Why I’m No Longer Chasing Magazine Features as a Fashion Photographer
Why I’m Not Shooting for Magazines Anymore, And Why That Might Be Okay for You Too
There’s something undeniably thrilling about seeing your photography in print. I remember the first time I saw one of my editorials published in a magazine… it was surreal, like a dream from my teenage years coming to life.
For a long time, magazine features were the goal.
In fact, for the first 10 years of my photography career, getting published was right up there with landing paid client work. It didn’t even matter if I was being paid for the editorial (spoiler alert: I often wasn’t), I just wanted to see my images in the pages of the magazines I had adored growing up.
But things have changed. For me, and for the industry.
Are Magazine Features Still Worth It?
My honest answer? Sometimes.
There’s no denying that we’re living in a digital-first world. Magazine issues are shrinking, print budgets are tighter, and fewer people are turning to traditional publications for inspiration or validation. That doesn’t mean getting published is worthless, but it also doesn’t need to be your north star anymore.
These days, my focus has shifted.
I still love the idea of publishing my work when it makes sense, especially if the outlet aligns with my style or values, but I’m no longer chasing editorial features as a primary goal. I’ve already done that part. Now, I’m all about creating work I truly love and getting paid well to do it.
That’s the real win.
You Don’t Need Magazines to Be Taken Seriously
This is something I want every up-and-coming fashion photographer to hear:
You don’t have to be published to be successful.
In 2025, there are so many photographers running thriving businesses who’ve never once had their work in a print magazine. Their clients don’t care, and honestly, neither do they.
You can build a fulfilling, creative, profitable photography career on your own terms. Without the validation of a masthead. Without sacrificing your time, energy, or money for unpaid editorials that don’t move the needle.
If a magazine feature still excites you? Go for it - with intention. Choose the right outlets. Align your goals. But if you’re just doing it because you think you have to?
Let yourself off the hook.
Want Support Building a Photography Career That Feels Right for You?
That’s exactly what I help photographers do inside the Fashion Photography Club.
FPC is my membership for fashion photographers who want real-world guidance, creative inspiration, and business education - all in one place. It’s a space where you can grow at your own pace, connect with a like-minded community, and define success your way.
Inside the club, we focus on:
Building consistent income as a fashion photographer
Navigating the ever-changing industry without burnout
Attracting dream clients who value your vision
And yes, figuring out when (and if) things like magazine features actually matter to your goals
So if you’re ready to create a photography business that serves you, not the other way around, join the waitlist and be the first to know when doors reopen.
Join the Fashion Photography Club waitlist
