Some non-fiction articles need a photo or two to make the story compelling, and to hold the interest of the editor and then, hopefully, the reader. Freelance writers don't have to be professional photographers to include photos with their copy when submitting to magazine publishers. With the ease of digital cameras today, anyone can take a good clear photo a magazine publisher would be happy to use. Photographs not only add interest to the article, but they often reap higher financial rewards for the freelancer.
Photos Sell Newspapers (and Magazines)
Photos have always sold newspapers, as well as magazines. They are what catches the eye of the browser queuing up the pay the cashier. And as she flips through the glossy pages with no time for a quick read, she purchases it, based on those photos as well as the larger-faced titles found within. Editors and magazine art departments love good photos. The photos sell the magazine and they could also sell your article.
Christine Ridout, in her article, Picture Perfect: Using Photos to Sell Your Articles, suggests you don't send photos with article submissions, but to simply advise the editor that they are available. However, a photo sent with the article may offer the editor that "wow" factor and encourage her to read it rather than place it on her slush pile. The best time to suggest there are photos available is when sending out queries.
A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
It's not unusual for a photograph taken for one particular article idea to spur the imagination further – with more story ideas.
For example, let's assume you are writing a story about the present argument over who owns the North-West Passage (Canada) and you head on up to the Arctic Circle for a few pictures. When viewing the photographs, you note how wide the passage has become, when your research tells you only a few short years ago it was all ice. This spurs a secondary article about the melting ice in the north, the Green House Effect and the scientific argument over whether or not this is something that is cyclical with the comings and goings of ice throughout history.
A picture is indeed worth a thousand words, and then another thousand words.
Stories Through the Lens of a Camera
Many writers keep their cameras with them at all times. It's easy enough to pull the car over to take a picture of a hawk flying overhead with a rodent in its beak. There is a story there. Unusual or rare scenes occur at the oddest moments and they are worth noting. Keep your battery charged and your memory card free, so you'll never be without that perfect shot.
For Information on taking the perfect digital photo, the following is a good source. Taking Digital Photos
Lorraine Syratt - Lorraine Syratt is a freelance writer, gardener and part-time antique dealer. Please see her full profile for more information.
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