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Action. Although it is often
necessary to pose the photos that accompany articles, the trick is to make them not look
posed.
 This takes time. It takes a while for people being photographed to relax and forget
about the camera. Since the best photos show action, instead of having the subject pretend
to do a task, try having them actually do it.
Subjects. People like looking at photos of
people. Photos of inanimate objects are very hard to make interesting. If you can't think
of any way to involve people in your photos, give the editor a call to discuss this
problem, and we'll try to think of some alternatives.
Light. Natural light is best for photos,
although skilled photographers can use strobes effectively. In hangars and workshops,
getting enough natural light is a challenge, but do your best. If you use a strobe or
other types of artificial light, make sure that your subject isn't too bright (this
problem is called "flash burn") and that the background isn't too dark. Use
diffused or bounced flash to avoid the impression that the subject is looming out of the
darkness.
Captions. We don't always print captions, but
it's good to have the information if we need it. If you send traditional paper prints,
don't write on the photo. Tape photo credits and left-to-right subject identification to
the back of the picture.
Digital cameras. Use the highest resolution
setting available on your camera. Magazine print quality is at least 600 dpi; 300 dpi is
acceptable, but below that, photos start too look fuzzy and crude. High-res settings take
more memory and create larger files, which make them harder to store and e-mail, but
nevertheless they are necessary to produce a professional magazine.
Traditional film. We still use lots of 35mm
photos, of course. We can scan either transparencies (which are preferable) or prints.
Miscellaneous. Include your name, address and
phone number. We will print credit lines, and return your photos after using them if you
request. If you use a photographer from your local Imaging Command, make sure you give us
their full name; all photographers like seeing their work in print.
Writing 101
| What is a magazine article?
| Why articles get edited | Writing tips
| Writing process | Ten steps
| Basic Template | How to shoot pictures
| How to send your article
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