Date: Saturday, April 16
Place: Halifax, WFNS 1114 Marginal Road
Time: 9:30-4:30 Fee: $140 (inc. HST)
Focus: travel writing for print publications (newspapers and magazines) as well as e-zines and blogs. Participants will explore the opportunities, and learn about different kinds of travel writing (advertorial, service, round ups, essays, feature, etc.) Samples will be provided. We’ll also discuss pre-trip research, how to analyze markets, expectations of clients and editors, the importance of taking decent photos (and how), the value of networking and all about press trips.
OVERVIEW who buys copy or hires travel writers? (where are the outlets/ opportunities?)
- what does being a “travel writer” mean? (and defining how you want to fit in)
SETTING GOALS
- determining your interests and expertise
- niche writing vs diversification
- creating a game plan to BE a travel writer
QUERIES
- how to analyze a market and understand editor/client needs
- how to write an appropriate query/pitch
PHOTOGRAPHY
- what do editors/clients expect?
- the art of taking great shots (10 tips for “wow” photos)
- how to send/present photos to editors/clients
MARKETING and NETWORKING
- professional travel writing organizations e.g., TMAC. Expectations? Benefits?building a portfolio + testimonials
RESEARCH
- getting to know your destination; mining for story ideas, developing angles
- finding experts (and locals) to interview
TRIPS
- press trips vs setting up individual itineraries (pro’s and con’s of each)
- before you go: planning tips
- who pays? How arranged? What’s expected?
- protocols and trip etiquette
