Types of content

We work with two main types of contributions:

• News posts are time-sensitive and published first on the website. Some may later be adapted for inclusion in the magazine, but the primary format is short, concise and immediate.
• Articles and features are developed with the magazine in mind, offering more depth, narrative, and visual material.

Word count

While word-count guidelines exist, they are not strict limits. Layout flexibility allows us to adapt the content based on subject matter and available images. As a general guide:

• Short news items and columns: Around 300-500 words
• Factual features and regular columns: Typically 1,000–2,000 words
• Travel features: Usually 1,500–4,000 words, occasionally more when warranted

Tip:  Browse the magazine and see how it is usually done.
Read more: Word-count advice

Structure, tone and aim

News posts and articles

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Use the inverted pyramid This is the prevailing structure for news writing. The most important information comes first—who, what, when, where, and why—followed by background and less essential details. This format is widely used in journalism and makes composing web news posts straightforward. 

Word count is typically 300–500 words.

Read more: Inverted Pyramid explained

Feature articles (for magazine)

At X-Ray Mag, our features aim to offer insights and guidance.

Texts should be concise and to the point, but the narrative should also be allowed to flow naturally and provide space for necessary explanation. The language should be clear and readable—conversational in tone, yet professional in approach.

For travel features, we seek to capture the sense of place and adventure that comes with visiting a location—helping readers understand not just what happened, but what it felt like to be there. We encourage narratives that are both informative and immersive. Impressions, sentiments, and reflections are welcome, as they make stories more personal and relatable.

We also encourage and value the inclusion of highlights on land—such as landscapes, historical sites, culture, people, local customs, cuisine, and other elements that contribute to the full experience of a destination.

More details: Tips for writing articles  

Structure and layout 

Articles should use subheadings, short paragraphs, and, where appropriate, bullet points or breakout boxes. Begin with a short introductory paragraph - a.k.a. subheader or standfirst - that sets the scene and outlines the focus.

Specifics and conventions: Text document structure

Images and illustrations 

We typically request 20–30 high-quality images per article. These should support the text with relevant visuals—underwater scenes, marine life, diver interaction, location, team photos, and equipment. Images must be submitted as separate files and include captions, photographer credit, and licensing information or usage permissions for any submitted images that are not your own. 

Read more: Image requirements

How to submit 

To maintain editorial consistency and quality, each submission should include:

• Main text – Structured as explained above
• Sources – A list of any references, interviews, or data used
• Images – Up to 30 high-quality images with captions, credits, and usage rights
• Supporting material – Maps, diagrams, infographics, or illustrations as relevant
• Fact file – A summary of practical details (e.g. location, dive site, depth, travel, team) where relevant

Submit materials via email or file-sharing service (e.g. WeTransfer or Dropbox):

• Provide the article text in Word or plain text format
• Upload images separately in clearly labelled folders
• Include captions, credits, and metadata in a Word doc or spreadsheet
• If in doubt, we’re happy to assist

Read more: How to submit

Presentation about the editorial workflow:

Notes on AI-assisted word processing

Please be aware that there is a difference between "AI-assisted" tools for word processing and "AI-generated" text.

Acceptable uses of AI-assisted word processing

Secure "AI-assisted" tools may be used to support word processing, limited to:

• Drafting outlines
• Correcting and clarifying text, grammar, spelling, and sentence structure
• Adjusting tone or style
• Summarising or shortening content
• Proofreading

These uses are acceptable so long as the final article is fact-checked, human-edited, and aligned with our editorial standards. Contributors are fully responsible for the accuracy of content submitted.

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Note: Be aware of AI-Hallucinations

AI may generate content that sounds plausible but is false—so-called "hallucinations". These may include:

• Fabricated references, quotes, or book titles
• Incorrect names or locations
• Misrepresentations of facts or events
• Changing the meaning

Read more: Understanding AI hallucinations

There is a difference between "AI-assisted" tools for word processing and "AI-generated" text.

All submissions of AI-generated text must be clearly labelled/attributed as such, and carefully reviewed, fact-checked and verified! 

The editorial staff reserves the right to decline publication of AI-generated text.
 

AI-assisted imagery

Principles and policies

AI-assisted imagery may be submitted for consideration in editorial content, with the following provisions:

• Only "stylised" AI graphs and illustrations (e.g. sketches, diagrams, collages, cartoons) may be submitted for consideration. Only licensed or public domain generic styles may be submitted. 
• Only photorealistic images that are clearly and obviously fictional or humorous in context may be submitted for consideration. Only photo-illustrations compiled with licensed or public domain photos may be submitted. Image source link, credit and licence must be submitted for every source photo.
• AI images must not mislead the reader or mimic real photographic documentation.

All AI images must be clearly credited using the format: [Creator's Name] / AI

Where prudent, clarify the nature of the image in the caption.

The editorial staff reserves the right to decline publication of AI-generated imagery.

For further information and clarification, please email the editorial staff.

Final note

These guidelines are designed to support strong, accurate and engaging content. Used responsibly, AI-assisted tools can aid creativity and efficiency, but they must never replace editorial integrity or misrepresent reality.

Thank you for contributing to X-Ray Mag.