Summarize:

Most magazines will post guidelines for what they want from photographers on their website or somewhere in the magazine. For instance, they may want a particular file size or format, or they may want you to style them in a particular way. It will also tell you how they prefer for you to submit and how much they pay. If you can't find submission guidelines, you can still submit to the magazine by finding an email or physical address. Generally, you can find this information on their website. When looking through staff members' emails, look for the photo editor or art director, and direct your query to that person, if the magazine is big enough to have such a person. Get an idea of what kind of photos they want, so you know what to submit. Make sure they are good quality and fit the style and subject matter of the magazine. If you don't have any that fit their style, choose another magazine, or try a photo shoot to capture what they want. The letter should explain who you are and what you want (to have your photos printed or to receive future assignments or both). You can do so in print or online but follow any guidelines the magazine offers. If you submit in print, be sure to include both printed images and a CD with high-resolution images, so they are ready to go if the magazine wants them.  You should also include a thumbnail page, a caption sheet, and a picture of yourself. You can also send a sample of your work so you are placed on their mailing list. You show a collection of your photos, and they may contact you when they have assignments. Keep your letter professional and to the point. For instance, you could write something like: "Dear Ms. (name), My name is Jo Jones, and I am a freelance photographer. I have been a fan of your magazine for over 10 years. I love the work you do, which is why I am submitting a portfolio of photographs to be considered for publication in your magazine. I feel like my style is in line with your current aesthetics. I hope that one of these photos fits your current needs, but if you don't find one to your liking, please keep me in mind for future projects. Regards, Jo Jones" Once you've sent an initial query letter, contact the magazine again within a month to make sure your name pops up when assignments come up. You want to keep up with the magazine, but don't bombard them. If you send them a new set of photos everyday, they may get annoyed and reject your work. If they make an offer, review the details and accept or reject the offer. If you're new to the scene, remember the offer could be fairly low for someone first starting out. If a magazine rejects you, don't send an angry reply. Thank them for their time. You may have better work in the future that they do like, and you want them to be receptive to it.
Look for submission guidelines. Peruse the site or the magazine. Pick five or six photos to send. Submit your selection with a query letter. Stay fresh in their minds. Review and accept the magazine's offer. Don't burn your bridges.