Inside Secrets: What Editors Look for in Styled Shoot Submissions

By Tracey Manailescu, WPIC Co-founder and Vice President

Getting your styled shoot published in a popular wedding blog or magazine can elevate your business to new heights. However, the submission process can be competitive and daunting. In this post, we’ll demystify the process of getting your styled shoot published and provide you with valuable tips on what editors are looking for. From preparing your submission to crafting the perfect pitch, we’ve got you covered. Ready to see your work in print? Let’s get started!

1. Understanding What Editors Look For:

• Unique and Fresh Concepts: You will need to present a unique and fresh concept that stands out from other submissions. Editors are looking for new ideas and trends.
• High-Quality Photography: You must have professional, high-resolution images that are well-lit and beautifully styled.
• Consistency and Cohesion: Highlight the cohesive theme throughout the shoot, including colour palettes, styling, and details.
• Attention to Detail: Editors appreciate attention to detail, from the smallest decor elements to the overall composition.
• Storytelling: Tell a compelling story through your images and descriptions. It can captivate editors and the readers.

2. Preparing Your Submission:

• Curate Your Best Images: Select the best images that represent the shoot, ensuring a mix of wide shots, close-ups, and detailed shots.
• Write a Detailed Description: Include a well-written description that explains the concept, inspiration, and key elements of the shoot.
• Vendor Credits: Include full credits for all vendors involved, website link, along with their contact information and social media handles.
• Follow Submission Guidelines: Carefully read and follow the submission guidelines provided by the blog or magazine.

3. Crafting the Perfect Pitch:

• Personalized Approach: Personalize your pitch to the specific Editotor and publication, demonstrating that you’ve researched their style and audience. Use their first and last name.
• Engaging Introduction: Write an engaging introduction that grabs the editor’s attention and conveys the essence of your styled shoot.
• Highlighting Key Points: What make your shoot unique? Discuss the innovative design elements, unique locations, or noteworthy collaborations.
• Professionalism and Politeness: Maintain a professional and polite tone throughout your pitch.

4. Sample Pitch:

Subject: Styled Shoot Submission: [Title of Your Styled Shoot]

Hi [Editor’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a wedding planner based in [Your Location]. I am thrilled to submit a styled shoot titled “[Title of Your Styled Shoot]” for consideration in [Blog/Magazine Name].

Inspired by [Brief Inspiration], this shoot features a [Describe the Theme/Style], bringing together a talented team of vendors to create a truly unique and breathtaking scene. We focused on [Key Elements], ensuring every detail was thoughtfully designed to tell a cohesive and enchanting story.

Here are some highlights:

Unique Concept: Describe the unique concept briefly

Location: Describe the location

Key Elements: List a few key elements, such as florals, decor, fashion

Attached, you will find a selection of high-resolution images that showcase the shoot’s beauty and creativity. The full vendor list and credits are included below.

Thank you for considering this submission. I believe it aligns perfectly with the style and content of [Blog/Magazine Name], and I would be honored to see our work featured.

Warm regards,

[Your Name] [Your Contact Information] [Your Website/Social Media Links]

Vendor Credits:

[Photographer: Name and contact] [Florist: Name and contact] [Other Vendors: Name and contact]

5. Following Up:

• Polite Follow-Up: Follow up politely if you haven’t received a response within a few weeks.
• Being Patient: Be patient, as editors often receive a high volume of submissions and may take time to respond.