Photo Guidelines
Off-Piste accepts editorial and photographic submissions year round. We look for writing and images that capture the spirit of backcountry adventure. Not sure if your idea is right for Off-Piste or you want to know if we would like to see more, contact us.
FEATURES
Feature stories should inspire us to head for the hills. Share the energy and spirit of your adventure or philosophize on the essence of backcountry skiing and riding. Stories need to go beyond trip narratives and be grounded in the backcountry experience. 1000+ words - photos/artwork a plus.
DEPARTMENTS
Access / News - There are many issues associated with backcountry skiing - resort expansion, user fee news, avalanche incidents, first descents, access controversies, events, and unique accomplishments. Help us keep the backcountry community informed; share the latest scoop on your local scene. 200+ words
Avalanche / Weather - Backcountry users are focused on weather and avalanche concerns and the more info we can share the better. Use an educational approach - teach us something - share your experience. 1000+ words
Backcountry Beta - Everyone appreciates good beta. Do you have advice related to the backcountry, a simple fix to a complex problem, a cool homemade solution, beta on backcountry etiquette, a great recipe for a hut trip? 500+ words
Gear Talk - Where would we be without gear? We want to hear about your favorite homegrown solution, field repair ideas, and gear opinions. Have a special wax blend or easy base repair idea? Send it our way. 1000+ words
Interviews / Profiles - We like to hear about folks who live and breathe the outdoor life. Do you have an inside line with someone who fits the description? Share their philosophy or tell us how they got where they are today. 1000+words
Inspire us! Have an idea of your own? We are always open to new ideas - drop us an e-mail.
Photographic Needs
We are looking for superb images that exemplify backcountry skiing and riding. We are not simply after big air and rad lines, infact if it was shot from a helicopter, we don't want it; we want aesthetic lines and shots that say human powered backcountry. As a black and white publication, we seek high contrast and clean images that reproduce well in grayscale. Interesting light, action, motion, and a backcountry setting are key elements we look for in images. Creativity is encouraged. We accept color or black and white photos and prefer digital submissions or 35mm slides. All photos should inspire our readers to grab their gear and head for the backcountry. In addition to general backcountry action shots, we need the following:
Backcountry ski culture; hut life, road trips, events, winter living
Avalanche related, rescue, slide paths, crowns, debris piles
Backcountry snowboarding images
Deep snow tree skiing
Inspire us!
Written Submissions Should Include
A printed copy of the article for easy reading.
An electronic copy on a PC formatted disk - save the file as "text only" and in its native format (the program used to create it).
Alternatively, e-mail your document. Attach as a "text only" file or send in body of message. E-mail submissions are encouraged!
Information on how to contact you via phone, e-mail, and US Post.
Photographic Submissions Should Include
Original images in clear plastic sleeves. Please include a list with skier/rider name and location when possible. Include your name and address on each photo/slide to assure their safe return.
Alternately, send low (72dpi) or high (300dpi) resolution scans on a CD. Scans should be in a Photoshop readable format (jpg or tiff) and be sure to include a list of names and locations for each image. Low res scans may be sent via e-mail for review purposes. All slides will be returned promptly following review or use.
Deadline:
Although we accept submissions throughout the year, spring and summer is the time. Submissions received by August 1st have the best chances of being selected for use in the upcomming season.
