Can I submit my work to DES_Photomag?
DES_Photomag works through open calls and curated selections. When submissions are open, they are announced in the Journal and on our social channels.

What kind of photography are you looking for?
We focus on strong, coherent bodies of work, regardless of genre or experience level. Editorial consistency and intent matter more than trends.

Is there a submission fee?
No. DES_Photomag does not charge submission fees.

Do you accept AI-generated images?

Short answer: No.

DES_Photomag is dedicated to photography as a human, intentional practice rooted in observation, authorship, and lived experience. For this reason, we do not accept fully AI-generated images in our publications, gallery, or curated selections.

We distinguish clearly between:

• Photography (an image created through light, camera, and human authorship), and

• AI-generated imagery (images created primarily through prompting and synthetic generation).

What is DES Selections?
DES Selections is a curated editorial program dedicated to photographic storytelling, highlighting cohesive series of images rather than isolated shots. It supports photographers in creating intentional narratives and strengthens the DES community.

Why does it exist?
It exists to give photographers a space to move from strong single images to meaningful series. While many platforms focus on individual images, DES Selections emphasizes coherence, editing, and narrative.

Who curates the selections?
The DES editorial team reviews all submissions and selects series based on visual cohesion, storytelling strength, and alignment with the DES ethos.

Who can submit?
Submissions are open to all photographers. Participation is free but requires website subscription and acceptance of DES terms.

How many images can I submit per series?
3 to 5 images per series. The editorial team selects 3 images for publication.

What type of projects are appropriate?
Series with strong narrative focus, visual coherence, and editorial thought. Projects that experiment and show storytelling intent are encouraged.

Is there a fee to submit?
No. Submissions are free. Fees only apply to invited print development projects.

Can I submit multiple times?
Yes, each series is reviewed individually. Repeat submissions should represent new projects or significant evolution.

How are submissions reviewed?
By the DES editorial team, based on narrative, visual cohesion, and alignment with DES ethos.

How many photographers are selected each month?
One photographer per month.

How is the selection communicated?
Selected photographers are contacted directly via the email provided.

Is this a contest or ranked?
No. DES Selections is editorial, not competitive.

What happens to my images if selected?
Three images from each selected series are featured in the Monthly Selection and included in the redesigned TopBest Magazine (quarterly 2026).

Will my work be credited?
Yes, all selected works include photographer credit and optional links.

Does DES retain copyright?
No, photographers retain full copyright. DES receives permission to publish selected images.

Can my images be used commercially?
No commercial use without explicit agreement.

Will all selected photographers be featured on the website?
No. Website features are invitation-only, representing a deeper editorial engagement.

What does being invited mean?
It signals alignment with the DES ethos and narrative strength. Invitations may include expanded storytelling, mentoring, or interviews.

Does invitation guarantee mentoring or booklet development?
No. Mentoring and booklet development are optional collaborations offered by invitation. Invited photographers participate in the production and editorial costs.

Will the selected series be printed?
All three photographers selected per quarter will have their 3 images in the TopBest Magazine quarterly section (2026).
Beyond this, print projects are by invitation only, optional, and require participation in costs.

What file formats and sizes are accepted?
High-resolution JPEG. Detailed specs on the submission page.

What is the submission deadline?
Monthly deadlines will be published on the DES website.

How long after submission are selections announced?
Within 2–3 weeks after the submission deadline.

Can I withdraw my submission?
Yes, by contacting the DES editorial team.

How often is TopBest published?
TopBest is a quarterly publication, with each edition curated independently.

Are photographers paid?
DES_Photomag is a non-profit, volunteer-based project. We prioritise visibility, print quality, and fair representation.

What is the DES_Photomag Members program?
The Members program is an invitation-based initiative for selected contributors and supporters of the project.

Can anyone become a member?
At the moment, membership is by invitation only.

Orders shipped internationally may be subject to customs duties, VAT, or import taxes depending on your country’s regulations. These charges are not included in the product price or shipping cost and are the responsibility of the buyer.

DES_Photomag has no control over these fees and cannot predict their amount. We are also not responsible for delays caused by customs processing.

We recommend checking with your local customs office if you are unsure about potential charges.

What is the DES_Photomag Members program?
The Members program is an invitation-based initiative for selected contributors and supporters of the project.

Can anyone become a member?
At the moment, membership is by invitation only.