Feature articles should be in the range of 1,000 to 1,500 words.

Items in the 300 to 500 word range will be considered for the news section (Pre-Flight).

Longer articles are generally reserved for more technical or historical subjects.

Types of articles considered for publication:

Balloon events/rallies: Must be written on events that have recently taken place. Post-event articles should be submitted as soon as possible after the completion of the event.  Information to include: the event's name, its history, its organizers, participating balloonists, other attractions in the area (famous restaurants, river raft trips, shopping, etc.), value of the event to the community, etc.

Safety seminars: Educational event articles should be written enhance the knowledge.  Writers must secure the permission of the “presenter” whose information is being used.

Balloon clubs/organizations: Describe the history of the organization, what members do, special and unique events, projects, or activities.  Show how the club promotes the sport of ballooning and handles public relations.

General interest stories: Can be interviews or biographies of people who have made a contribution to the sport of ballooning or other general interest items.

Crew Quarters: A regular column devoted to some aspect of crewing. May be educational, tell as story of a crew experience, or share some other aspect of the sport. 900 words preferred.

Contributions should include pictures (color and black & white) with captions (pictures should be able to tell the story), charts, maps, or additional information that would be helpful in conveying the story to the readers.  Digital imagery is best submitted on a CD-ROM. Images should be 300 dpi or greater in resolution.

All material will be submitted on a speculation basis only. The material will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The writer will be notified in writing within two weeks of receipt of the material whether it is being considered for publication. BALLOON LIFE will only consider articles for publication that have not previously been published.

PUBLICATION RATES

Rates for writers:

$50 for the first time North American rights of articles selected for publication $20 for short article (our Logbook Section) for balloon events that have recently taken place.

Rates for photography:

$15 for inside photos

$50 for the cover

Freelance pictures that are submitted will be considered for publication but generally only if they are of an unusual nature or used for the cover photo. Request photo guidelines for more information.

Those individuals who are interested in writing on a specific, technical topic should contact the editor to discuss subject areas, deadlines, and needs of the magazine. For these topics BALLOON LIFE will pay $100-200 for articles used on a specific subject, and may provide assistance in researching the subject.

BALLOON LIFE – 9 MADELINE AVE – WESTPORT, CONNECTICUT 06880. 

Phone: 203-629-1241

Email: bill_armstrong@balloonlife.com