Revisiting "Reader Submissions" and "Amateur Sections" in Eighteen Magazine
At the height of its popularity, 18 Magazine included a section for reader-submitted photos and letters. The magazine was founded in 2004 as a niche publication targeting teenage girls in the United States, but it quickly became an international phenomenon due to its unique combination of fashion, celebrity gossip, and beauty tips. As the popularity grew, the magazine began including sections where readers could submit their own pictures and write in about their experiences. These segments added a personal touch and encouraged a participatory readership that felt connected to the brand. The editorial team curated and edited these submissions to ensure they were appropriate for print, but the inclusive nature of the feature helped build loyalty among young fans.
While some amateur models who submitted photos were later invited for professional shoots—a rare form of talent discovery that blurred the line between audience and content—the main purpose of the section was to provide entertainment and engagement opportunities for readers. The articles often featured candid moments from readers' lives, such as school events or family vacations, which gave them a platform to share their stories with others. This allowed readers to feel like they were part of a community, even if they weren't involved in the glamorous world of modeling or fashion.
In addition to providing a space for readers to connect with one another, Reader Submissions also served as a marketing tool for advertisers. Companies would sponsor contests or giveaways based on certain criteria, and readers would send in entries featuring their products. The resulting exposure helped boost sales and increase brand awareness.
Today, 18 Magazine is no longer in publication, but the legacy of Reader Submissions continues to live on through similar features found in other publications. By giving readers a voice and inviting them into the creative process, magazines can create a sense of belonging and foster lasting relationships with their audiences. And while not all reader-submitted content may lead to major career breaks, it still offers an opportunity for aspiring models to showcase their talents and potentially catch the eye of industry professionals.: