Getting published in a pinup magazine

Did you know that you don’t have to be an experienced model to submit your photographs to a popular pin up magazine like Retro Lovely or Bombshell? It’s true! With a little planning, almost anyone can become a published pinup!

I’m Catherine Morland (that’s my nom-de-pinup these days!), and I’ve been a client of Marilee’s for over a year. My first pinup photoshoot was way back in 2012, with my first publication coming in 2013. I know what it’s like to be new and confused by the submission process, so I’m sharing some of my best tips for getting published so you can maximize your chances of approval by the pinup magazine of your choice.

Reconsider what you think a pinup “should” look like.

The truth is, a beautiful pinup looks just like YOU. There are tons of publications searching for a variety of content, so no matter what your size, shape, age, ethnicity, height, or style, you’ll find options for submission.

Think about your personal style and the kinds of themes you’d want to shoot.

While the world of pinup may seem focused on 1950s retro themes or sexy boudoir outfits, that’s really only a piece of a vast landscape of options. If your vibe is more modern, or simply different, there are publications and special editions that cater to many other styles and themes from cosplay to tasteful nudity.

If your goal is a particular publication or special edition, you must specifically tailor your shoot to its rules, guidelines and deadlines. If you just want to be published somewhere, however, then there’s more leeway. Most publishers have at least one recurring title that prints a variety of content, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t have any specific requirements at all. Some request that you to avoid sending black-and-white images unless needed for specific themes. Some may prefer studio or indoor shots, while others may appreciate both indoor and outdoor settings. In all instances, it’s a good idea to research your options before you choose a theme, set a timeline and budget for the project, decide on settings, props and wardrobe, and book a shoot.

Getting ready to submit.

Every publication has different rules and practices when it comes to submissions, but you’re usually asked to submit 1-10 high resolution images (sometimes more), all from the same shoot. In nearly all cases, they require previously unpublished work that isn’t currently under consideration by another publication. Some publishers, like Retro Lovely, don’t mind if you post a preview shot on social media, but others, like Bombshell, require that your submissions are publicly unseen until publication.

All publishers have very specific requirements to land a cover; for example, they may ask you to submit a minimum number of usable images to be considered. Six photos is usually enough, but refer to the specific instructions provided by each publisher to be certain. Some will only award covers to photos where the model is making eye contact with the camera and smiling with teeth. Others strongly suggest images that feature upper body, head + shoulders, or full body shots. And all publications need portrait-oriented (vertical) shots with enough room around the subject to allow for cropping during the printing process. Retro Lovely actually provides specific instructions on their website for how to compose shots to maximize the possibility of a cover.

Submitting those photos.

Some photographers submit images on your behalf, others don’t. If you’ll be submitting yourself, make sure you have enough high resolution image files to make this happen. Some photo packages may only provide you with web files, which are not suitable for print. If your photographer has expressly agreed to submit high res files on your behalf, then you don’t have to worry about this. Otherwise, you might find yourself spending extra money to purchase additional files.

The submission process itself will vary by publication. Retro Lovely has its own submission portal. Other publishers may ask you to use Dropbox or another file sharing service to send them your image files. Most publications focus solely on photos, but some may ask you to answer some questions or provide a short bio to accompany your spread. In all instances, follow the specific submission instructions provided by the publisher.

While basic submission and publication is always free, some publishers offer guaranteed options for a fee. If it’s important to you that you achieve a certain number of pages in your spread, appear on a cover, or get a minimum level of social media promotion by the publisher, then these options might be worth considering. Unless a paid cover option is offered, though, it’s never a good idea to ask for a cover. Full stop.

In all instances, some sort of signed legal release is required for the publisher to use your photos. It doesn’t matter who’s submitting; you as the model and your photographer will each have to provide this documentation in one way or another. To avoid confusion, make sure that both of you are on the same page as far as who’s doing what, and pay careful attention to the specific requirements of the publication to which you’re submitting. And, follow up to make sure all the appropriate documentation has been completed and received by the publisher.

Waiting on publication.

Here’s where things can get a bit anxious. Some publishers are happy to accept all high quality work and like to reward models and photographers who regularly submit great pictures, while others are limited as to publication space and have to be super-selective. Some publishers will make decisions right away, while others may take months to approve or decline your set. In all cases, be patient.

Once published, you’ll have the option to purchase your issue. Most pinup magazines use on- demand print services like Magcloud or Blurb to sell physical and .pdf copies of their publications. Some may offer discounts to models and photographers, particularly if you want to order several print copies. Free copies are rare, but Bombshell offers digital tearsheets of your spread on request, at no charge.

And that’s it! Good luck, and enjoy your issues in good health.

Publications to consider.

There are many worthwhile pinup publications out there, but here are a few that have published me...

Retro Lovely (http://www.retrolovely.com) is one of the biggest players in the business right now, and for good reason. Their flagship pinup title is famous and prestigious, and all their recurring titles and special editions are compelling and high quality. They publish a diverse array of styles, themes, and models, which means that they literally offer something for everyone. The Retro Lovely submission portal makes the submission process easy, and their response times are phenomenal.

Bombshell Magazine (https://www.myboudoir.co.uk/bombshell), along with its sister publication Femme Rebelle, is another prestigious publication that publishes a variety of gorgeous pinup photography. There is at least one volume of themeless pinup each month, with the occasional holiday theme. The editor responds quickly and is lovely to work with.

Delicious Dolls (https://soliz387.wixsite.com/deliciousdolls) is a pinup mainstay publication with a very active social media presence, focusing on pinup photography with at least a touch of retro.

And here are a few other pinup magazines I enjoy...

Pinup Plus (https://www.instagram.com/pinup.plus.magazine/) is a monthly themed pinup magazine dedicated to “plus size and curvy” pinup, featuring high quality photography and beautiful plus size models.

Pinup Kulture Magazine (https://linktr.ee/pinupkulturemagazine) is another lovely monthly publication welcoming both traditional and modern pinup as well as boudoir photography. They occasionally run themes.

Deville Magazine (https://devillegarage.com/) is dedicated to “kustom kulture, lowbrow art, wheels & women,” which of course includes great pinup photography.