Become a
GreatLakes.Art Contributor
We’re building a human-powered field guide to arts, culture, and outdoor spaces across the Great Lakes.
No generic reviews. No AI-generated content.
Just useful observations from people who have actually been there.
What You’ll Do
- Visit places you already know
- Write short, specific Field Notes based on real experiences
- Include at least one of your own photos
- Each note should take ~3-5 minutes.
Why It Matters
We’re building a Field Guide — not another review platform.
Most online information lacks firsthand perspective.
Help document what places really feel like.
What You'll Earn
- Earn $5 per approved Field Note
- Simple, fast submissions
- Opportunities for ongoing contributions
Here's the Ask
(Start Here)
We’re inviting a small group of early contributors to help test this system.
For each approved submission:
- 100-200 words
- 1 original photo required
- Based on a place you have personally visited
- Reviewed for clarity, usefulness, and originality
- $5 paid per approved Field Note
You do not need to be a professional writer.
We’re simply looking for thoughtful observations from real experience.
What is a Field Note?
A Field Note is a short, specific observation that helps someone better understand a place before visiting.
We value useful details people might otherwise miss.
Think: something you’d text a friend before they go.
Good Field Note Examples:
“Best light hits the building in the late afternoon; it’s worth timing your visit.”
“Parking lot was full but turnover was quick, so don’t be discouraged.”
“Small gallery, but the current show is excellent—plan ~20 minutes at least.”
Key traits:
- Based on firsthand experience
- Focused on useful, specific details
- Grounded in a real moment in time
- Written clearly and concisely
What a Field Note is NOT
We are intentionally different from traditional review platforms.
We do not publish generic opinions, promotional writing, or AI-generated summaries.
We are strict about this.
Bad Field Note Examples:
“Great place, really enjoyed it. Highly recommend checking it out.”
[this is too vague]
“This is a small local gallery that features rotating exhibits from regional artists.”
[this is too informational]
“An absolutely stunning and unforgettable experience with incredible energy and beautifully curated works.” [this is too promotional]
Avoid these traits:
- Avoid generic reviews
- Avoid summarizing what the place is
- Avoid promotional language
- Avoid AI-generated or overly-polished
- Avoid writing more than 1-2 paragraphs
Editing & Review Standards
Every Field Note is reviewed before publishing. We edit lightly for clarity, specificity, tone, and usefulness.
We actively edit for:
- Clarity
- Specificity
- Tone
- Usefulness
We may take these actions:
- Tightening language
- Removing filler
- Adjusting phrasing
Important notes:
- Original insight is always preserved
- Edits are made to improve readability and usefulness
- Submissions that don’t meet standards may not be approved
Include One Original Photo
Each Field Note must include one original photo from your visit. Strong photos help future visitors better understand the place.
What makes a strong photo?
Focus on capturing the place clearly.
- The exterior or entrance
- The interior space itself
- Unique features worth noticing
- A real moment that reflects the experience
Think: something that helps someone understand or recognize the place.
Photo Guidelines:
- Must be your own photo
- Focus on places, not people
- Clear, usable, and relevant
- No heavy filters or effects
Register for a free account
Create your GreatLakes.Art account so your Field Notes can be reviewed and credited.
You can edit you visible name and other details in the My Account section.
We request that all paid contributors use their full name, OR their first name and last initial.
Find a place you know or love
Search for a listing you’ve visited recently or know well.
Add your Field Note
Use the Field Note form at the bottom of the listing page. Keep it short, specific, and based on a real visit.
Submit for review
Your Field Note enters the review queue before being published.
Approval or edits
Approved notes are published. If a note needs work, we may request edits or clarify what needs to change.
Get paid
Payments are issued for approved Field Notes, including any eligible photo bonuses.
Ongoing Contributions
After the initial test, contributors may:
- Continue submitting Field Notes regularly
- Focus on specific regions or categories
- Build a visible body of work on the platform