Kicking off the blog

I'm not sure how often there will be posts, but I do know that I want to start showcasing some of the great talent that submits as well as start talking about what we look for in images. We'll be using images that come from our submitters as well as our own photography team to highlight some of the do's and don't's for submissions.

Let's start with how we select a table of contents. In no particular order, here's what we look for when selecting a table of contents.

First, there has to be spacing and it must be a landscape image. There has to be enough availability to put text in various spots for credits, for the table of contents itself, and for our logo. The space needs to be readable, so often this means open area that was left based on the rule of thirds. This image for issue #6 of Lady Batserina by Giselle Yeung Photographer really shows how we can leverage that extra "white" space.

Second, it has to fit one of the main Concepts in the issue beyond a doubt. This image by Nightrose Photo is of Damien Taylor, a well built guy that fits our Concept of Fabulously Fit pretty well, don't you think?

That's the second thing we look for when picking a table of contents.

The last, and really the most important thing once the other two criteria are met, is how great the shot is. This means it has to draw your attention; it has to capture an emotion or a thought; it has to be well lit and very well in focus. Kate Kubala's image, taken by BMPro Photography, is emotional, light fantastically and crystal clear.

This is a double page image that kicks off the issue. Outside of the front and back covers, the table of contents is the next most important image that either makes or breaks the issue from a quality standpoint.

I hope that helps answer how we select our table of contents!

#TOC #SelectionCriteria