I’ve been writing about food for a long time. I started out freelancing for a local newspaper, the Columbia Flier, back in the day when print media was still mostly thriving, authors typed on typewriters, and the current Internet was only vaguely imagined by the most forward-looking visionaries. Despite the stunning array of changes since then, I’ve been pretty busy writing food articles and cookbooks ever since.
Today it’s tougher than ever to get food writing assignments because, as everybody knows, the traditional markets—from newspaper food sections and food magazines to cookbook publishers—are now downsizing and/or disappearing at an accelerating rate. As a result, it’s now vital to think outside the old publishing box. Competition for the scarce print media work, whether freelance or staff, is so fierce that it’s more realistic for all but very experienced job seekers to focus most where the opportunities are still expanding–meaning the Internet.
It’s also realistic to expect to have to “work your way up,” from smaller websites and publications to better known ones. Higher profile venues almost always want to see samples of previous articles or recipes you’ve done to assure themselves that your skills are sound. (Think of this as having to play in the minors a while before getting to the big league!)
Despite all the dramatic changes, many of the characteristics food/cookbook editors and other food content providers (whether Internet based or not) are looking for in freelancers or employees have remained the same for decades. Check out my story, “What Food Editors are Still Looking For,” for some specifics of how to approach editors, deliver what the want, and establish and maintain good relationships here .
A list of resources of to get you started honing your basic skills as a food writer follows:
Will Write For Food by Dianne Jacob
Good overall intro to various types of food writing. Solid nuts and bolts info on testing and writing up recipes—which is vital to know.
http://www.diannej.com/blog/
Dianne Jacob has a great blog covering all sorts of food writing issues and topics. She also tweets useful tips.
http://www.online-writing-jobs.com/jobs/freelance-food-writing-jobs.phpa
Check this to get an idea of what sorts of writing opportunities (not necessarily food) out there and what they might pay. I’d ask around and/or do some research on the various organizations listed before signing up to work for them.
http://www.writingcareer.com/articles/become_a_freelance_food_writer.php
Some basics on writing about food. The writer makes this easier than it sounds, however.
http://www.freelancewriting.com/newsletters/food-writing-newsletter.php
On-line newsletter/tips from somebody who appears to know.
http://www.essortment.com/career/freelancewritin_smkn.htm
Tips on how to get started writing for food mags. Very practical info for a tough market.
PS–Some folks are apparently optimistic about getting writing jobs: The Columbia School of Journalism applications are up; read about it here.
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