Freelancing and the Decline of Print Media

[Bettedra]

We all know that in recent years the printed page has begun to go the way of cassette tapes, VHS, and beepers. More and more consumers get their news, opinions, and entertainment via the instant gratification of the internet- myself included.

So, for those of you who have been at this long enough to know the difference, how has this change affected the freelancing life? It seems that with so many newspapers and magazines throwing in the towel year after year, there would have to be some repercussions for freelancers. What are they?

[CatMuse33]

I've been in the publishing and writing business since 1992. In my opinion, there is still room in print publications for the "cream of the crop" freelance writers. I don't think magazines like O, Real Simple, Parents and Cosmo are going anywhere. /that's not to say a few top magazines won't fold but, in general, I think we've got a while before the best selling print mags all vanish.

I also see limited opportunities in niche/ hobbyist markets, where the pay might be low, but not as low as content sites, but it gives people a chance to share their knowledge of something they love.

I know I've chosen to adapt my career, but that was also in part to time off due to the birth of my daughter. I do a lot more writing for private clients now, and am doing copywriting for websites, too, as opposed to magazine features exclusively.

I used to make about 75% of my income from magazines and 25% from the Web. Now it's closer to 75% on the Web or with private clients (newsletters, etc... mostly Web-related or distributed via email) and about 25% with magazines. Most of the magazines also have an online component, which may or may not pay. Incidentally, I have not gotten any NEW magazine clients in the past 3 years -- they are all places I've written for, for 10 years or more.

That's my assessment... good question.