As we all know, there is no scientific formula to follow to get work published. To the regret of most photographers getting published has more to do with having good business sense than having a good eye. The biggest downfall for us all is that we are emotionally connected to our images - making us weep at the sound of rejection. But with a willingness to keep coming back for more and putting our name and work in front of photo editors, our chance of getting published greatly improves. Today's markets are flooded with great images. So, how does one go about getting work published over the others? It's a crap shoot, really. But here are some tips I think will improve your chances:

1) The most important step you need to take is to get your hands on a copy of the publication's "Photography Guidelines." These guidelines will tell you how and when they want images. To get a copy of the guidelines, look in the credit section of the publication (usually located in the first 10 pages) and get the name of the art director or, even better, the photo editor. If there is a phone number, contact the publication to get this information, or get an email address and ask how you might obtain a copy of the guidelines. Take into consideration the time of month you're contacting the person and try not to contact them during deadline times.

2) Simplify the process of how you send your images. Originals are always best, but super high quality dupes are also acceptable. Just make sure the quality is up to your standards. Unless they state that they will accept a CD of images, do not s end your images this way. I know it's easy, costs less and reduces the chance of losing originals, but it's impractical. Editors don't want to stop the work they're doing on their computers to load a CD of images that may or may not work. Plus, the images may look good on your monitor, but there's no guarantee they will look the same on an editor's monitor.

3) Presentation of your images says what kind of business person you are. Pay attention to how the publication's guidelines ask for images to be presented. If they leave it open, take the simplistic approach - no more than 20 of your images in a simple page or mat. Label each image with your name, address, phone number and a short description of the image. Use some sort of a labeling system to write the information as opposed to hand writing the information. Using a label writing system will add a touch of professionalism to the overall presentation.

4) Include a short, to-the-point cover letter with your submission. Locations you photograph in, types of subjects you shoot and any other specific information about your work will help the editors get to know you. Make sure you use letterhead with some sort of a company name/logo. Remember this is an image thing! Not only are you selling your best work, but you are also selling an image (business persona). Think about major companies. When you receive something from them you know who you are dealing with. It's present on their envelopes, letterhead, stationary, business cards, Website, and etc. Little details go a long way.

5) Once your submission is turned in, do not call to see if your images have arrived safely or check to see if they are interested in your work. They will let you know. If you are worried about your images arriving safely, use a shipping or mailing service that gives you a tracking number and one that requires a signature. I especially like having someone sign for my packages because once the shipping house loads the signature into their computer system I get a confirmation e-mail telling me my package has arrived. It's a stress reliever.

So, what do I do when I don't get accepted? Pick yourself up and try again. For the most part, editors want to build relationships with photographers and writers. It makes their jobs a lot easier. They like using the same people again and again. So, if your work gets shot down it might not be because they don't like your work. It could be because they are testing you to see how you will respond. If you keep putting your name and work in front of an editor you're more likely to be published. Just make sure when you make the next submission you trade out some of the work for new images.

Now, let's go another direction. You've submitted your work and it has been accepted. CONGRATULATIONS!! What to do now? Submit again and see what happens. At this point it would be good for you to strengthen your relationship with the editor. This meeting should be arranged at the editor's convenience. At this meeting, you should ask about a photo "want list" for future publications and about working with writers. You might also want to discuss special projects or areas of your interest - the list of things to talk about is open. Just remember to be yourself, and this is a job interview so dress accordingly.

Seeing your work published is the payoff for all the shooting and selling you have to do to get there. Just remember, this is a business - the publications see it that way and so should you. Its hard work but it's worth every bit of the effort you put into it.

Editor's Comment: Let us know what you think! Please email the Editor to let us know your thoughts. Broderick Stearns is a native South Oklahoma resident who graduated from Oklahoma State University/Okmulgee. He has an Applied Associate Degree in Photography Technology and is currently the head photographer for The Noble Foundation in Ardmore, OK. In addition, he is an adjunct instructor at the Southern Oklahoma Technology Center. His photographic career has spanned 7 years working for universities, newspapers, private organizations and running his own business. Broderick is also a contributing writer for PhotoMigrations.