This may seem a bit meta, but did you know there are loads of digital and print publications that are specifically geared towards readers who are journalists or freelance writers? They are usually wonderful reads and often these magazines and digital outlets are also looking for contributors. I’ve complied a list of 9 great publications throughout the world where you can write about writing.

Want to write about writing?

9 great publications for journalists and freelance writers to pitch

1. Newswrite

Newswrite is produced by Writing NSW for its members four times a year, and covers all kinds of content, including special features, writing tips and more.

If you’re interested in contributing, email the editor Kirsten (editor@writingnsw.org.au) with a 100-word pitch with previous examples of your writing.

“We are looking for exciting, innovative and diverse writing,” Kirsten told me.

While it’s definitely worth pitching, it’s also worth knowing that the magazine commissions around four paid articles each issue.

Rates: around 50c (AUD) a word

2. Author magazine

Author is an online magazine that runs feature articles on writing and being a writer, book reviews, as well as interviews with award-winning or bestselling authors of all genres.

There’s an opportunity for writers to get commissioned as service journalism pieces, particularly about freelance writing tend to be popular amongst the readers of this publication.

Rates: To be negotiated with the editor William (Bill) Kenower

Submission guidelines: https://www.authormagazine.org/about-us

3. Nieman Journalism Lab

“The Nieman Journalism Lab is an attempt to help journalism figure out its future in an Internet age,” states its website.

Nieman is a vibrant, smart and engaging online publication all about news, journalism, freelancing and the media. The editors are always keen to hear from freelance writers, and they pay (an undisclosed amount) for reported pieces.

For story pitches and other general correspondence: staff@niemanlab.org

4. Columbia Journalism Review

What I love about the Columbia Journalism Review is that it’s been around for over 50 years, and their longevity is based on their mission to be a respected voice and leader in the world of journalism.

The magazine and the digital platform both tackle meaty issues and it’s an important read for those of us in the ever changing world of the media.

Rates: 50c to $1 per word (USD), as negotiated

5. The Journalist Magazine

The Journalist is the magazine of the National Union of Journalists in the UK and is published six times a year.

Freelancers are encouraged to pitch articles about current news, issues and trends.

Pitch: journalist@nuj.org.uk

6. Written By

Written By is a bimonthly magazine published by the Writers Guild of America. It’s a fascinating read because it covers both creative fiction and non-fiction writing, such as screenwriting, novel writing and freelancing.

Pitch: The editor

Rates: Reported to be at least $1,000 (USD)

7. IJNET (International Journalists Network)

IJNET is such a treasure trove of information for journalists and writers.

It provides information and opportunities in seven languages, but the publication also covers new tools, resources, training and trends that impact journalists throughout the world.

They accept pitches and while most of their freelancers write in English, you can write in Spanish, Portuguese or Russian.

They do get lots of pitches, so it’s recommended that you familiarise yourself with their content and read their contributor guidelines.

8. Quill

Quill magazine is another great publication that tackles the challenges, opportunities and responsibilities of journalism.

It’s published by the Society of Professional Journalists and covers a variety of topics, from new and useful editing apps to interviews with award-winning writers and commentary on digital journalism.

Contact: Lou Harry is the editor and you can find him on Twitter

Rates: Depends on assignment

9. Delayed Gratification

Delayed Gratification is the world’s first slow journalism magazine. It’s a beautiful read, and one that focuses on fresh stories that provide insight into an event after the big news has broken.

According to their website, Delayed Gratification invests “in the best long-form, in-depth journalism in the world, accompanied by stunning images and photo features.”

Pitch: theeditors@slow-journalism.com (given the number of submissions they receive, you won’t always receive an acknowledgement)

But there are many more publications to pitch …

Of course, these nine publications are just the beginning of where you can pitch articles about writing.

Australian writers may want to pitch to The Walkley Magazine (though it’s worth noting that contributions are voluntary) or Rachel’s List and UK writers may want to explore contributing analytic articles to the British Journalism Review.

I’ve also found a couple of great sources about publications about journalism and technology and publications for journalists.

And if you’re keen to see what makes a pitch work, you can download my free resource that contains 10 real-life pitches that were commissioned by editors at Travel + Leisure, The Guardian, The Saturday Paper, The Sydney Morning Herald, Peppermint, Dumbo Feather and more.  

Have you written about writing? Are there other publications that you would recommend?