What are notes to editors?
Notes to editors is the block at the bottom of a press release with practical information not intended for publication: the spokesperson's contact details, links to image material, and any interview possibilities. Journalists see at a glance who to reach with questions, without those details ending up in the article.
Written by Timon Hendriks · Last updated on 12 July 2026
How it works in practice
The notes sit at the very bottom of the release, below the boilerplate, under a heading like "Notes to editors, not for publication". They contain the name, role, phone number, and email address of the contact person, a link to rights-free images in high resolution, and, when relevant, who is available for interviews and when.
Make it as easy as possible for the journalist. One clear contact who is quickly reachable works better than three names without a division of duties. Put images behind a plain link rather than heavy attachments that clog inboxes. And list a cell number for outside office hours: news does not keep office hours.
Example
A Colorado childcare organization announces the opening of an outdoor forest location in a press release. The notes to editors carry the communications manager's cell number, a link to press photos of the site, and an offer to shadow a group on opening day. A regional station takes the offer and films a segment on location.
Common mistake
Scattering contact details and image links through the release itself, or leaving them out entirely. A journalist with a question must see in one glance who to call; if they have to search, they pick the next release.
Frequently asked questions
What goes in the notes to editors?
The name and direct contact details of your spokesperson, a link to rights-free, high-resolution images, and any interview availability. Short and practical; it is working information for the journalist.
Are notes to editors published?
No, the notes are explicitly not for publication and newsrooms treat them that way. Never put information there that actually belongs in the article.