Contributor Guide
Want to make something for Empire Times? This guide covers what you need to know before you submit, from word counts and images to editing, deadlines and publication.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before you start. If you have an idea, a draft or something you’d like to make, the editors can help you work out the next step.
Writing for print
For the print magazine, aim for 200–800 words.
Empire Times is A5, so shorter pieces often work better on the page and leave room for images, pull quotes and other design elements.
If your piece is longer than 800 words, it may be better suited to the Empire Times website (that’s where we are right now!). Poetry and some creative formats don’t need to follow the standard word count.
Images and visual work
Photography, illustration, comics and other visual work are welcome.
For print, supply the highest quality version you have. Ideally, artwork should be 300 dpi and provided as a PDF or JPEG.
If you’re creating something specifically for a full A5 page, the finished page size is 148 mm × 210 mm. If your artwork runs right to the edge, allow a 5 mm bleed.
If you’re not sure about sizing or file setup, send what you have and the editors can help you work it out.
Before you write or pitch
You don’t need a fully formed idea before you get in touch, but it can help to think about:
• What’s the main idea, story or argument?
• What perspective are you bringing to it?
• Why might Flinders students be interested in it?
• Is there a particular format that suits the idea?
• Is it connected to a particular issue, event or deadline?
If you’re not sure yet, that’s fine. You can pitch the idea and work through it with the editors.
How to submit
When your piece is ready, send it through the Empire Times submission form.
For written work, upload a Word document where possible. For artwork, photography or other visual work, upload the highest quality file you have available.
Include your name, contact details and anything the editors should know about the piece, including whether it is connected to a particular issue or deadline.
If you are still developing the idea, use the pitch form instead.
Original work, sources and permissions
Submit work that is your own and hasn’t already been published elsewhere. This includes other magazines, blogs, newsletters and work submitted for academic credit.
If you use research, quotes, statistics or other people’s ideas, make it clear where the information came from so the editors can check and attribute it properly.
For photography, artwork and other visual material, only submit work you created yourself or have permission to use. If you’re unsure about an image or other material you want to include, let the editors know.
Anonymity and pseudonyms
You can ask to publish your work anonymously or under a pseudonym.
If you do, the editors will still need to know who you are so they can work with you on the piece, but your identity can be kept confidential in the published version.
If anonymity matters to you, mention it when you submit or pitch your idea so the editors can discuss the best approach with you.
Deadlines and timing
Each print issue has its own contributor deadline. Sending your work before the deadline gives the editors more time to review, edit and plan how it will fit into the magazine.
You can still pitch ideas or submit work outside those dates. The editors may be able to consider it for the website or a later issue.
If your piece is connected to a particular event, date or current issue, let the editors know when you submit it.
Questions or not sure?
You don’t need to have everything worked out before you get in touch.
If you have an idea but aren’t ready to submit, send a pitch. If your work is ready to go, use the submission form.
If you’re unsure about word count, images, deadlines, formatting or whether something is a good fit, the editors can help you work it out.