Editor-in-Chief Mary Melton shares behind the scenes at Los Angeles Magazine
April 21, 2016
A group of 19 journalism students from Chicago, Tampa and St. Louis gather to master the techniques used at Los Angeles Magazine which is run by editor Mary Melton.
The Los Angeles Magazine has been running for 60 years, and with the help of Editor-in-Chief Mary Melton, is still going strong. The monthly magazine is printed and available online with content from food to pop culture in Los Angeles.
“My family is in the film business and I organize the year of magazine similar to how a film crew would,” Melton said.
Magazines are started four months in advance; however, investigative journalists can take months to write a feature story and start their stories earlier. Taking the time to make the story as good as possible is important to Melton, as well as taking time off to relax.
“I try to give my staff the weekend [off]. News never stops, but I want them to have friends and family and a life,” Melton said.
To those looking to go into the magazine industry, Melton advises to work up to the top.
“You can stand out by building your resume. Do internships and fellowships. Don’t think you have to jump right to the big leagues. It’s easier to stand out for good work at a local paper than at the New York Times,” Melton said.
Melton also believes in never turning down an opportunity, no matter how small.
“Never say no; no job is beneath you. And if you don’t know how to do something, say yes and figure it out,” Melton said. “Editors take notice in people who are willing to take opportunities and never asking when it’s due, just getting it done. I like when people are like that.” Never say no; no job is beneath you. And if you don’t know how to do something, say yes and figure it out — Mary Melton
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With a world surrounded by technology, print magazine readership has declined by one percent according to State of the Media. However, Melton does not worry about the end of print magazines.
“I don’t think magazine is dying,” Melton said. “People still enjoy the experience of reading and holding it in their hand. Magazine is an experience.”
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