Do I retain the copyright to my published images?

Yes, you retain full ownership of your images. Sky Publishing will send you a release form, called a Publishing Agreement, which you must sign and return before we can publish your images. Basically, it's a legal contract that states you're the actual photographer of the image and that you're giving permission to Sky Publishing for a one-time, non-exclusive use of your image in our print and electronic media.

We will notify you if we decide to use your image in some way other than you intended when you submitted it. The same goes if we wish to reuse it for a different article, department, or issue.

What if I change my mind and decide to withdraw my submission?

You should inform Sky Publishing in writing as soon as possible. Your materials will then be returned to you promptly.

Is it OK to submit my images to other publications?

Sky & Telescope like all magazines, prefers unique content. Therefore we ask you not to submit your images elsewhere until you have heard back from us as to whether we intend to use them.

Does Sky Publishing play favorites, or are you open to all contributors?

When we do our initial selection of images for a particular article, we don't pay attention to the names of the photographers — we base our choices solely on the merits of each image. This is especially true for our Gallery and Skyscapes departments. The reason you see certain photographers' names appearing repeatedly in our pages is that they submit images to us on a regular basis. Remember, we cannot publish your images unless you send them to us!

I was told you plan to use one of my pictures. When?

Usually within a few months, maybe more. Owing to the limited number of pages available in any given issue of the magazine, we cannot publish all the superb images that we receive. Even having your images accepted for serious consideration doesn't guarantee that they'll get published.

Will Sky Publishing compensate me for holding on to my images?

No. We do not pay holding fees for images that have been put on file with a photographer's consent. If you need your materials returned promptly, follow the instructions given earlier.

How long will it take before I get my materials back?

Submissions that have been rejected outright are mailed back as quickly as possible. Please don't take it personally if your image doesn't get accepted. We publish only 12 issues a year, and the selection process is unforgiving. Your best bet is to keep trying.

Those images that have been accepted for consideration but didn't make it to the current issue are considered for use in subsequent issues. That's why an image sometimes takes a while to make it into print. We don't deliberately hang on to your materials without your expressed consent.

If you have any questions not answered by this guide, please contact us. Thanks for your interest in Sky & Telescope!