work. That is how you get into the magazines.
Everything revolves around having a relationship with an editor. The same goes for Sports Illustrated and National Geographic, too. Starting a relationship can be as easy as sending an e-mail and asking about future needs for a specific magazine. "Hi, I'm [Blank]. How's the weather in Waukesha today? How 'bout them Packers, eh? Me? Oh, I live in [Blank] and do some free-lance photography. I've got a gallery at [URL]. If you see anything you're interested in please let me know! I'm always out shooting and expanding my coverage further. Take care, [Blank]." How hard is that?
And yes, I's speaks froms experiences.
Just for fun I thought I'd call him on this and picked out a random issue of Railpace for a test. Sure 'nuff, two photos on page 44 of the November 2003 issue by our fearless leader. Mmhmm.